Ravioli Alfredo with Chicken

Ravioli Alfredo with Chicken is a comforting and indulgent dish perfect for a family dinner or a special meal. Creamy Alfredo sauce envelops tender cheese ravioli and juicy chicken, creating a rich and flavorful combination that is simple to make yet impressive on the plate. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying and elegant meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

24 ounces cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
2 teaspoons olive oil
6 tablespoons salted butter
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 pinch ground nutmeg
1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups chopped or shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh Italian parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a couple pinches of salt. Cook the ravioli according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with 2 teaspoons of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the heavy cream and nutmeg, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Stir in the cooked chicken and ravioli, carefully tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.
5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately in bowls, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

Ravioli Alfredo with Chicken is best served immediately while the sauce is creamy and warm. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and extra flavor. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid reheating on high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

Variations

1. Spinach and Chicken Alfredo – Stir in fresh spinach while tossing the ravioli for added nutrients and color.
2. Mushroom Chicken Alfredo – Sauté mushrooms with garlic before adding cream for a rich, earthy flavor.
3. Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo – Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, slightly sweet flavor boost.
4. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo – Increase garlic in the sauce for a bold, aromatic taste.
5. Broccoli Chicken Alfredo – Add lightly steamed broccoli florets to the dish for a classic Italian combination.
6. Bacon Chicken Alfredo – Sprinkle in crispy bacon bits for extra crunch and smoky flavor.
7. Pesto Chicken Alfredo – Swirl in basil pesto for a fresh, herby twist.
8. Spicy Alfredo Chicken – Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
9. Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo – Combine shrimp with chicken for a luxurious surf-and-turf pasta.
10. Four-Cheese Alfredo – Blend Parmesan, mozzarella, fontina, and asiago for extra cheesy richness.
11. Lemon Chicken Alfredo – Add lemon zest and juice for a refreshing citrus note.
12. Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo – Puree roasted red peppers into the sauce for a sweet and colorful variation.
13. Creamy Artichoke Chicken Alfredo – Mix in chopped artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
14. Herbed Alfredo Chicken – Add fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or oregano to elevate the dish.
15. Gluten-Free Chicken Alfredo – Use gluten-free ravioli to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen ravioli? – Yes, cook frozen ravioli according to the package directions.
2. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? – Absolutely, rotisserie or leftover chicken works perfectly.
3. How do I prevent the sauce from separating? – Keep heat moderate and whisk continuously while adding cheese.
4. Can I make this ahead of time? – Prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, but combine with ravioli just before serving.
5. Can I substitute heavy cream? – Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, though the sauce will be less rich.
6. How can I make it low-fat? – Use reduced-fat cheese and milk alternatives, but expect a lighter sauce.
7. Can I freeze leftovers? – Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month; texture may slightly change.
8. Can I add vegetables? – Broccoli, spinach, and mushrooms are excellent additions.
9. What type of Parmesan works best? – Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for optimal flavor and texture.
10. How do I reheat without curdling? – Reheat slowly on low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or cream if needed.

Ravioli Alfredo with Chicken is a simple yet indulgent meal that combines creamy, cheesy Alfredo sauce with tender ravioli and juicy chicken. It’s versatile, allowing for endless variations like adding vegetables, herbs, or even seafood to suit your taste. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is quick to prepare, comforting, and sure to impress your family and guests. With easy storage and reheating tips, it’s also convenient for leftovers without sacrificing flavor. Whether served classic or customized, Ravioli Alfredo with Chicken remains a timeless favorite in any kitchen.

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