Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, creamy, and utterly delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Chicken Alfredo with Mushrooms recipe is your answer. It's a classic for a reason, offering a perfect blend of savory chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, homemade Alfredo sauce that will leave you wanting more. Forget takeout – this healthy and delicious dish is ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal quick dinner idea for busy weeknights. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with this easy recipe!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the busiest cooks.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (optional, but adds fantastic flavor!)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pound fettuccine or other pasta of your choice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Magic Happen
Follow these simple steps to create your own restaurant-quality Chicken Alfredo at home.
1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the Chicken and Mushrooms: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic for another minute until fragrant.
3. Create the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens. Stir in the Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses (if using) until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, adding a little pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for Alfredo Perfection
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to a delicious Chicken Alfredo.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh element to the dish.
- Adjust the cheese: Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to your liking.
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to the sauce.
Variations to Explore
- Vegetable Alfredo: Add other vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or asparagus.
- Shrimp Alfredo: Substitute shrimp for chicken for a lighter option.
- Spicy Alfredo: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
This information is approximate and will vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This easy Chicken Alfredo recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It's a perfect example of how delicious and healthy homemade cooking can be. Enjoy!