Indulge in creamy chicken alfredo: a crowd-pleasing treat for 12!

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of chicken alfredo, a classic dish that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. This recipe is designed for a generous serving of 12, making it perfect for family gatherings, parties, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. With its velvety sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs, this chicken alfredo recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup butter
• 4 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the Roux: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, until the mixture is bubbly and golden brown.
3. Add the Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer again.
4. Incorporate the Parmesan Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated.
5. Add the Herbs and Seasonings: Stir in the parsley, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme.
6. Return the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
7. Simmer and Serve: Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Alfredo:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the flavor of the dish. Use fresh herbs, good quality Parmesan cheese, and full-fat milk and cream.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken until it is just cooked through to prevent it from becoming dry and tough.
• Make the Sauce Smooth: Whisk the flour and butter together until smooth to avoid any lumps in the sauce.
• Simmer the Sauce: Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld and develop, resulting in a richer and more flavorful dish.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk or cream. If it is too thin, simmer for a few minutes longer or add a bit more flour.
• Serve with Your Favorite Pasta: Chicken alfredo is traditionally served with fettuccine or penne pasta, but it can also be paired with other types of pasta such as spaghetti, linguine, or rigatoni.

Variations and Additions:

• Add Vegetables: Sauté your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers, and add them to the sauce.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs to create a unique flavor profile. Try using rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
• Add Cheese: Add a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese to the top of the dish before serving for an extra cheesy indulgence.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to give the dish a kick.

The Secret to a Successful Chicken Alfredo:

The key to a successful chicken alfredo lies in the balance of flavors and the consistency of the sauce. By carefully following the instructions and paying attention to the details, you can create a dish that will impress your guests and leave them craving for more.

A Culinary Delight for Any Occasion:

Whether you are hosting a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a delicious meal, this chicken alfredo recipe for 12 servings is sure to satisfy. Its creamy, savory flavors and tender chicken make it a dish that will be enjoyed by all.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Simply shred or cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the sauce at the end of the cooking process.

Q: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
A: You can substitute milk for heavy cream, but the sauce will be slightly thinner. To thicken the sauce, add a bit more flour or cornstarch.

Q: Can I freeze chicken alfredo?
A: Yes, you can freeze chicken alfredo. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator and then heat it over medium heat until warmed through.