Alfredo with Angel Hair Pasta and Chicken is a classic Italian-American pasta dish known for its creamy and rich sauce. Let’s break down all the information you requested:
What is it?
Alfredo with Angel Hair Pasta and Chicken is a dish composed of thin, delicate angel hair pasta served with a creamy Alfredo sauce and tender chunks of chicken. The sauce is the star of the dish, as it’s made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, resulting in a decadently smooth and savory flavor.
History:
The dish is attributed to an Italian restaurateur named Alfredo di Lelio, who supposedly created it in Rome in the early 20th century. The original recipe was much simpler, consisting only of butter and Parmesan cheese tossed with pasta. Over time, it evolved into the richer and more complex dish we know today, especially in American adaptations.
Components:
The key components of Alfredo with Angel Hair Pasta and Chicken are:
- Angel Hair Pasta: A very thin type of pasta, also known as capellini.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh meat, cooked and sliced.
- Alfredo Sauce: Made from butter, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Some variations may include garlic or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a basic recipe for Alfredo with Angel Hair Pasta and Chicken:
Ingredients:
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink in the center, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously until it starts to simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and heat it through in the sauce.
- Toss the cooked angel hair pasta in the Alfredo sauce until it’s well coated.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Preparation Time:
The estimated time to prepare this dish is approximately 30-40 minutes, including cooking the pasta, chicken, and making the sauce.
Enjoy your delicious Alfredo with Angel Hair Pasta and Chicken!
Here are the approximate nutrition facts and some health information for Alfredo with Angel Hair Pasta and Chicken per serving (based on a typical recipe):
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 650-750 kcal
- Total Fat: 40-50 grams
- Saturated Fat: 20-25 grams
- Cholesterol: 150-200 mg
- Sodium: 800-1000 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40-45 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 2-3 grams
- Protein: 30-35 grams
Health Information:
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Caloric Content: Alfredo with Angel Hair Pasta and Chicken is a calorie-dense dish due to its creamy sauce and pasta. It’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.
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High in Saturated Fat: The dish is rich in saturated fat due to the butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese in the Alfredo sauce. Excessive saturated fat consumption can contribute to heart health issues, so it’s advisable to enjoy this dish in moderation.
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Protein Source: Chicken in this dish provides a good source of lean protein. Protein is essential for muscle health and overall body function.
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Carbohydrates: The pasta contributes carbohydrates, which provide energy. However, it’s important to balance your carbohydrate intake with other nutrients and consider portion sizes.
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Sodium: The dish may be relatively high in sodium, mainly from the Parmesan cheese and any additional salt used. High sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure, so be mindful of your sodium intake throughout the day.
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Fiber and Vegetables: This dish typically lacks significant fiber and vegetables. Consider serving it with a side salad or steamed vegetables to increase fiber content and overall nutritional value.
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Moderation: While Alfredo with Angel Hair Pasta and Chicken is a delicious indulgence, it’s not an everyday meal due to its high calorie and saturated fat content. Enjoy it as an occasional treat and balance it with healthier meal choices on other days.
Please note that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. If you have specific dietary restrictions or health concerns, it’s a good idea to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized advice.
