If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal that’s both delicious and satisfying, look no further than Birds Eye Chicken Alfredo.
This classic Italian dish is made with tender chicken breast, creamy alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta; all topped off with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Thanks to the convenience of Birds Eye frozen vegetables, this recipe comes together in just minutes.
Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or cooking dinner for one after a long day at work, this hearty and flavorful dish is sure to hit the spot.
So go ahead and give it a try – we promise you won’t be disappointed!
The Ingredients You’ll Need
As you embark on this culinary journey, let’s start with the necessary ingredients for your Birds Eye Chicken Alfredo.
You will need:
- A pound of fettuccine pasta
- Four tablespoons of unsalted butter
- Two cups of heavy cream
- One and a half cups of grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Next on the list are the star ingredients: chicken breast fillets! You’ll want about three-quarters of a pound or more depending on how much chicken you prefer in your dish. Don’t forget to get some olive oil as well for cooking these juicy pieces to perfection.
Lastly, it’s time to gather up some garlic cloves and fresh parsley leaves. The garlic adds that extra flavor kick while the parsley provides a pop of green color that elevates the presentation of your finished meal.
Now that all ingredients are ready let’s move onto preparing the chicken by following these easy steps.
Preparing The Chicken
To prepare the chicken for your birds eye chicken alfredo, start by washing the chicken breasts thoroughly under cold water. Use a paper towel to pat them dry and cut off any excess fat. Then, season both sides of each breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Heat up some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot enough, add the seasoned chicken breasts into the pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Make sure to use kitchen tongs when flipping them to avoid piercing the meat.
Once done, remove from heat and let cool down before slicing into bite-sized pieces for your pasta dish.
The juicy flavor and texture of this perfectly-seasoned chicken will make every bite of your birds eye chicken alfredo an absolute delight!
Cooking The Pasta
As the pasta boils, it transforms much like a caterpillar into a butterfly.
It starts off as bland and unappealing, but with time and attention, it blossoms into something beautiful and delicious.
Don’t make the mistake of overcooking your pasta though.
Nobody wants mushy noodles that fall apart when you try to twirl them around your fork.
Keep an eye on the timer and taste test frequently so you can catch it at the perfect al dente texture.
Once it’s done cooking, drain the water using a colander and give it a quick rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Then return the pasta to the pot and toss in some butter or olive oil to prevent sticking while you work on making your sauce.
Cooking pasta may seem simple enough, but getting it just right takes practice and patience.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to perfectly cooked noodles that will elevate any dish – especially this birds eye chicken alfredo we’re about to tackle next!
Making The Alfredo Sauce
To make the Alfredo sauce, you will need a few key ingredients. These include butter, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat before adding minced garlic to it. Cook until fragrant.
Next, pour in the heavy cream slowly while stirring constantly. Bring this mixture to a simmer and cook for about five minutes or until it starts to thicken.
Add grated Parmesan cheese gradually while continuing to stir until everything is smooth.
Once your Alfredo sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat source immediately. Allow it to cool slightly before using it as needed. Remember that freshly made Alfredo sauce tastes best when used right away!
Combining The Ingredients
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First, we need to boil the pasta according to the instructions on the box.
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Then, we can start making the sauce while the pasta is cooking.
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Once the sauce is done, we can add the cooked chicken to it.
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We should let the chicken simmer in the sauce until it is heated through.
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When the pasta is cooked, we can drain it and add it to the chicken and sauce.
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Finally, after stirring everything together, the Birds Eye Chicken Alfredo is ready to serve!
Boiling Pasta
Are you ready to cook up some delicious birds eye chicken alfredo? Let’s start with the first step of combining the ingredients, which is boiling pasta.
Boiling pasta may seem like a simple task, but there are a few tips and tricks that can make all the difference in your dish.
Firstly, choose a pot that is large enough to hold your desired amount of pasta while leaving enough room for it to boil without overflowing. Add salt to the water before bringing it to a boil as this will add flavor to your pasta.
Once the water has come to a rolling boil, add your pasta and give it an occasional stir so that it doesn’t stick together.
Secondly, set a timer for 1-2 minutes less than what is recommended on the package instructions. This ensures that your pasta won’t be overcooked and mushy. Taste test your pasta towards the end of cooking time until it reaches your preferred level of doneness.
In summary, boiling pasta requires attention to detail and following these steps will ensure perfectly cooked noodles every time.
Don’t forget to reserve some of the starchy cooking liquid to add into your sauce later on!
Making Sauce
Now that we’ve successfully boiled our pasta, it’s time to move on to the next step: making the sauce. The sauce is what really brings this dish together and can make or break its overall taste.
Start by melting butter in a pan over medium heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will give your sauce a bitter taste.
Next, pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until fully incorporated.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have a rich and creamy alfredo sauce that pairs perfectly with our cooked pasta. Don’t forget to reserve some of the starchy cooking liquid from earlier to help thin out the sauce if needed!
Adding Chicken
Now that we have our delicious alfredo sauce, let’s take this pasta dish up a notch by adding some protein.
