Chicken Alfredo Recipe With Crispy Panko Chicken

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the creamy indulgence of chicken Alfredo. This recipe pairs the classic Alfredo sauce with crispy Panko-coated chicken, elevating the dish to a whole new level of flavor and texture.

Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a special date night at home, this dish guarantees smiles all around.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and elegance.

The golden-crusted chicken atop creamy fettuccine Alfredo strikes the perfect balance between rich, hearty flavors and a satisfying crunch. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, this recipe is also a perfect way to show love through food. Nothing says “I care” quite like a home-cooked meal, and this creamy, crispy delight is bound to impress anyone at the dinner table.

Let’s dive into the recipe so you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your kitchen!

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Why You’ll Love It

1. Texture Contrast: The crispy Panko chicken adds a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully.
2. Restaurant Quality: This dish looks and tastes like something you’d order at a high-end Italian restaurant, but it’s surprisingly simple to make.
3. Versatility: Pair it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables to create a complete meal.
4. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this flavorful combination of crispy chicken and creamy pasta.
5. Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, like spinach or broccoli, for extra nutrients and color.

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How To Make Crispy Panko Chicken Alfredo

Ingredient List

For the Crispy Panko Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

Optional Pairings

• Garlic bread: Sliced baguette brushed with garlic butter and toasted.
• Side salad: A mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.

Kitchen Tools Needed

To make this Chicken Alfredo with Crispy Panko Chicken, you’ll need the following tools:

1. Cutting board: For prepping the chicken and other ingredients.
2. Sharp knife: For slicing chicken and chopping parsley.
3. Mixing bowls: To dredge the chicken in flour, egg, and Panko.
4. Large skillet: For frying the chicken to golden perfection.
5. Medium saucepan: For preparing the Alfredo sauce.
6. Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
7. Tongs: For flipping the chicken and tossing the pasta in the sauce.
8. Whisk: To ensure a smooth Alfredo sauce.
9. Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
10. Plate lined with paper towels: To drain excess oil from the fried chicken.

More Recipes >>>> Quick And Easy Chicken Casserole Recipe

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Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thinner pieces. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Set up a dredging station with three bowls:
   • Bowl 1: Flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
   • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
   • Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Coat each chicken piece in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it in the Panko-Parmesan mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
3. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
2. Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Add nutmeg (optional), and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

1. Toss the cooked fettuccine in the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated.
2. Serve the pasta on a plate, topped with a piece of crispy Panko chicken.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

More Recipes >>>> Chicken And Rice Skillet Recipe

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Tips and Tricks for Success

1. Thin Chicken for Even Cooking: Slicing the chicken breasts into thinner pieces ensures they cook quickly and evenly, giving you juicy meat without burning the coating.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches if needed to maintain the oil temperature and get a perfectly crispy crust.
3. Fresh Parmesan is Key: Grate your Parmesan cheese from a block for the best flavor and a smooth Alfredo sauce. Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that can make the sauce grainy.
4. Reserve Pasta Water: Save a cup of pasta water before draining. If needed, use it to adjust the consistency of the Alfredo sauce.
5. Serve Immediately: Alfredo sauce thickens as it cools, so serve the dish right away for the best texture.
6. Customize It: For extra flavor and nutrition, add steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted mushrooms to the pasta.

With these tips, your Chicken Alfredo with Crispy Panko Chicken will turn out perfectly every time. Enjoy your delicious homemade meal!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

1. Chicken:
   • Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier option.
   • Use tofu or eggplant slices for a vegetarian twist.
2. Panko Breadcrumbs:
   • Replace with regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or a gluten-free alternative.
   • For added flavor, mix in Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes.
3. Heavy Cream:
   • Substitute with half-and-half or a milk and cream cheese mix for a lighter sauce.
   • Dairy-free? Use coconut cream or cashew cream.
4. Parmesan Cheese:
   • Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano work as great alternatives.
   • For vegan recipes, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
5. Fettuccine Pasta:
   • Substitute with spaghetti, linguine, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
6. Additions:
   • For extra flavor and nutrients, stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
   • Add grilled shrimp or bacon for a protein-packed variation.

More Recipes >>>>> Zucchini Hash Browns With Fried Eggs

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Serving Suggestions

1. Side Dishes:
   • Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy baguette brushed with garlic butter is a classic pairing.
   • Green Salad: Toss together arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
2. Wine Pairing:
   • Serve with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
3. Garnishes:
   • Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper.
   • Add a squeeze of lemon for a touch of brightness.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

1. Storage:
   • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
   • Store the chicken and pasta separately to maintain the chicken’s crispiness.
2. Reheating:
   • Pasta: Heat in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
   • Chicken: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or air fry for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
   • Avoid microwaving the chicken, as it may turn soggy.

More Recipes >>>>> Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe

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FAQ

Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the chicken and Alfredo sauce in advance and store them separately. Fry the chicken fresh or reheat in the oven for the best texture before serving.

Q2: Can I freeze this dish?
After frying, the chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. The Alfredo sauce is best made fresh, as freezing can alter its texture.

Q3: How can I make the sauce thicker?
If the sauce feels thin, simmer it for a few more minutes or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).

Q4: What if my Alfredo sauce separates?
This can happen if the heat is too high. Whisk the sauce vigorously over low heat and add a splash of cream to help it come together again.

Q5: Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Absolutely! Using store-bought sauce is a time-saving option. Just warm it up and toss it with the pasta.

With these tips and instructions, you’re all set to make and enjoy this delicious Chicken Alfredo with Crispy Panko Chicken!

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!