Ground Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Highlighted under: Fast Dinner Classics
I absolutely love preparing Ground Chicken Alfredo Pasta for my family on busy weeknights. It’s such a quick and easy dish that combines creamy Alfredo sauce with tender ground chicken and pasta. I usually have all the ingredients on hand, which makes it a go-to meal whenever I need something satisfying and comforting. The flavors blend beautifully, and I always find that everyone goes back for seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to get my kids to eat their dinner without any complaints!
When I first experimented with Ground Chicken Alfredo Pasta, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The key is to use freshly grated Parmesan for the sauce, which adds that beautiful depth of flavor. I also love adding a pinch of nutmeg, as it elevates the dish in ways you wouldn't expect. It’s not just about the chicken and pasta; it’s the perfect blend of creaminess that ties everything together.
Each time I make it, I try to introduce a new vegetable. Whether it's sautéed spinach or roasted broccoli, adding colorful veggies not only enhances the dish visually but also boosts its nutritional value. I never get tired of this dinner, and I bet you will love it too!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Alfredo sauce that wraps around every strand of pasta
- Tender ground chicken makes it protein-packed and satisfying
- Easily adaptable with your favorite veggies for extra nutrition
The Perfect Pasta Cooking Technique
Cooking the fettuccine pasta perfectly is crucial for this dish. To achieve al dente texture, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually between 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking, and once done, drain the pasta but do not rinse, as the starch helps the sauce adhere better.
If you don’t have fettuccine, other pasta types like penne or tagliatelle can work, but adjust cooking times accordingly, as shapes differ in thickness and size. Keep the pasta warm by covering it while you prepare the sauce, so it doesn’t cool down and clump together.
Mastering the Alfredo Sauce
Creating a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce starts with high-quality ingredients. The heavy cream is essential for that luscious texture, while grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor. For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated, as it melts better and gives a smoother consistency.
As you sauté the garlic, watch for a light golden color; this is when it releases its aromatic flavors. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. The sauce should simmer on low heat, becoming glossy and thick after adding the cheese. Stir continuously to prevent clumping and achieve a homogeneous sauce that coats each strand of pasta.
Ingredients
Ground Chicken Alfredo Pasta Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Gather all these ingredients to make your Ground Chicken Alfredo Pasta perfectly creamy and delicious!
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, about 7-10 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, then simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Combine Everything
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted. Add the cooked fettuccine and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your creamy, comforting meal!
Follow these simple steps for a delightful dinner anyone will enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the chicken while it cooks. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream for half-and-half.
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
If you prefer a lighter version of this dish, consider substituting half the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk. Just be aware that the sauce may not be as thick, so you might need to adjust with a bit of cornstarch or flour to help thicken it up.
To increase the nutritional value, you can easily add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas. Just sauté them along with the garlic—if using frozen, add them directly to the skillet and stir until heated through. This not only enhances flavor but also makes the dish more colorful and wholesome.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This Ground Chicken Alfredo Pasta can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep. Prepare the pasta and sauce in advance, allowing them to cool before storing in separate airtight containers. The sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, and the pasta will keep well for about 5 days.
When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help revive its texture. If the pasta seems too dry, drizzle a little olive oil or warm water to loosen it. This method retains much of the dish’s original flavors and textures.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even Italian sausage can work well in this recipe.
→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! You can replace the ground chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a meat substitute of your choice.
→ Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, then combine when ready to eat.
→ What can I serve with Ground Chicken Alfredo Pasta?
A simple side salad or steamed vegetables would complement this dish perfectly.
Ground Chicken Alfredo Pasta
I absolutely love preparing Ground Chicken Alfredo Pasta for my family on busy weeknights. It’s such a quick and easy dish that combines creamy Alfredo sauce with tender ground chicken and pasta. I usually have all the ingredients on hand, which makes it a go-to meal whenever I need something satisfying and comforting. The flavors blend beautifully, and I always find that everyone goes back for seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to get my kids to eat their dinner without any complaints!
Created by: Phoebe Drake
Recipe Type: Fast Dinner Classics
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Chicken Alfredo Pasta Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, about 7-10 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine, then simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted. Add the cooked fettuccine and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your creamy, comforting meal!
Extra Tips
- For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the chicken while it cooks. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream for half-and-half.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 440 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g