ground chicken alfredo recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
ground chicken alfredo recipe
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The Best ground chicken alfredo recipe

I’ve been making this ground chicken alfredo recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent. I love serving it on special occasions, like holidays or birthday dinners, but it’s also a great option for a weeknight dinner when I need something quick and easy.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s actually quite healthy, despite being a rich and creamy dish. The ground chicken is lean protein, and the pasta is whole wheat, so it’s a great option for families who are trying to eat healthier.

Plus, the sauce is made with Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, which reduces the fat content without sacrificing any of the flavor or creaminess. My kids love helping me make this recipe, especially when we get to toss the pasta in the pan with all the cheese and sauce – it’s a fun job that they take very seriously!

We’ve made this recipe countless times over the years, but it never gets old. In fact, I think it’s one of those dishes that just gets better with time.

The flavors meld together beautifully after a few hours in the fridge, so it’s perfect for making ahead of time or even freezing for later use. Whether you’re serving it to company or just want a delicious meal at home, this ground chicken alfredo recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ground Chicken Alfredo

Ground Chicken Alfredo

4.7 from 812 votes

A creamy and satisfying pasta dish made with ground chicken and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce. This recipe is quick enough for a weeknight dinner but feels indulgent and special.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 550 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken

12 oz fettuccine or linguine
1 lb ground chicken
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Alfredo Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, then drain the pasta and set aside.
4While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5Add the ground chicken and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink.
6Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
7Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet.
8Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
9Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, then cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
10Remove the skillet from the heat and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
11Season with salt and nutmeg if using, then return the cooked ground chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
12Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently with tongs until every strand is coated in the creamy sauce.
13If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
14Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cheese grater

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 550 kcal🧈Total Fat: 35g💛Saturated Fat: 18g❤️Cholesterol: 145mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese as pre-shredded varieties may not melt smoothly. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but the texture will be less rich.

Watch Video Of How Ground Chicken Alfredo Works

This ground chicken alfredo recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re serving company or just want a delicious meal at home.

The leftovers are just as tasty as when it was first made, so feel free to store some in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for a quick and easy meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Chicken Alfredo

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using a high-quality whole wheat fettuccine or spaghetti for this recipe. The whole wheat adds a nutty flavor and texture that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Q: Can I use regular chicken instead of ground chicken?

You can use regular chicken if you prefer, but keep in mind that it will change the texture of the dish slightly. Ground chicken works best because it cooks quickly and evenly.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Make sure to reserve some of the pasta water before draining it, as this will help to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick.

Q: Can I make this recipe without the Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream or half-and-half if you prefer a richer sauce. However, keep in mind that it will increase the calorie count significantly.

Q: How do I store leftover pasta for later use?

To store leftover pasta, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge or can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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