Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Roasted Butternut Squash – A Comforting Twist on Classic Pasta | TastyEra

Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Roasted Butternut Squash – A Comforting Twist on Classic Pasta

This hearty pasta dish combines the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash and tender grilled chicken. It’s a comforting yet elegant meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Fettuccine pasta
  • Chicken breasts
  • Butternut squash, cubed
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Butter
  • Garlic
  • Heavy cream
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Nutmeg (optional)
  • Fresh parsley

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast for 25 minutes.
  3. Season and grill chicken breasts; slice and set aside.
  4. Cook pasta until al dente; drain and set aside.
  5. In a pan, melt butter and sauté garlic.
  6. Add cream, Parmesan, and nutmeg; stir until smooth.
  7. Toss in pasta and roasted squash; mix well.
  8. Serve topped with grilled chicken and parsley.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Use shrimp or mushrooms instead of chicken.
  • Add spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Use plant-based cream and cheese for a vegan version.

Storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, but homemade offers better flavor.

What pasta works best?

Fettuccine is traditional, but penne or linguine also work.

Can I use frozen squash?

Yes, just ensure it’s thawed and patted dry before roasting.

Is this kid-friendly?

Absolutely, the creamy sauce and sweetness of squash appeal to children.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with gluten-free pasta.

Can I add bacon?

Yes, it adds a smoky flavor that complements the dish well.

What wine pairs well?

A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

Can I prep ahead?

Yes, roast the squash and grill the chicken a day ahead.

How do I prevent Alfredo from clumping?

Stir continuously and avoid overheating the sauce.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Not ideal, as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Roasted Butternut Squash is a satisfying and elevated twist on a beloved classic. It brings comfort and a touch of seasonal flair to your dinner table.


Honey‑Glazed Chicken with Roasted Vegetables & Rice – A Balanced, Flavor‑Packed Meal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This wholesome dish offers tender chicken glazed with a sweet and savory honey sauce, accompanied by perfectly roasted vegetables and fluffy rice. It’s a satisfying, well-rounded meal that’s both nutritious and comforting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Chicken breasts or thighs
  • Honey
  • Soy sauce
  • Garlic
  • Olive oil
  • Mixed vegetables (e.g. carrots, zucchini, onions)
  • Salt and pepper
  • Jasmine or basmati rice
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Mix honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
  3. Coat chicken with glaze and set aside.
  4. Toss vegetables with oil, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bake vegetables and glazed chicken for 25–30 minutes.
  6. Cook rice according to package instructions.
  7. Serve glazed chicken and vegetables over rice.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Substitute maple syrup for honey.
  • Add pineapple chunks for tropical flair.
  • Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice.

Storage/reheating

Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat chicken in the oven or skillet; microwave vegetables and rice.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, they are juicy and work well in this recipe.

What vegetables are best for roasting?

Carrots, bell peppers, Brussels sprouts, and onions.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Yes, glaze and grill on medium-high heat until cooked through.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes, it stores and reheats beautifully.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, the honey glaze makes it appealing to children.

How do I keep chicken juicy?

Do not overbake; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I marinate the chicken?

Yes, marinate in the glaze for 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Can I add nuts?

Toasted cashews or almonds add a nice crunch.

What type of rice is best?

Jasmine or basmati for a light, fragrant base.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free version.

Conclusion

Honey-Glazed Chicken with Roasted Vegetables & Rice is an easy, nutritious dinner that delivers on both taste and texture. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal.

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Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Roasted Butternut Squash – A Comforting Twist on Classic Pasta

Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Roasted Butternut Squash – A Comforting Twist on Classic Pasta

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A comforting and creamy chicken Alfredo pasta with a seasonal twist, featuring sweet roasted butternut squash for added flavor and texture.

  • Author: Emma Harper
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop, Roasting
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 oz fettuccine pasta
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes until tender and lightly browned.
  2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and nutmeg until melted and smooth.
  6. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Stir in roasted butternut squash gently.
  7. Top with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

  • You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg
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Jay2559
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