Name: Crispy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4-6 thinly sliced chicken breasts (cutlets); ½ cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, whisked; 2 cups panko bread crumbs; ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1½ teaspoons garlic powder; 1½ teaspoons onion powder; 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Vegetable oil, for frying (about 1 cup); 1 pound fettuccine pasta; 2 cups heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 garlic cloves, finely minced; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup reserved pasta cooking water; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe

Crispy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is more than just a dinner—it’s a comforting, flavor-packed experience that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I know how hectic life can get, especially for busy moms and professionals. This creamy delight is a quick solution for those days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen.

With golden, crispy chicken cutlets atop luscious fettuccine, this dish brings both elegance and comfort to the table. The rich Alfredo sauce clings to every strand of pasta, creating a satisfying bite from start to finish. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Crispy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo intro — Crispy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

This Crispy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It’s quick to prepare, taking just about 50 minutes from start to finish. The creamy sauce clings to the pasta, while the crispy chicken adds a delightful crunch. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Your family will be asking for seconds, and you’ll love how easy it is to whip up this comforting dish.

Ingredients for Crispy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Thinly sliced chicken breasts: These cutlets are the star of the show, providing that crispy texture we all crave.
All-purpose flour: This is essential for dredging the chicken, helping the egg and panko adhere perfectly.
Large eggs: Whisked eggs create a binding layer that ensures the breading sticks to the chicken.
Panko bread crumbs: These Japanese-style crumbs give the chicken its delightful crunch. They’re lighter and crispier than regular bread crumbs.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A must for both the chicken and the sauce, adding a rich, nutty flavor.
Garlic powder: This adds a savory depth to the breading, enhancing the overall flavor.
Onion powder: A subtle sweetness that complements the garlic and adds complexity.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a taste of Italy to your dish.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
Vegetable oil: Used for frying, it helps achieve that golden-brown perfection.
Fettuccine pasta: The perfect pasta choice for this creamy sauce, it holds onto the Alfredo beautifully.
Heavy cream: This is the base of your Alfredo sauce, creating that rich, creamy texture.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps to create a silky sauce.
Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic elevates the flavor of the sauce, making it aromatic and delicious.
Reserved pasta cooking water: This starchy water helps to adjust the sauce’s consistency, making it cling to the pasta.

For those looking to add a twist, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk for extra flavor or tossing in some veggies like broccoli or peas for added nutrition. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

Crispy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo ingredients

How to Make Crispy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

Start by seasoning the thinly sliced chicken cutlets with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor of the chicken, ensuring every bite is delicious. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it’s the foundation of your crispy chicken!

Set Up the Breading Station

Create a breading station by arranging three bowls. In the first bowl, place all-purpose flour. In the second, whisk the eggs until smooth. Finally, in the third bowl, mix panko bread crumbs with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This setup makes breading a breeze!

Bread the Chicken

Now it’s time to bread the chicken! Dredge each cutlet in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the whisked eggs, allowing the egg to coat the chicken. Finally, press the cutlet into the panko mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered for that perfect crunch.

Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken cutlets. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels to keep it crispy.

Cook the Fettuccine

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. This starchy water will help create a silky sauce!

Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same pot, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the reserved pasta cooking water and freshly grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce, tossing gently to coat every strand. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This is where the magic happens, as the pasta absorbs all that creamy goodness!

Serve the Dish

To serve, plate the fettuccine Alfredo and top it generously with the crispy chicken cutlets. You can sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for a finishing touch. Enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Crispy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo how to make

Tips for Success

For extra crunch, let the breaded chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying.
Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at 350°F for perfect frying.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches for even cooking.
Adjust the thickness of the Alfredo sauce with more reserved pasta water if needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor!

Equipment Needed

Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders for frying the chicken.
Pot: A big pot for boiling the fettuccine; a Dutch oven is a great alternative.
Three bowls: For the breading station; any mixing bowls will do.
Whisk: To beat the eggs; a fork can work in a pinch.
Meat thermometer: Optional, but helpful for checking chicken doneness.

Variations

Vegetable Additions: Toss in steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach for a nutritious boost.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a bit of heat.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh basil or parsley into the sauce for a burst of freshness.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a classic pairing.
Salad: A fresh Caesar or mixed greens salad adds a refreshing crunch.
Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio for a delightful complement.
Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for a beautiful finish.

FAQs about Crispy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Can I make Crispy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just reheat them gently before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep!

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the Alfredo sauce?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Of course! While fettuccine is traditional, you can use any pasta you love, like penne or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is this dish suitable for kids?

Yes! Kids usually love the crispy chicken and creamy pasta. You can even sneak in some veggies to make it a bit healthier without them noticing!

Final Thoughts

Cooking Crispy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The joy of watching your family savor each bite, the laughter shared over a delicious dish, and the satisfaction of knowing you made it all from scratch is truly priceless. This recipe is a reminder that even on the busiest days, you can whip up something special that brings everyone together. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and enjoy the delightful experience of making this creamy, comforting dish. Happy cooking! Learn more about Fettuccine Alfredo and its Italian-American origins.

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