Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Substitutions:
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Substitute Alfredo sauce with a light cream sauce if desired.
Instructions
1. Preparation of Chicken and Pasta:
- Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Ensure both sides are evenly coated. Lightly brush each breast with olive oil to help the seasonings adhere and to promote a crispy exterior.
- Cook the fettuccine pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a little pasta water to thin the Alfredo sauce if necessary.
2. Air Frying the Chicken:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the chicken cooks through while achieving a golden, crispy exterior.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not touching to allow for optimal air circulation. This spacing is crucial for ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and gets crispy on all sides.
- Cook the chicken for about 22-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Halfway through the cooking time, flip the chicken breasts to ensure even browning and crispiness on both sides.
3. Seasoning Varieties:
- While the basic seasoning of salt, pepper, and garlic powder provides a flavorful foundation, feel free to experiment with other seasonings. Adding Italian seasoning, paprika, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before air frying can introduce new flavor profiles to your chicken.
- Different seasonings can enhance the natural flavors of the chicken, complementing the creamy Alfredo sauce. For a spicy kick, a dash of red pepper flakes works well.
4. Combining Chicken with Alfredo and Pasta:
- Once the chicken is cooked and rested for a few minutes (to retain its juices), slice it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Heat the Alfredo sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Then, gently fold in the sliced chicken, ensuring it’s distributed throughout the pasta.
5. Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Chicken Alfredo hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. This not only adds a touch of color but also introduces fresh, vibrant flavors to the dish.
- For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.
Notes
- Selecting the Right Chicken: Opt for chicken breasts of similar size to ensure they cook evenly in the air fryer.
- Temperature and Cooking Time: These are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Adjustments may be needed based on the size and thickness of your chicken breasts.
- Arranging Chicken in the Air Fryer: Proper placement in the basket is key for optimal air flow and even cooking.
- Resting the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest after air frying ensures the juices redistribute, making your chicken moist and tender.
- Seasoning Options: Feel free to customize the seasonings based on your preferences. The versatility of this dish allows for many variations, making it suitable for different tastes and occasions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: Approx. 600 calories per serving
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: air fryer chicken alfredo