Master the art of crowd-pleasing: our easy and delicious chicken alfredo recipe for 200 guests
What To Know
- If serving over an extended period, place the chicken alfredo in a chafing dish to keep it warm.
- Use a large stockpot or commercial pasta cooker for the noodles, and a large roasting pan or multiple oven-safe dishes for the chicken.
- End the meal on a sweet note with a dessert that balances the savory flavors of the chicken alfredo.
- 50 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 20 pounds fettuccine noodles
- 10 gallons heavy cream
- 5 pounds grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 pounds butter
- 1 cup minced garlic
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken breasts in a large roasting pan and season generously with salt and pepper. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until cooked through. Let cool slightly, then shred.
2. Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine noodles and cook according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant. Gradually whisk in heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until sauce has thickened.
4. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, shredded chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Stir until well combined.
5. Add Parmesan Cheese: Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve Immediately: Transfer chicken alfredo to a large serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with bread or salad.
Tips for Success:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh chicken breasts, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
- Cook the Chicken Thoroughly: Make sure the chicken is cooked through before shredding to avoid any food safety concerns.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Al dente noodles will hold up better in the sauce and prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Season to Taste: Taste the sauce as you cook and adjust the seasonings as needed.
- Keep Warm: If serving over an extended period, place the chicken alfredo in a chafing dish to keep it warm.
Scaling Up for 200 Guests:
- Ingredients: Multiply all ingredient quantities by 4.
- Cooking Equipment: Use a large stockpot or commercial pasta cooker for the noodles, and a large roasting pan or multiple oven-safe dishes for the chicken.
- Serving: Set up multiple serving stations to avoid long lines.
- Storage: If not serving immediately, store the chicken alfredo in large containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Sautéed mushrooms, broccoli, or bell peppers can be added to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use Different Pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or other short-cut pasta can be used instead of fettuccine.
- Make a Creamy Pesto Sauce: Add a cup of basil pesto to the Alfredo sauce for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Top with Crispy Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs over the chicken alfredo before serving for a crunchy topping.
Serving Suggestions:
- Bread: Crusty bread, garlic bread, or focaccia are perfect for dipping into the rich Alfredo sauce.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can complement the creamy chicken alfredo.
- Fruit: Fresh fruit, such as grapes or berries, can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory dish.
Ending the Feast:
A Sweet Finale: End the meal on a sweet note with a dessert that balances the savory flavors of the chicken alfredo. Consider serving a fruit tart, chocolate cake, or tiramisu.
Coffee and Tea: Offer coffee or tea to guests as they finish their meal. This will help them digest and provide a relaxing end to the gathering.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them completely before roasting.
Q: What if I don’t have a roasting pan?
A: You can use a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper instead.
Q: How long can I store the chicken alfredo?
A: The chicken alfredo can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
Q: Can I make the chicken alfredo ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the chicken alfredo ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just make sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.
Q: What is the best way to reheat the chicken alfredo?
A: The best way to reheat the chicken alfredo is to place it in a saucepan over low heat and stir occasionally until warmed through.
