Chicken Alfredo is an easy dish that brings together creamy Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and fettuccine pasta. This recipe has a rich and satisfying flavor, making it a favorite for dinner time. It’s comforting and can be served up in just about 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love It
You’ll adore this Chicken Alfredo because it’s not only delicious but also a creamy hug for your taste buds. The combination of tender chicken and the smooth, cheesy sauce makes it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, meaning less cleanup afterward!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Substitutions & Key Variations
- Pasta: You can use any pasta noodle like penne or spaghetti if fettuccine is unavailable.
- Chicken: Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein.
- Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce may be less creamy.
- Cheese: You can mix in mozzarella or use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Slowly stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens—about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked chicken and fettuccine back into the skillet. Toss everything evenly in the creamy sauce until coated. Adjust the seasoning and let it cook for an additional minute to warm everything up.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Success Tips
- Temperature: Keep a medium heat to prevent the sauce from overcooking.
- Texture: The sauce should be creamy but not too thick; adding a little pasta water can help adjust the consistency.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid cooking the chicken on high heat for too long, as it can become dry and tough.
How to Serve
Serve Chicken Alfredo hot, directly from the skillet, garnished with parsley. Pair it with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Chicken Alfredo in advance?
Yes, you can prepare everything a day ahead and warm it up when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo?
It’s not recommended since the cream sauce can separate upon thawing. If you do freeze it, reheat slowly to help bring the sauce back together.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can use any cheese you have on hand, but the flavor will vary.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut cream, dairy-free cheese, and a dairy-free alternative for the heavy cream.
Nutrition Notes / Equivalents
This recipe can be a balanced meal if served with vegetables. You can add broccoli or peas for extra nutrition.
Conclusion + CTA
Chicken Alfredo is a simplistic yet delicious dish that everyone will enjoy. It’s easy to make and perfect for any night of the week. Do you want a simple, tasty meal? Give this recipe a try and share your thoughts!
Links to Related Recipes
- Shrimp Alfredo: For a seafood twist.
- Vegetable Fettuccine: Perfect for a variety of veggies.
- Pasta Primavera: A fresh addition with seasonal vegetables.
Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Slowly stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens—about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken and fettuccine back into the skillet. Toss everything evenly in the creamy sauce until coated. Adjust the seasoning and let it cook for an additional minute to warm everything up.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.