Chicken is a popular choice and can be easily prepared while the pasta cooks.
To start, heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides before placing them in the hot pan.
Allow each side to cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or cubes.
Then, simply toss it into your finished alfredo sauce along with your cooked pasta for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Adding The Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables
To add an extra boost of flavor and nutrition to your Birds Eye Chicken Alfredo dish, consider incorporating some frozen vegetables into the mix.
Not only are these veggies convenient and easy to prepare, but they also provide a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.
One great option is to toss in some Birds Eye frozen broccoli florets or chopped spinach.
These nutrient-dense greens will not only add color and texture to your meal, but they’ll also give it a healthy dose of iron, calcium, and vitamin K.
Simply cook them according to package instructions before adding them to your chicken alfredo mixture.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try mixing in some Birds Eye Asian Medley blend or California Blend for a burst of different flavors and textures.
The medley includes sugar snap peas, water chestnuts, carrots, red peppers, and onions while the California blend features broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, baby carrots, and sliced yellow carrots.
Both options are perfect for those wanting to sneak in more vegetables without sacrificing taste.
Serving And Garnishing
After adding the Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables to your chicken alfredo, it’s time to serve and garnish. First, let the dish cool for a few minutes before plating. This will prevent any burns or spills while handling.
Next, scoop desired portions onto plates using a ladle or spoon. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for added flavor and visual appeal. If you want an extra kick of spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top.
Now that your birds eye chicken alfredo is plated and garnished to perfection, it’s time to enjoy! Pair with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a complete meal experience.
And don’t forget to save leftovers in an airtight container for later enjoyment. With these simple steps, you can elevate this classic dish into something truly special.
Ready to take it up another notch? Check out our tips for customizing your dish below.
Tips For Customizing Your Dish
When it comes to customizing your Birds Eye Chicken Alfredo, you can’t go wrong with a creamy alfredo sauce. But why not switch it up by adding a bit of pesto to the mix for a unique twist?
For an extra protein boost, add some grilled chicken or shrimp to the dish. To keep it light, you can swap out the pasta for a veggie noodle like zucchini or squash.
And to add an extra crunch, top with some toasted nuts or croutons. Finally, don’t forget to add some vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or asparagus to round out the dish.
Sauce Selection
If you’re looking to customize your bird’s eye chicken alfredo, one of the most important choices you’ll make is which sauce to use. There are many different types of sauces that can be used in an alfredo dish, and each will have a unique impact on the final product.
Firstly, traditional Alfredo sauce consists of butter, heavy cream, garlic and Parmesan cheese. This rich and creamy sauce adds a classic flavor to the dish while providing a velvety texture. However, if you’re looking for something lighter than traditional Alfredo sauce or if you want to add some more flavors into it, try using pesto or marinara sauce instead.
Secondly, there are also variations like mushroom Alfredo or sun-dried tomato Alfredo that incorporate other ingredients with the essential components of traditional Alfredo sauce. The mushroom Alfredo adds earthiness and umami notes while sun-dried tomato provides tangy sweetness. You may opt for these options if you crave for something new yet still loyal to its original taste.
In conclusion, choosing the right kind of sauce is crucial when customizing your bird’s eye chicken alfredo according to your preferences. Whether you prefer sticking to tradition or expanding your horizons with alternative sauces, experimenting with different sauces would allow you to create a dish that suits your taste buds perfectly.
Protein Additions
Now that we know the importance of choosing the right sauce to customize your bird’s eye chicken alfredo, let’s talk about another crucial aspect that can take this dish up a notch: protein additions.
While chicken is the classic protein for this dish, there are many other options you can explore to cater to your preferences.
For starters, if you’re looking for a leaner option than chicken or want to incorporate more seafood into your diet, shrimp is an excellent choice. The mild and sweet flavor of shrimp pairs well with Alfredo sauce while adding some texture and color contrast to the dish. You may also consider using scallops or crab meat as alternatives.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different types of meat like bacon or prosciutto. Adding these salty and savory meats will give your dish a unique twist while complementing the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
For vegetarians, tofu or tempeh are viable substitutes that offer a chewy texture and absorbent properties.
In conclusion, don’t be afraid to mix things up by incorporating different proteins in your bird’s eye chicken alfredo dish. Whether it’s sticking with tradition by using chicken or exploring new horizons with seafood or alternative meats, customizing your dish according to personal taste preferences enhances its overall experience.
Vegetable Choices
Now that we’ve talked about protein choices for your bird’s eye chicken alfredo, let’s move on to another crucial aspect of customizing this dish: vegetable additions. Vegetables not only add color and texture but also provide essential nutrients that balance out the richness of Alfredo sauce.
One classic vegetable choice is broccoli, which pairs well with the creamy sauce while adding some crunchiness to the dish. You may also consider using spinach or asparagus for a more delicate flavor profile.
