This Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a creamy delight that brings comfort to any meal. Tender chicken and fettuccine noodles are coated in a rich, cheesy sauce that everyone loves!
If you’re like me, you might find yourself sneaking bites straight from the pot! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, and it takes just a little time to make—easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine pasta: Fettuccine has that wonderful flat shape that holds onto the creamy sauce well. If you can’t find it, try linguine or even spaghetti as alternatives.
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless are ideal for this dish, but if you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken can save the day. Just shred it and toss it in!
Heavy cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you want a lighter version, you could substitute half-and-half or even use a dairy-free cream if preferred.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is a must for the best flavor. In a pinch, Pecorino Romano or a pre-grated Parmesan can work, but they might change the taste slightly.
Nutmeg: While optional, it adds a warm flavor. If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip it or use a pinch of allspice instead for a unique twist.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Alfredo Sauce?
Making Alfredo sauce can feel tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll be a pro! Start by cooking the garlic gently to avoid burning—this keeps the flavors mild and creamy.
- Always keep the heat at medium or low when adding cream to prevent it from scorching.
- As the sauce thickens, stir in the Parmesan cheese gradually. This helps it melt smoothly without clumping.
- If your sauce ends up too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of the pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Trust in yourself, and you’ll create a deliciously creamy Alfredo sauce every time!
Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
For Garnishing:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Garlic bread, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Chicken Alfredo Pasta recipe will take about 30 minutes total. It’s 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time. Perfect for a quick, yet satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the fettuccine and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This will add great flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and nicely golden brown. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. When the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant and golden.
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Now, pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer, stirring frequently. Let it cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the sauce begins to thicken nicely. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth. If you’d like, sprinkle in a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained fettuccine directly into the sauce and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in a little bit of reserved pasta water to reach your preferred consistency.
7. Add Chicken and Garnish:
Lay the sliced chicken on top of the pasta and give it one last gentle toss. Then sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a bright finish!
8. Serve:
Serve your Chicken Alfredo Pasta hot, alongside garlic bread for extra deliciousness. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
This classic creamy plate features tender chicken atop rich Parmesan Alfredo coating the fettuccine noodles, garnished with fresh parsley and served with crisp garlic bread. Perfect for a comforting meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can use linguine, penne, or even spaghetti if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. You can also use a dairy-free cream alternative if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to keep the sauce from getting too thick.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Broccoli, spinach, or peas are great additions. Just sauté your chosen vegetables in the skillet before adding the garlic and follow the rest of the recipe as usual.
