Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

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This creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a family favorite because it’s quick to make and always delicious. It’s great for a cozy dinner or a busy day!

I made this Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo just 2 days ago, and it was a total hit! This creamy and rich pasta dish is a family favorite that never disappoints. My little family enjoys it for dinner a lot, especially on cozy evenings, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. So, it will be my first choice when I need a quick, comforting, and satisfying meal.

I make this recipe about once a week because it’s simple yet feels like a restaurant-quality dish. When I make it, the entire kitchen smells amazing with the aroma of garlic and creamy Alfredo sauce wafting through the house. I love adding little touches like extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for extra flavor and presentation.

You can also add some other ingredients like mushrooms or broccoli if you like to switch things up, and the result is just wow! You’ll love it for sure, and for a perfect dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes.

For serving, I prefer pairing it with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread. Some extra grated Parmesan on top completes the dish. This recipe is super easy to make and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for any night of the week.

Why You Need to Try Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo?

This Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned, making it hard to resist. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and works for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a special meal for guests.

Perfect For:

  • Family Dinners: This dish is a favorite for all ages. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
  • Date Nights: The luxurious, homemade Alfredo sauce makes this dish feel fancy yet effortless. Pair it with a glass of wine for a romantic touch.
  • Busy Weeknights: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe saves time while delivering a delicious, satisfying meal.
  • Entertaining Guests: It’s a crowd-pleaser and looks impressive, making it perfect for serving guests without stress.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340g) fettuccine pasta
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • A large pot for boiling pasta
  • A large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
  • A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
  • A sharp knife for slicing chicken
  • A cutting board
  • A whisk for blending the sauce

How to make Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Step 1:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and golden. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3:

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring frequently. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 4:

Stir in the Parmesan cheese (and mozzarella if using), whisking until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Add nutmeg for a subtle flavor boost. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5:

Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 6:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss with the pasta and sauce until heated through.

Step 7:

Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

  • Cook the pasta until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
  • Season the chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance its flavor.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor in your Alfredo sauce.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
  • Stir the sauce constantly while adding the cheese to ensure it melts smoothly.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be tender and juicy, not dry.
  • Add fresh parsley or a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Optional Ingredients

  • Mushrooms – Sauté them with the chicken for an earthy addition.
  • Broccoli – Add steamed broccoli for extra greens and texture.
  • Spinach – Stir in fresh spinach at the end for added nutrients.
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Sprinkle for a hint of spice.
  • Lemon Zest – Add a touch of zest for brightness.
  • Bacon Bits – Sprinkle on top for a smoky flavor boost.

How to Serve Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo?

My favorite way to serve this dish is with a fresh green salad and warm garlic bread. The salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta, while the garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

You can also serve it with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. The roasted flavors pair beautifully with the creamy Alfredo sauce.

For a lighter option, skip the bread and enjoy the dish with a side of steamed vegetables. The balance of protein, carbs, and veggies makes it a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Recipe Variations

  1. Shrimp Alfredo: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
  2. Vegetarian Alfredo: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms and spinach.
  3. Spicy Alfredo: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
  4. Cheesy Alfredo: Add shredded mozzarella to the sauce for an extra cheesy version.
  5. Lemon Alfredo: Add lemon juice and zest for a bright and tangy flavor.
  6. Herb Alfredo: Stir in fresh basil or thyme for a herby twist.

How to Store

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.

If you want to freeze it, store the pasta and sauce separately for the best texture. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce lighter?

Absolutely! Use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. Just note the sauce will be less creamy.

How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from separating?

Cook the sauce over low heat and stir constantly while adding the cheese. Avoid boiling the sauce, as it can cause separation.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken works well. Simply heat it in the sauce before combining it with the pasta.

What type of Parmesan cheese should I use?

Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor. Pre-grated cheese often doesn’t melt as smoothly.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute regular fettuccine with gluten-free pasta, and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What spices go well with Alfredo sauce?

In addition to salt and pepper, nutmeg, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning enhance the flavor of Alfredo sauce.

Is it possible to freeze Alfredo sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the Alfredo sauce separately from the pasta. Store it in an airtight container for up to two months and reheat slowly to maintain its creamy texture.

Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: MainCuisine: Italian, AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Total time

30

minutes

This Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is creamy and so tasty. It’s a family favorite because it’s quick to make and always delicious. Great for a cozy dinner or a busy day!

Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340g) fettuccine pasta

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 cups heavy cream

  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and golden. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring frequently. Please bring it to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
  • Stir in the Parmesan cheese (and mozzarella if using), whisking until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Add nutmeg for a subtle flavor boost. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss with the pasta and sauce until heated through.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Season the chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance its flavor.