How To Make Classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Chicken Alfredo Pasta for its creamy, indulgent sauce, the tender chicken, and the combination of flavors that come together in one comforting dish. The Alfredo sauce is rich and creamy, made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, giving it that perfect velvety texture. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta

• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

3. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from the skillet, let rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.

4. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Add Parmesan and Butter: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and butter. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

6. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing it to coat. Add the sliced chicken on top and stir everything together. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Substitutes: You can swap out chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for a vegetarian Alfredo pasta.

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a little heat.

• Lighter Alfredo: Use half-and-half or skim milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Chicken Alfredo Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back its creamy texture. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

How do I make my Alfredo sauce thicker?

To make the sauce thicker, simmer it for a bit longer until it reaches the desired consistency. You can also add more Parmesan cheese to thicken the sauce.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce, but homemade sauce adds a richer flavor to the dish.

How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from separating?

Ensure you’re cooking the sauce over low heat once you’ve added the cream and cheese. High heat can cause the cream to separate, making the sauce grainy.

Can I make Chicken Alfredo Pasta ahead of time?

You can cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat the pasta and sauce, then combine with the chicken.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Pasta?

While the pasta can be frozen, the creamy sauce may change texture once reheated. It’s best to freeze the pasta and sauce separately.

What other pasta can I use besides fettuccine?

You can use any pasta you like—penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti are great alternatives to fettuccine.

How do I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of cheese, or opt for lighter cream options such as half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Can I add vegetables to Chicken Alfredo?

Yes! You can add broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or peas to enhance the flavor and add more nutrition.

What can I pair with Chicken Alfredo Pasta?

A side of garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables would be a great complement to this rich dish.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and fettuccine pasta, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it out and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of this classic dish!