Garlic Herb Chicken Alfredo is a delightful twist on a classic pasta dish, making it an instant family favorite. With its rich, creamy sauce and a hint of lemon zest, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner that feels special yet is easy to prepare.
Olive oil is used to sauté the chicken, adding a touch of Mediterranean flavor. The chicken breast, when sliced and cooked, becomes juicy and tender, absorbing the flavors of the herbs and spices. Garlic infuses the dish with its unmistakable aroma and depth. Salt and black pepper are the basic seasonings that enhance all other flavors.
Dried thyme and oregano provide earthy, herbaceous notes that complement the creamy sauce. Red pepper flakes add just the right amount of heat, balancing the richness of the cream. Heavy cream forms the base of the sauce, creating a luscious texture. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce. Fettuccine pasta is the perfect vehicle for the creamy sauce, capturing it in its folds. Fresh parsley and lemon zest add a fresh, bright finishing touch.
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette. Consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to balance the creamy richness of the pasta. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay, makes a perfect accompaniment.
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced chicken breast. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute, just until you can smell its fragrant aroma. Then, mix in the salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes, stirring to combine all those lovely flavors.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
While the sauce simmers, cook your fettuccine according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, making sure to coat it well with the sauce. Add the cooked fettuccine, tossing everything together until the pasta is well covered in the creamy herb sauce.
Finally, garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest before serving to add a fresh pop of flavor and color.
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