Indulge in a classic Italian-American favorite right in your own kitchen with this incredible chicken alfredo pasta recipe. Forget takeout; this dish is ready in just 25 minutes, promising a quick yet elegant meal. You’ll achieve restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, creating a creamy, indulgent sauce that perfectly coats tender chicken and pasta.
While often considered a classic, the rich, creamy Alfredo sauce popular in the U.S. is actually a unique American adaptation rather than a traditional Italian offering. Learn more about the culinary origins of Alfredo sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This easy chicken alfredo pasta recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights and family dinners alike. It truly embodies simplicity and deliciousness.
- Weeknight Winner: Get a wholesome meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses readily available items you likely have in your pantry.
- Rich & Velvety: Boasts a luxurious, smooth, and deeply flavorful sauce.
- Family Favorite: A crowd-pleaser that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.
- Better Than Takeout: Enjoy fresh, hot alfredo that tastes superior to delivery.
- Customizable: Easily adapt to your family’s preferences and dietary needs.
Ingredients
Gather these essential items for your delightful homemade chicken alfredo:
- For the Chicken:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 breast halves)
- Extra virgin olive oil (for cooking)
- For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (cubed)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 garlic clove ( grated or finely chopped)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- For Serving:
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta (or desired long pasta shape)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)
Notes & Substitutions
You have options for this delicious chicken alfredo pasta recipe! For the richest sauce, always use heavy cream or heavy whipping cream. Feel free to swap fettuccine for linguine, spaghetti, or even shorter shapes like penne. If you prefer, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or tenders work well. Always opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese; it melts smoother and tastes much better than pre-shredded. For an extra kick, a pinch of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes adds depth.
Equipment
You won’t need much to create this fantastic chicken alfredo pasta recipe:
- Large pot (for cooking pasta)
- Large skillet (10-12 inch, for chicken and sauce)
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Cheese grater
Instructions
Let’s make this incredible chicken alfredo pasta recipe! Follow these steps for a perfectly creamy, flavorful meal.
Prepare the Chicken
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Pat chicken breasts dry, then season them generously on both sides with the spice mixture.
- Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Sear for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and a crust forms.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). For food safety, the U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends that all poultry reach a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C).
- Remove chicken from the skillet and place it on a cutting board to rest for 5 minutes. This keeps it juicy.
- Once rested, slice the chicken into ½-inch thick pieces or dice it into bite-sized cubes.
Cook the Pasta
- While the chicken rests, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Season the water generously with about 1 tablespoon of salt per quart of water; this flavors the pasta.
- Add the fettuccine pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until it is al dente (firm to the bite).
- Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. This can help adjust your sauce consistency.
- Drain the pasta thoroughly in a colander.
Make the Alfredo Sauce
- If there are browned bits in your skillet from the chicken, wipe it clean with a paper towel. Add the cubed unsalted butter to the clean skillet and melt it over medium-low heat.
- Once the butter is melted, pour in the heavy cream, add the minced garlic, and the ¼ teaspoon of salt.
- Increase heat slightly to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly with a whisk. Do not let it boil aggressively.
- Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes, until the sauce begins to thicken slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove the skillet from the heat immediately. Stir in the ¾ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese vigorously with the whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Combine and Serve
- Add the drained fettuccine pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Using tongs, toss the pasta thoroughly until every strand is evenly coated in the rich sauce.
- Arrange the sliced chicken pieces over the saucy pasta in the skillet or on individual plates.
- Garnish generously with the extra ¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the fresh chopped parsley.
- Serve your easy chicken alfredo pasta recipe immediately and savor every delicious bite!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Ensure your chicken alfredo pasta recipe is perfect every time with these helpful hints.
- Perfect Chicken: Don’t overcrowd the skillet while searing, allowing for a good crust. Always let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Creamy Sauce: Avoid boiling the cream aggressively, which can cause separation. Keep the heat gentle and whisk constantly for a smooth result.
- Sauce Too Thin? Simmer for a few more minutes over low heat, or stir in an additional tablespoon or two of Parmesan cheese to thicken.
- Sauce Too Thick? Gradually whisk in a splash of the reserved starchy pasta water until it reaches your desired creamy consistency.
- Flavor Depth: Seasoning the chicken an hour in advance and letting it sit helps flavors penetrate deeper.
- Prevent Sticking: Stir your pasta frequently while it cooks to prevent it from clumping together.
- Reheating Tip: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce and restore its creaminess.
Serving, Storage & Variations
This fantastic chicken alfredo pasta recipe is versatile and perfect for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this rich pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for balance.
- Crusty garlic bread is an absolute must for soaking up every last drop of the luscious sauce.
- Offer steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans as a fresh vegetable side dish.
- Complement your meal with a light-bodied white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio.
Storage & Reheating
- Store any leftover chicken alfredo pasta recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth during reheating to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
- Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce can separate and become grainy upon thawing.
Recipe Variations
- Add Vegetables: Stir in blanched broccoli florets, fresh spinach, or sautéed mushrooms with the pasta.
- Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle heat.
- Different Protein: Replace chicken with sautéed shrimp, flaked salmon, or cooked Italian sausage.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh basil, thyme, or oregano added to the sauce.
- Cheesy Twist: For an even richer flavor, stir in a touch of mozzarella or provolone cheese with the Parmesan.
Nutrition
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 850 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Protein | 40 g |
| Fat | 50 g |
| Sodium | 550 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary depending on specific brands and ingredient choices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about making this delightful chicken alfredo pasta recipe.
- Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream? Using half-and-half is possible, but the sauce won’t be as thick or rich, and it increases the risk of separation.
- How do I prevent my Alfredo sauce from separating? Avoid boiling the cream vigorously and ensure the cheese is stirred in off the heat. Use freshly grated Parmesan.
- Can this recipe be made gluten-free? Absolutely! Simply substitute regular fettuccine with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
- What if my chicken is dry? Overcooking is the main cause. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F, then remove it and let it rest.
- Is it possible to make a lighter version? You can try using milk, but it will sacrifice some richness and creaminess. Consider adding more vegetables for bulk.
Conclusion
This easy chicken alfredo pasta recipe proves that restaurant-quality meals are achievable at home, even on the busiest of nights. With its tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and an irresistibly creamy sauce, it’s a dish that truly delights. We encourage you to try this weeknight favorite and experience the joy of a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal. Share your experience and don’t forget to leave us a star rating!