Name: Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil; 2 (6- to 8-oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Kosher salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups whole milk; 8 oz. fettuccine; 2 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about 1 cup); 3/4 cup heavy cream; Finely chopped fresh parsley, for serving

If you are craving a dish that wraps you in comfort with every bite, this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine perfectly cooked fettuccine swimming in a rich, velvety sauce, loaded with tender slices of golden chicken and enriched with Parmesan and cream. This recipe balances simple ingredients to create a delicious, hearty meal that feels indulgent but comes together with surprising ease. It’s the kind of dish that warms the soul and makes any night feel special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two raw chicken pieces placed in the center of a white plate, surrounded by ingredients for cooking. To the left of the plate lies a partly opened box of spaghetti pasta, showing the yellow noodles inside. On the bottom left corner is a small clear glass bowl filled with grated cheese. Below the plate is a tiny glass bowl holding minced garlic. Above the plate, there is a glass measuring cup filled with milk, and diagonally to the right of this cup is another glass measuring cup containing broth. Next to the broth cup is a bunch of fresh green parsley. Finally, near the bottom right of the plate, another smaller glass measuring cup holds cream. All items are arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each bringing something wonderful to the table—from the richness of heavy cream and Parmesan to the fresh notes of garlic and parsley. Together, they form the foundation of this luscious pasta dish with creamy texture and satisfying flavor.

Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps create that beautiful golden crust on the chicken.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein providing a tender, juicy bite once perfectly cooked and sliced.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
Freshly ground black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and depth without overpowering the creaminess.
Garlic cloves, finely chopped: Bring aromatic warmth that infuses the sauce with irresistible flavor.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds savory moisture and helps create a silky sauce base without overwhelming saltiness.
Whole milk: Balances richness while keeping the sauce smooth and creamy.
Fettuccine: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto every bit of that luscious Alfredo sauce.
Parmesan, finely grated: Offers nutty, salty notes that melt beautifully into the sauce for that classic Alfredo taste.
Heavy cream: Ampes up the sauce’s decadence, giving it that signature thick and creamy texture.
Fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds a bright, fresh contrast and a pop of color at the end.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Perfection

Heat extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken breasts seasoned generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook the chicken, turning occasionally, until both sides are golden brown and an instant-read thermometer reads 165° inside. This step locks in moisture and flavor, so don’t rush it. Once done, transfer the chicken to a board and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Resting keeps the chicken juicy and tender.

Step 2: Build the Flavorful Sauce Base

Into the same skillet, add finely chopped garlic, low-sodium chicken broth, and whole milk. Season lightly with salt and pepper and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. The beauty here is using the pan juices from the chicken to deepen the sauce’s flavor while the milk adds creaminess without overwhelming richness. This simmer is your foundation for that dreamy Alfredo sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Fettuccine Right in the Sauce

Add the fettuccine directly to the skillet. Stir frequently as it cooks to prevent sticking and allow the pasta to absorb those delicious flavors. After 3 minutes, the sauce should start to reduce slightly. Continue cooking and tossing occasionally until the fettuccine is perfectly al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes. This method infuses the noodles with flavor in a way boiling pasta separately never achieves.

Step 4: Make It Creamy and Rich

Once the pasta is tender, stir in the finely grated Parmesan and heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and wonderfully thickened—this will take about 3 more minutes. The Parmesan melts into the cream, creating that signature silky texture you want from any top-notch Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe. Keep stirring occasionally here to avoid sticking and ensure everything blends perfectly.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the sliced chicken, letting the warmth bring everything together harmoniously. Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley on top for that inviting pop of color and a touch of fresh brightness. Your meal is now ready to serve and delight your taste buds.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Two sliced, golden-brown cooked chicken pieces are placed on top of long, thick noodles that are covered in a creamy light beige sauce. The dish sits in a round metal pan, with the noodles partly visible beneath the chicken, showing a smooth, rich texture mixed with the sauce. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finely chopped fresh parsley is a must — not just for color but to cut through the richness with its fresh herbal notes. You might also add an extra dusting of Parmesan or a few twists of freshly ground black pepper for that finishing touch. If you want to push it further, a squeeze of fresh lemon can add a lively brightness that complements the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or an assortment of roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also works wonders to soak up the remaining Alfredo sauce because, frankly, you don’t want a drop to go to waste!

Creative Ways to Present

Serving this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe in shallow white bowls makes the creamy sauce pop visually. For a fun twist, try layering the pasta on a large platter, topping with chicken slices, and sprinkling chopped parsley and grated cheese for a family-style presentation. Alternatively, create individual portions in small gratin dishes topped with a breadcrumb crust and bake briefly for a crunchy surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken in the fridge, so giving it a gentle stir with a splash of milk or cream before reheating will help bring back that silky texture.

Freezing

Because Alfredo sauce is dairy-based, freezing isn’t ideal as the texture can separate upon thawing. However, if you do freeze the prepared dish, use a freezer-friendly container and consume it within one month for best quality. Thaw slowly overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent sauce from breaking or pasta from sticking. A splash of milk or broth can help loosen the sauce as it warms. Microwave reheating works too but be sure to do it in short intervals, stirring in between to keep the sauce creamy and even.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is classic for Alfredo, you can use linguine, penne, or even farfalle. Just keep an eye on cooking times and sauce absorption to maintain that perfect balance of texture and creaminess.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream and milk with unsweetened plant-based alternatives like cashew cream or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast to achieve a similar flavor and texture. Keep in mind the dish’s richness will differ but still be delicious.

How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

Try marinating your chicken breasts in garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking, or season with Italian seasoning and paprika. This adds an extra layer of taste that complements the creamy Alfredo nicely.

Can I prepare this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce base in advance, then store them separately in the fridge. When ready, combine everything, cook the pasta fresh, and assemble the dish to enjoy maximum flavor and freshness.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp Chardonnay or a lightly oaked white wine is a fantastic match for the creamy, cheesy richness of Chicken Alfredo. If you prefer red, a lighter Pinot Noir with gentle tannins works well without overpowering the dish.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe is truly a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it hits all the right notes of comfort, richness, and satisfying flavor. So go ahead, gather these simple ingredients, follow these steps, and savor a homemade dinner that feels gourmet but is ready in just about 30 minutes. I can’t wait for you to make it a new favorite!

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need