Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Ingredients for Chicken Alfredo Pasta

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing the chicken)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 pound fettuccine pasta
1/2 cup unsalted butter (for a rich sauce)
1 1/2 cups heavy cream (for creamy texture)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for flavor and creaminess)
2 cloves garlic, minced (for a subtle aromatic flavor)
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (for a hint of warmth)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added sweetness and texture)

Instructions for Chicken Alfredo Pasta

1. Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a plate, cover with foil, and let it rest. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips.

2. Cook the Fettuccine Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlicand sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Slowly pour in the 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let the cream simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and nutmeg. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little pasta water to thin it out.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. If you’re adding frozen peas, stir them in now and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are warmed through.

5. Add the Chicken

Top the pasta with the sliced chicken and gently toss everything together to combine.

6. Garnish and Serve

Garnish the pasta with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

Cook’s Notes and Tips

Pasta Water Tip: Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water when draining the fettuccine. You can use this starchy water to adjust the consistency of the Alfredo sauce if it becomes too thick.
Grated Parmesan: For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides a smoother sauce.
Chicken Breasts Alternative: You can use grilled or rotisserie chicken for a quicker version of this dish.

Variations for Chicken Alfredo Pasta

1. Vegetable Alfredo

For a veggie-packed version, add sautéed vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or zucchini to the pasta. Stir the cooked vegetables into the Alfredo sauce before tossing with the pasta.

2. Spicy Alfredo

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers to give the dish a slight kick. You can also drizzle the finished pasta with a bit of Sriracha or hot sauce for extra heat.

3. Seafood Alfredo

Replace the chicken with cooked shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist on this classic dish. Cook the seafood separately, then add it to the pasta just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich or creamy. To keep the sauce thick, consider using half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for added creaminess.

2. How do I reheat Chicken Alfredo?

Reheat the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can make the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, but it’s best to combine them just before serving to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick. Store the sauce and pasta separately, then reheat and toss together before serving.

A Classic, Creamy Favorite

This Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The creamy Parmesan Alfredo sauce coats every bite of tender pasta and chicken, making it a dish that the whole family will love. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this classic dish comes together quickly and is endlessly satisfying. Pair it with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal, and enjoy the rich flavors of this Italian-American favorite!