If you prefer something heartier, mushrooms are an excellent option. They have a meaty texture and earthy taste that complements the creaminess of Alfredo sauce. Alternatively, roasted red peppers can add some sweetness and tanginess to your dish.
For those who like it spicy, jalapenos or chili flakes could be added for an extra kick. Onions or garlic also offer some depth in flavor if used moderately.
Incorporating vegetables into your bird’s eye chicken alfredo is an easy way to elevate its nutritional value while creating a visually appealing plate. So don’t shy away from experimenting with different veggie combinations according to personal taste preferences!
Impress Your Guests With This Delicious Recipe
As the saying goes, ‘the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach,’ and what better way to impress your guests than with a delicious meal?
One recipe that is sure to please everyone at the table is birds eye chicken alfredo. This classic Italian dish consists of tender chicken, creamy alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Not only is it easy to make, but it also looks impressive when served.
To start off this mouth-watering dish, gather all the necessary ingredients such as boneless chicken breasts, heavy cream, parmesan cheese and garlic. Cook the chicken in olive oil until browned on both sides before adding minced garlic into the pan for some added flavor.
Next, mix in heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese until you have a smooth sauce. Finally, add cooked pasta into the same pan along with some frozen broccoli florets from Birds Eye for an extra touch of greenery.
Once everything is mixed together and heated throughly, transfer onto plates or bowls and serve while still hot. Your guests will be amazed by how quickly you were able to whip up such a delicious meal!
The combination of savory chicken with rich alfredo sauce and hearty pasta makes for a filling yet satisfying dinner that everyone will enjoy.
In conclusion, if you want to impress your guests with a quick and tasty dinner option then look no further than birds eye chicken alfredo. With simple ingredients that are easily accessible at any grocery store and minimal prep time required, this recipe is perfect for those who want to spend more time enjoying their company rather than being stuck in the kitchen all night long. So why not give it a try next time you’re hosting friends or family over for dinner?
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Servings Does This Recipe Make?
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for serving at family gatherings or dinner parties.
You may be wondering how many servings it makes, and the answer depends on your appetite and the size of your portions.
However, as a general guideline, this recipe should serve about four to six people.
Don’t worry if you have leftovers because chicken alfredo tastes just as good reheated the next day!
Can I Use Fresh Vegetables Instead Of Frozen?
Imagine a colorful garden, bursting with fresh vegetables just waiting to be picked.
Now, back to the kitchen – you may be wondering if those same vibrant veggies can replace the frozen ones in your recipe.
The answer is yes!
While frozen produce has its advantages, using fresh ingredients can elevate the taste and texture of your dish.
So go ahead and add some crisp bell peppers or tender asparagus to your next meal – your taste buds will thank you for it.
Can I Substitute The Chicken For Shrimp Or Tofu?
Yes, you can definitely substitute the chicken for shrimp or tofu in this dish.
Shrimp will provide a similar meaty texture and add a seafood flavor to the alfredo sauce.
On the other hand, using tofu as a vegetarian option will give you a creamy protein source that is low in fat and high in nutrients.
Simply sauté your chosen ingredient with some olive oil and garlic before adding it into the Alfredo pasta mix.
It’s an easy swap that allows you to customize this classic recipe based on your dietary preferences and taste buds!
Can I Use A Different Type Of Pasta Instead Of Fettuccine?
As the saying goes, variety is the spice of life – and that includes pasta dishes. So, can you switch up your fettuccine for something else in your chicken alfredo recipe? Absolutely!
While fettuccine is a classic choice for this dish, it’s not the only option available to you. Experiment with other types of pasta such as linguine or spaghetti to give your meal a unique twist.
Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly and enjoy trying out new flavors in your favorite recipes.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers In The Refrigerator?
Leftovers can be a great way to save time and money, but it’s important to know how long they can last in the refrigerator.
Generally, cooked food should not be stored for more than four days in the fridge. This includes pasta dishes like chicken alfredo, which can be delicious as leftovers if properly stored.
Make sure to transfer any leftovers into an airtight container before placing them in the fridge. When reheating, ensure that the dish is heated through thoroughly and always use safe cooking practices to prevent foodborne illnesses.
While it may be tempting to keep those tasty leftovers around for longer, it’s best to err on the side of caution when it comes to food safety.
Conclusion
Overall, Birds Eye Chicken Alfredo is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that can satisfy your cravings for Italian cuisine. This recipe yields around four servings, making it perfect for a small family or group of friends.
If you prefer fresh vegetables over frozen ones, feel free to make the switch – just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly. For those looking to mix up their protein options, shrimp or tofu would be excellent substitutes for chicken in this dish. And if fettuccine isn’t your preferred noodle shape, there’s no harm in trying out something different like linguine or penne.
Just remember to store any leftovers properly in the refrigerator for up to three days before reheating. In conclusion, Birds Eye Chicken Alfredo offers a comforting and satisfying meal option that is simple enough for even novice cooks. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken pieces, it’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
As the saying goes, ‘The proof is in the pudding,’ so give this recipe a try and see for yourself how tasty it truly is!