Over the years, I have tried to search for new ways to serve simple pasta dishes. Pasta is often an easy entrée that can be made upscale with only a few additions. Rachel Ray published a similar recipe last year, that I adapted and revised. Her recipe called for Gorgonzola dolce cheese and sage leaves. My recipe added chicken and grated fontina cheese. Her inspiration led to a delicious entrée that we thoroughly enjoyed recently.
To prepare the recipe: 
In a large deep skillet add 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon margarine, and saute one package of chicken Tenderloin. As chicken begins to brown, season with salt, pepper and parsley flakes. Next, add 1/2 medium red onion chopped and minced garlic to taste. I added 1/4 teaspoon. Allow to cook about 2-3 minutes until the onion softens. Start the fettuccine noodles (1/2 bag) to boil in a separate pot of boiling water. Boil the noodles 1-2 minutes less than the recommended cook time.
Return to the chicken in the skillet. Evaluate the cooking process.
Add one cup of champagne. I usually purchase a lesser expensive bottle, as the flavor seems to be diminished during the cooking process. I save the more expensive bottles for drinking.
The champagne should be kept at a low simmer with the chicken. Be sure to loosen any bits that may stick to the pan during this cook time.
Prepare to add 3/4 cup cream or half and half. I add the cream slowly while using a flat whisk to incorporate into the sauce. The sauce should be simmering for 6-8 minutes, with reduced heat. Drain the noodles and add to the sauce. Quickly add 1/2 cup of Fontina cheese and shredded Parmesan cheese. Toss with the noodles to cover. Garnish with freshly ground pepper and parsley flakes. This was delicious. Serve with a side salad, and crusty bread for a complete meal. Don’t forget a glass of champagne too!
This recipe made 4 pasta servings.
angel food garden 