Contents
Introduction
Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of Sun-Dried Tomato Fettuccine Alfredo, a delightful dish that combines tender pasta, succulent chicken, and a luscious sauce that is bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends and family. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
8 ounces Barilla fettuccine pasta
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 cloves garlic, minced
1½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried basil
1¾ cups 2% milk
½ cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes
3 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, cubed
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions; drain well.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, flipping once, until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Let the chicken cool before slicing; set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Whisk in the flour, tomato paste, and dried basil until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
4. Add Milk and Tomatoes: Gradually whisk in the milk and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture is slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Incorporate Cheeses: Stir in the cubed cream cheese and grated Parmesan until the sauce is smooth, about 1-2 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add more milk as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked fettuccine and sliced chicken to the sauce, gently tossing to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and chopped parsley, if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Sun-Dried Tomato Fettuccine Alfredo!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions; drain well.
Prepare the Chicken
Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, flipping once, until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Let the chicken cool before slicing; set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Whisk in the flour, tomato paste, and dried basil until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
Add Milk and Tomatoes
Gradually whisk in the milk and sun-dried tomatoes. Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture is slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Incorporate Cheeses
Stir in the cubed cream cheese and grated Parmesan until the sauce is smooth, about 1-2 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add more milk as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked fettuccine and sliced chicken to the sauce, gently tossing to combine. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan and chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
Pasta Cooking Tip
Be sure to boil the pasta in salted water to enhance its flavor.
Chicken Cooking Tip
Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
Adjusting Sauce Consistency
If you prefer a thinner sauce, gradually stir in more milk until the desired consistency is reached.
Storage Suggestions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Cook Techniques
Cooking Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil before adding fettuccine. Cook according to package instructions to achieve the perfect al dente texture. Drain well to remove excess water.
Cooking Chicken
Use a large skillet and melt butter over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts thoroughly and cook them until they reach a golden brown color and are cooked through, typically around 3-4 minutes per side.
Making the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt additional butter and sauté minced garlic for enhanced flavor. Incorporate flour, tomato paste, and dried basil, cooking until lightly browned before adding milk and sun-dried tomatoes to create a creamy sauce.
Incorporating Cheeses
Stir in cream cheese and Parmesan cheese into your sauce until fully melted and smooth. Adjust the thickness with more milk as needed for the desired consistency.
Tossing Ingredients
Combine the cooked fettuccine and sliced chicken with the sauce, gently tossing to ensure even coverage. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with other pasta types like linguine or penne based on your preference.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can omit the chicken and add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
You may use different cheeses, such as mozzarella or ricotta, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor and texture of the sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary.
Can I prepare this meal in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Mix everything together just before serving for best results.
Conclusion
Enjoying your homemade Sun-Dried Tomato Fettuccine Alfredo is a delightful experience that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. This dish comes together effortlessly and makes for a satisfying meal any night of the week. The creamy sauce, paired with tender chicken and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, creates a dish that is sure to impress family and friends.
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