Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo with Spinach

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this delectable Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo with Spinach. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests, this dish combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious Alfredo sauce that clings to the fettuccine like a comforting hug. Get ready to elevate your pasta game with this mouthwatering recipe!

Ingredients

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
• Olive oil, for cooking

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil.
2. Season the diced chicken breast with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet.
3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add nutmeg for a hint of warmth, if desired.
5. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the chopped spinach.
2. Toss in the cooked fettuccine and stir gently until everything is well combined and coated in the creamy sauce.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the creamy chicken fettuccine Alfredo and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.
2. For a pop of color, add a few fresh spinach leaves on top.
3. Serve immediately with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Pasta Cooking: Make sure to cook the fettuccine al dente for the perfect texture. It will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce.
• Spinach Preparation: You can use baby spinach for a more tender texture, or sauté regular spinach briefly before adding it to the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables for a delightful vegetarian version.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast in place of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to create a vegan Alfredo sauce.
• Add Some Heat: For spice lovers, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick!

Pairing Suggestions

For a complete meal experience, consider pairing your creamy chicken fettuccine Alfredo with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a refreshing green salad. For dessert, a light lemon sorbet can cleanse the palate beautifully after the rich pasta.

Feel free to share this recipe with your friends, or even better, try it out and let us know how it turned out in the comments! If you enjoyed this recipe and want more culinary inspiration, subscribe to our newsletter for delicious updates and tips.

Further Reading

• How to Cook Perfect Pasta
• The Science of Sauces: Making Alfredo
• Exploring Spinach Benefits

Ready to dive into this creamy delight? Gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary adventure today! Enjoy the comfort and flavors of this Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo with Spinach.