Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a beloved classic that brings together tender strips of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxuriously rich Alfredo sauce made from cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. This dish is a staple of Italian-American cuisine and delivers comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Decadent: The creamy Alfredo sauce is smooth, velvety, and full of flavor.
• Quick and Convenient: Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal preparation.
• Versatile: Can be easily adapted with different proteins or vegetables.
• Family Favorite: Appeals to kids and adults alike.
• Restaurant-Quality: Offers a fine-dining experience at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Fettuccine pasta
• Butter
• Heavy cream
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and slice into thin strips.
4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
6. Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated.
7. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
8. Serve hot, preferably with a side of garlic bread or a light salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach make excellent additions.
• Use Different Pasta: Penne, linguine, or tagliatelle can be used in place of fettuccine.
• Lighter Option: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use less butter.
• Seafood Twist: Swap chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood Alfredo.
• Herb-Infused: Add thyme or Italian seasoning to the sauce for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid overheating to prevent separation. Microwave in short intervals if necessary.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can be used. Add it to the sauce just long enough to warm through.

What kind of pasta works best for Alfredo?

Fettuccine is the traditional choice, but you can use any pasta that holds sauce well, such as linguine or penne.

Can I make Alfredo sauce without cream?

You can use whole milk or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, but it will result in a lighter, less rich sauce.

Is it necessary to use freshly grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-shredded varieties.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?

Melt the cheese slowly over low heat and stir continuously to maintain a smooth texture.

Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Alfredo?

It’s not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate and lose its texture when thawed.

What can I serve with this pasta?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables pair well with this dish.

How do I know the chicken is cooked properly?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and there should be no pink in the center.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure the Parmesan cheese and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare and portion it in advance. Reheat gently with a bit of added cream or milk.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a comforting, indulgent dish that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. With tender chicken, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a go-to recipe for busy nights or cozy dinners. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this timeless meal is always a reliable and delicious choice.

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