The Ultimate Comfort Food: Chicken Alfredo Made With Elbow Noodles!

Chicken Alfredo, a classic Italian-American dish, is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that is enjoyed by many. While traditionally made with fettuccine noodles, many home cooks wonder if they can use elbow noodles instead. The answer is yes, you can make chicken Alfredo with elbow noodles, and it can be just as delicious as the original.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1 (16 ounce) package elbow noodles
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow noodles according to the package directions. Drain the noodles and set aside.

2. Shred the chicken: While the noodles are cooking, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.

3. Make the Alfredo sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened.

4. Season the sauce: Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to the sauce and stir to combine.

5. Combine the ingredients: Add the cooked chicken and elbow noodles to the Alfredo sauce and stir to coat.

6. Serve: Serve the chicken Alfredo immediately, topped with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Alfredo with Elbow Noodles:

• Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly affect the taste of your dish. Use fresh chicken, good-quality Parmesan cheese, and whole milk for the best results.

• Don’t overcook the sauce: The Alfredo sauce should be thick and creamy, but not too thick. Cook it until it has thickened to your desired consistency, but don’t let it boil.

• Adjust the seasonings to taste: The seasonings in this recipe can be adjusted to your preference. Add more salt and pepper if desired, or add a dash of garlic powder or Italian seasoning.

• Serve with your favorite sides: Chicken Alfredo with elbow noodles can be served with a variety of sides, such as garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.

Variations on the Classic Recipe:

• Add vegetables: Sautéed vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms, can be added to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Use different types of pasta: While elbow noodles are a classic choice, you can also use other types of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or spaghetti.

• Make a creamy Alfredo sauce: For a richer sauce, add 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the Alfredo sauce.

• Add a grilled chicken topping: Grill some chicken breasts and slice them to top the chicken Alfredo.

Benefits of Using Elbow Noodles in Chicken Alfredo:

• Elbow noodles hold the sauce well: The small, curved shape of elbow noodles allows them to hold the Alfredo sauce better than some other types of pasta.

• Elbow noodles are affordable: Elbow noodles are one of the most affordable types of pasta, making them a budget-friendly option for chicken Alfredo.

• Elbow noodles cook quickly: Elbow noodles cook in a matter of minutes, making them a quick and easy choice for a weeknight meal.

Takeaways:

So, can you make chicken Alfredo with elbow noodles? Absolutely! Elbow noodles are a great choice for this dish, providing a delicious and affordable alternative to traditional fettuccine noodles. With a few simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can enjoy a creamy and flavorful chicken Alfredo with elbow noodles in no time.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I use other types of pasta besides elbow noodles?
A: Yes, you can use other types of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or spaghetti. However, elbow noodles are the most traditional choice and hold the sauce best.

Q: How can I make the Alfredo sauce thicker?
A: To thicken the Alfredo sauce, simmer it for longer or add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water).

Q: Can I freeze chicken Alfredo?
A: Yes, you can freeze chicken Alfredo for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing, and reheat it over medium heat when ready to serve.