Buttery Garlic Chicken over Fettuccine

A Creamy Delight for Any Meal

Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of this Buttery Garlic Chicken over Fettuccine. With tender chicken strips, a luscious garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Creamy Sauce: A garlic butter and cream sauce that’s irresistibly smooth and flavorful.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to for busy evenings.
  • Family-Friendly: A dish that everyone at the table will enjoy.
  • Restaurant-Quality at Home: Brings the taste of an elegant meal into your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken works well. Add it to the sauce in the final step to heat through.

How Can I Prevent the Sauce from Breaking?

Simmer the cream gently and avoid boiling. Stir continuously while adding the Parmesan cheese.

What Other Pasta Shapes Work with This Recipe?

Linguine, spaghetti, or penne are great alternatives to fettuccine.

Ingredients for Buttery Garlic Chicken over Fettuccine

  • 1 pound chicken breasts (cut into thin strips)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 pound fettuccine pasta
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need the following tools:

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Fettuccine

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce later.

2. Sauté the Chicken

  1. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken and sauté until fully cooked and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.

4. Add the Cream

  1. Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream.
  2. Simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

5. Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
  2. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to heat through.

6. Finish with Parmesan

  1. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook for another minute until the cheese melts into the sauce.

7. Serve

  1. Plate the fettuccine and chicken, spooning extra sauce over the top.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Buttery Garlic Chicken over Fettuccine

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and Parmesan elevate the flavors of the sauce.
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Sauté just until golden brown and cooked through to keep it tender.
  • Save Pasta Water: Add a splash of reserved pasta water to the sauce if it’s too thick.
  • Enhance the Flavor: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a zesty twist.

Variations and Add-Ins

  • Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
  • Swap the Protein: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken for a different take.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute fettuccine with gluten-free pasta.
  • Cheesy Twist: Stir in a mix of cheeses, like mozzarella or Asiago, for a richer flavor.

Storing and Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.
  • Freezing: Freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Perfect Pairings

This Buttery Garlic Chicken over Fettuccine pairs beautifully with:

  • Garlic Bread: For soaking up the creamy sauce.
  • Side Salad: A fresh Caesar salad or mixed greens add a light, refreshing contrast.
  • Wine Pairing: A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the richness of the dish.

Indulge in Creamy Comfort

This Buttery Garlic Chicken over Fettuccine is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich, creamy flavors with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether it’s a special dinner for loved ones or a satisfying meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.

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