Why Make This Recipe
If you love comfort food, then Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread Bowls is a recipe you will want to try. This dish combines tender, flavorful chicken with creamy Alfredo sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, all served in crispy, delicious bread bowls. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also looks great on your dining table. Imagine serving your family or friends a meal that is both visual and flavorful.
Making this recipe is a fun and engaging way to spend time in the kitchen. It’s simple enough for beginners, yet satisfying for those who have more experience. The combination of the pasta, chicken, and cheese brings a comforting feeling that is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, who wouldn’t want to enjoy a meal served in a bread bowl?
This recipe is also flexible. You can easily change ingredients based on what you have at home or what your family enjoys. Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the mixture, or use different types of cheese for more flavor. No matter how you make it, Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread Bowls will surely become a favorite in your home.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread Bowls
Making Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread Bowls is straightforward. This process might take some time, but the effort is well worth it. Here’s a detailed breakdown to ensure you succeed.
Ingredients
- 3 pieces Chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1 pound Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 6 pieces Kaiser rolls (or more if needed)
- 1 jar Alfredo sauce (about 15 oz)
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, melted
- 3-4 teaspoons Garlic and herb seasoning
- 1/2 cup Shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Directions
Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken cubes with garlic and herb seasoning, along with salt and pepper. Make sure to coat them well for the best flavor.
Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken cubes. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes or until they are fully cooked and have a nice golden color.
Boil the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta into the pot and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. After cooking, drain the pasta well and set it aside.
Prepare the Bread Rolls: Take the Kaiser rolls and slice the tops off. Carefully hollow out the insides of the rolls to create bowls. Be gentle to keep the outer crust intact for holding the filling.
Brush with Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with garlic and herb seasoning. Use a brush to apply this mixture inside and along the edges of the hollowed-out bread bowls. This will add flavor and help create a crispy texture.
Bake the Bowls: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the prepared bread bowls on a baking tray and bake them in the preheated oven for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are lightly toasted.
Combine Ingredients: In the pan with the cooked chicken, add the drained pasta and the jar of Alfredo sauce. Stir everything together until well combined.
Fill the Bowls: Carefully spoon the chicken Alfredo mixture into the toasted bread bowls, filling them generously.
Melt the Cheese: Top each filled bread bowl with shredded parmesan cheese. Return the filled bowls to the oven for another 4-5 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the bread is crispy.
Serve Hot: Once ready, take the bowls out of the oven. You can garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread Bowls
Serving Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread Bowls can be as casual or as elegant as you want. These bowls are great for families who want to enjoy a cozy meal together. Place the bowls on a large plate and let everyone take their own portion. You can serve extra Alfredo sauce on the side for those who love a creamier dish.
For more festive occasions, consider serving these bowls as part of a buffet. You can set up a table with salads and other sides. It’s fun for guests to pick their bread bowls and mix and match with different sides.
Another way to enhance the experience is to offer a selection of toppings. Fresh herbs, extra cheese, or even spicy sauces can add a personal touch. Preparing a light salad as a side dish complements the richness of the Alfredo nicely.
How to Store Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread Bowls
If you have any leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine), storing Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread Bowls is easy. Let the filled bowls cool down to room temperature. Then, wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 2-3 days.
When you are ready to enjoy the leftovers, it’s best to reheat them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the bowls on a baking sheet. Reheat for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps keep the bread crispy, making your meal enjoyable once again.
Tips to Make Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread Bowls
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh chicken and quality Alfredo sauce. Homemade sauces can elevate the flavors.
- Customize the Bread: Feel free to experiment with different types of bread. French bread or sourdough can also make great bowls.
- Add Veggies: You can include cooked spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to add nutrients and flavor to the chicken Alfredo filling.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Make sure the pasta is cooked al dente, so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the Alfredo sauce and put into the oven.
- Check for Seasoning: Taste your chicken and pasta mixture before filling the bread bowls. Adjust the seasoning if needed for optimal flavor.
Variation
The beauty of Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread Bowls is that they can be modified based on your preferences. For a healthier option, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp or grilled vegetables. You can also use whole grain pasta for a more nutritious twist. If you like spice, adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the Alfredo sauce can give it a kick. For a lighter version, try using a reduced-fat Alfredo sauce or a homemade garlic cream sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
What type of pasta is best for Chicken Alfredo?
While penne and fettuccine are popular choices, you can use any type of pasta you like. Bowtie or rotini can work well, too.
Can I make Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread Bowls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken, pasta, and sauce ahead of time. Assemble the bread bowls just before serving to ensure they stay crispy.
With easy-to-follow steps and delicious flavors, Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread Bowls is a recipe that everyone will love. Enjoy this delightful dish any night of the week, and watch it become a favorite in your home!
Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread Bowls
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken cubes with garlic and herb seasoning, along with salt and pepper. Coat them well for the best flavor.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook for 6-8 minutes or until fully cooked and golden.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Slice the tops off the Kaiser rolls and hollow out the insides to create bowls, while keeping the outer crust intact.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter with garlic and herb seasoning. Brush this mixture inside and along the edges of the hollowed-out bread bowls.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the prepared bread bowls on a baking tray and bake for 4-5 minutes or until lightly toasted.
- In the pan with cooked chicken, add the drained pasta and Alredo sauce. Stir until well combined.
- Spoon the chicken Alfredo mixture into the toasted bread bowls, generously filling them.
- Top each filled bowl with shredded parmesan cheese, then return to the oven for another 4-5 minutes or until cheese has melted and the bread is crispy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired, then serve hot.