Chicken Alfredo is a classic Italian dish that combines tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and pasta. It is a comfort food favorite for many people around the world. However, if you’re looking to put a delicious twist on this traditional dish, why not try making it in an air fryer? Yes, that’s right! An air fryer can provide a healthier alternative to deep frying while still delivering the same crispy and flavorful results. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making Chicken Alfredo in an air fryer, step by step, so you can enjoy this scrumptious meal with a guilt-free conscience.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you get started, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. You will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fettuccine pasta, Alfredo sauce (either store-bought or homemade), grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, butter, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings or herbs you prefer.
Prepare the Chicken
To prepare the chicken for cooking in the air fryer, start by cutting the chicken breasts into thin, even strips. This will help ensure that they cook evenly and thoroughly in the air fryer. Once the chicken is cut, season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings, such as garlic powder or Italian seasoning.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Next, preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature for cooking chicken. This may vary depending on the model and brand of your air fryer, so consult the user manual for specific instructions. Preheating the air fryer will help ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a crispy exterior.
Cook the Chicken
Once the air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned chicken strips into the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. If needed, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook the chicken at the recommended temperature and time, typically around 350-400°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking in the air fryer, it’s time to cook the fettuccine pasta. Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions or until al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
While the chicken and pasta are cooking, it’s time to prepare the Alfredo sauce. If you’re using store-bought sauce, simply heat it according to the package instructions. However, making homemade Alfredo sauce is relatively simple and delivers fantastic flavor.
Melt the Butter
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
Add Cream and Cheese
Next, add the heavy cream to the saucepan with the melted butter and garlic. Stir well to combine. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. You can adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more cream if it’s too thick or more Parmesan cheese if it’s too thin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve
Once the chicken, pasta, and Alfredo sauce are all cooked and ready, it’s time to bring everything together. In a large bowl, combine the cooked fettuccine pasta, Alfredo sauce, and cooked chicken strips. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the creamy sauce.
Garnish and Enjoy
To add some extra flavor and visual appeal, garnish the Chicken Alfredo with freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves. You can also sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve the dish hot and enjoy the delicious twist on this classic Italian favorite!
Final Thoughts
Making Chicken Alfredo in an air fryer is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthier version of this classic dish without sacrificing taste or texture. The air fryer provides a convenient and efficient cooking method that delivers crispy and tender chicken without the need for excessive oil. So, grab your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in this mouthwatering twist on Chicken Alfredo. You won’t be disappointed!