Craving something rich, creamy, and absolutely irresistible? This Chicken Alfredo recipe brings that restaurant-quality dish to your kitchen with just a few simple steps. The perfect blend of tender chicken, buttery noodles, and velvety Alfredo sauce, it’s a meal that feels luxurious but is surprisingly easy to make.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo is one of those comfort foods that never fails to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or need a quick weeknight meal, this recipe will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. The key is balancing rich, creamy sauce with perfectly cooked chicken and al dente pasta.
Here’s how to pull it off:
Important Recipe Notes
- Pasta Perfection: Make sure to cook your fettuccine al dente. Overcooked pasta will turn mushy when coated with the sauce. Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture, making for a better overall bite.
- Sauce Smoothness: For that signature silky Alfredo sauce, whisk continuously. This will prevent lumps and create a beautifully smooth texture. Don’t rush this part—patience pays off!
- Chicken Cooking: The goal is to get a golden, crispy sear on your chicken without drying it out. Use medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan. A little breathing room goes a long way in ensuring an even cook!
Proper Storage :
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store any remaining Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s smooth texture—otherwise, it may thicken too much after being refrigerated.
Tip: Alfredo sauce tends to separate when frozen, so it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or reheated from the fridge.
What Goes with Chicken Alfredo?
You’ve got this creamy, dreamy Alfredo—now what pairs with it? Here are some ideas:
- Crisp salads: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the sauce.
- Garlic bread: A crusty piece of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that extra sauce.
- Roasted vegetables: Try roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy, flavorful contrast.
- Wine: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy Alfredo without overwhelming the palate.
Ingredients
For the Noodles
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- Water (for boiling)
- Salt (to taste)
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Sauce
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet, allow it to rest, then slice thinly.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to whisk until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Everything: Toss the cooked fettuccine with the Alfredo sauce until well-coated. Top with sliced chicken breasts.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of cream cheese to the Alfredo.
- Want more flavor? A pinch of nutmeg adds a warm undertone to the sauce.
- For a healthier twist, use whole wheat pasta or add sautéed spinach to the sauce.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 690
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fat: 38g
Other Notes
This Chicken Alfredo recipe is incredibly flexible—swap out the chicken for shrimp or even grilled veggies for a vegetarian version. It’s a versatile dish that adapts well to whatever you have in the kitchen, making it perfect for all sorts of occasions.