Chicken Alfredo is a rich and creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious Alfredo sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the rich, cheesy sauce creates a balanced and satisfying dish that never fails to impress. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad to complete the meal.
Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounce fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and whole milk. Bring to a simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy (about 3–4 minutes).
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce and toss to coat. Add the cooked chicken and mix well. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on top.
Why You Will Love Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich, creamy flavors with tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. The velvety Alfredo sauce, made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, coats every strand of pasta, creating a luscious, indulgent bite. The addition of seasoned, pan-seared chicken elevates the dish with a savory, juicy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
One of the best things about Chicken Alfredo is its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes, to add depth and flavor. It’s also quick and easy to make, coming together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or an effortless weekend dinner.
The simplicity of Chicken Alfredo is what makes it so appealing. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home without the hassle. Plus, it pairs well with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Whether you’re craving a cozy, satisfying meal or need an impressive dish for guests, Chicken Alfredo is always a crowd-pleaser. Its creamy, cheesy goodness will have you coming back for more!
Chicken Alfredo Tips and Serving Tricks
Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a dinner party, Chicken Alfredo can be elevated with a few expert tips and tricks to ensure it turns out flavorful and perfectly creamy every time.
Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Alfredo
1. Choose the Right Pasta
- Traditional Fettuccine Alfredo uses fettuccine because its flat, wide shape holds the creamy sauce well.
- If you want to switch things up, try using tagliatelle, linguine, or even penne for a fun twist.
2. Cook Pasta Al Dente
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente.
- Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining to help thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
3. Use High-Quality Ingredients
- Butter: Use unsalted, high-quality butter for better flavor control.
- Cream: Heavy cream with a high fat content creates a richer sauce.
- Parmesan: Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
4. Prepare the Chicken Properly
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Season well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Sear the chicken in a hot skillet with a mix of olive oil and butter for a crispy, golden exterior.
5. Make a Smooth Alfredo Sauce
- Start by melting butter over medium heat, then add minced garlic for flavor.
- Slowly add heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid separation.
- Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add pasta water a little at a time to adjust the consistency.
6. Don’t Overcook the Chicken or Sauce
- Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Avoid overheating the sauce once the cheese is added, as it may cause it to break and become grainy.
7. Add a Finishing Touch
- Finish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and chopped parsley for freshness and a touch of color.
- A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the rich flavors.
Serving Tricks for Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich, creamy flavors with tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. The velvety Alfredo sauce, made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, coats every strand of pasta, creating a luscious, indulgent bite.
The addition of seasoned, pan-seared chicken elevates the dish with a savory, juicy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
One of the best things about Chicken Alfredo is its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes, to add depth and flavor.
It’s also quick and easy to make, coming together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or an effortless weekend dinner.
The simplicity of Chicken Alfredo is what makes it so appealing. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home without the hassle. Plus, it pairs well with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Whether you’re craving a cozy, satisfying meal or need an impressive dish for guests, Chicken Alfredo is always a crowd-pleaser. Its creamy, cheesy goodness will have you coming back for more! Warm Your Serving Dish:
- Keep the pasta and sauce warm by serving it in a heated dish.
- Rinse the serving bowl with hot water or place it in a warm oven for a few minutes before serving.
Add a Protein Twist:
- For a heartier dish, add grilled shrimp, sautéed mushrooms, or crispy pancetta.
- You can also mix in steamed broccoli or spinach for added color and texture.
Pair It Right:
- Serve Chicken Alfredo with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.
- A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan pairs perfectly with the richness of Alfredo sauce.
Portion Control:
- A serving size is typically 1 to 1.5 cups of pasta with about 4–6 ounces of chicken.
- For a lighter option, serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Bonus Tip:
For a more decadent texture, mix in a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone to the sauce. It creates a velvety finish and adds depth to the flavor.
Key Ingredients Affecting Nutrition
- Pasta: Adds carbs and calories.
- Heavy cream & butter: Increase fat and calorie count.
- Parmesan cheese: Boosts protein, fat, and sodium.
- Chicken breast: Provides lean protein.
Ways to Make It Lighter:
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Reduce the amount of butter and cheese.
Add more vegetables like broccoli or spinach for fiber and nutrients.
Mastering these tips and serving tricks will ensure your Chicken Alfredo is creamy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced every time!
