Skip the stress: how to make chicken alfredo in advance for weeknight dinners

Introduction:

When life gets busy, it’s easy to resort to unhealthy takeout or skip meals altogether. But with a little planning, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious meals even on the go. Chicken alfredo is a classic dish that can be easily prepared ahead of time, saving you time and stress during the week.

1. Choose the Right Ingredients

• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results.
• Pasta: Any type of pasta will work, but fettuccine or penne are traditional choices.
• Sauce: You can use a store-bought Alfredo sauce or make your own by whisking together butter, flour, milk, and Parmesan cheese.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
• Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
• Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to cool.

3. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions.
• Drain the pasta and set aside.

4. Make the Sauce

• If using a store-bought sauce, follow the instructions on the package.
• To make your own sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
• Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce thickens.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the Dish

• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Add the chicken, pasta, and Alfredo sauce to a large bowl.
• Toss to combine.

6. Refrigerate or Freeze

• If serving within 2 days, refrigerate the chicken alfredo in an airtight container.
• For longer storage, freeze the chicken alfredo in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

7. Reheating

• Refrigerated: Reheat the chicken alfredo in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Frozen: Thaw the chicken alfredo in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat as directed for refrigerated chicken alfredo.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken or it will become tough.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a little milk.
• If the sauce is too thin, whisk in a little more flour.
• Serve the chicken alfredo with your favorite toppings, such as Parmesan cheese, parsley, or breadsticks.

The Joy of Meal-Prepping

Preparing chicken alfredo ahead of time is a convenient and time-saving way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal. By following these simple steps, you can have a tasty meal ready to go whenever you need it.

FAQ

1. Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of boneless, skinless meat that you like, such as beef, pork, or shrimp.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour to make a gluten-free version of this recipe.

3. How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make this recipe healthier, you can use whole-wheat pasta, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add vegetables to the dish, such as broccoli or spinach.