Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our mouthwatering Chicken Alfredo Linguine recipe. Rich, creamy Alfredo sauce perfectly coats tender linguine noodles and juicy shredded chicken, creating a dish that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can bring the flavors of Italy right to your dinner table. So, let’s dive into this culinary delight and satisfy your pasta cravings!
Ingredients:
- 10 oz linguine noodles, uncooked
- 1/4 cup butter
- 3 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 1/2 cups shredded chicken
- 2/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Linguine: Cook the linguine noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add Heavy Cream: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and seasoning. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
- Season the Sauce: Season the sauce with salt and pepper, adjusting the amounts to taste.
- Incorporate Chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the creamy Alfredo sauce. Allow the chicken to heat through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese over the sauce, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine with Linguine: Add the cooked linguine noodles to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them in the sauce. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the Chicken Alfredo Linguine with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy goodness!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Homemade Alfredo Sauce: While this recipe uses a quick and easy method for Alfredo sauce, you can also make a homemade version by combining butter, heavy cream, and freshly grated parmesan cheese in a saucepan over low heat until smooth and creamy.
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and add texture to the dish by incorporating sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes.
- Protein Options: Feel free to substitute the shredded chicken with cooked shrimp, grilled salmon, or pan-seared tofu for a delicious variation.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: To make this dish keto-friendly, replace the linguine noodles with spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles. Use full-fat heavy cream and ensure the Italian seasoning does not contain added sugar or starch. Adjust the seasoning and salt to taste.
- Low Carb Option: Follow the keto option above and further reduce the carbohydrate content by omitting the garlic or reducing the amount used. You can also use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum to thicken the sauce if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, using pre-cooked chicken (such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken) can save time and make this dish even easier to prepare.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the components (such as cooking the noodles and shredding the chicken) ahead of time and assemble them just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftover Chicken Alfredo Linguine?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Chicken Alfredo Linguine in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While linguine noodles are traditionally used for Chicken Alfredo, you can substitute them with other pasta shapes such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti.
Q: Can I adjust the thickness of the sauce?
A: Yes, if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it for longer or add a bit more parmesan cheese to thicken it to your desired consistency.
With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and satisfying combination of chicken and pasta, Chicken Alfredo Linguine is a timeless Italian classic that never fails to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a taste of Italy right at home. Buon appetito!
