This Chicken Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate creamy, cheesy, and indulgent Italian dish. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce come together to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is always a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Creamy and Satisfying: The Alfredo sauce is decadently rich and perfectly coats the pasta.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for any home cook.
- Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults adore this classic Italian comfort food.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced
- Fettuccine pasta (or any long pasta of your choice)
- Butter
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- Garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency. Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the skillet. Toss gently to combine.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the Chicken Alfredo Pasta to serving plates or a large platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and more Parmesan cheese if desired.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and enhances the flavor of the sauce.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t become mushy when tossed in the sauce.
- Don’t Overheat the Sauce: Keep the heat low when adding the cheese to prevent the sauce from separating.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Add Vegetables: Toss in steamed broccoli, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrients.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Protein Options: Swap the chicken for shrimp or grilled salmon for a seafood twist.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Pair this creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta with a crisp Caesar salad and garlic bread for a complete Italian meal. A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta for the best results.
2. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. Add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to help thicken the sauce if using milk.
3. Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Pasta?
It’s not recommended as cream-based sauces can separate when thawed and reheated. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately.
4. What other pasta works for this recipe?
Fettuccine is traditional, but penne, linguine, or even spaghetti are great alternatives.
Conclusion
This Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a creamy and delicious classic that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Serve it up with your favorite sides and enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home!
Print
Chicken Alfredo Pasta – Italian Chicken Pasta
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a classic Italian-inspired dish made with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. - Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for 5 minutes, and then slice into thin strips. - Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring to a gentle simmer. - Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese (if using) until melted and smooth. Add nutmeg if desired for a hint of warmth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. - Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Add the sliced chicken and mix gently to combine. - Serve:
Transfer the Chicken Alfredo Pasta to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add vegetables like steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic and lemon juice before cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1¼ cups)
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 43g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 180mg