Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a comforting, creamy dish that brings together juicy chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and tender pasta. Originating from the classic Italian-American flavors, this dish offers indulgence with every bite. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy recipe can be ready in just 30 minutes, so you can enjoy all the flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb, thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 lb fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Preparation
- Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside. - Prepare the Chicken
Season chicken slices with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, add butter over medium heat. Once melted, add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring continuously. - Add Cream and Parmesan
Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Slowly add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and blends into a smooth, creamy sauce. For a thicker sauce, add mozzarella as well. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. - Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. - Serve and Garnish
Divide into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations
- Lighter Alfredo: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and add a tablespoon of flour to help thicken.
- Vegetable Additions: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for a heartier dish.
- Protein Substitutes: Try shrimp, or go meat-free by leaving out the chicken for a vegetarian Alfredo.
Cooking Tips
- Freshly Grated Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and a smoother sauce, as pre-grated cheese can cause the sauce to be grainy.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become tough. Sear just until golden and cooked through, then remove to keep it tender.
- Balance with Pasta Water: Use pasta water to thin out the sauce as needed – it helps the sauce cling to the pasta better and enhances the creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta with a crisp Caesar salad, a warm garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. A glass of light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the Alfredo sauce.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 740 kcal
- Protein: 36g
- Fat: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
1. Can I make Chicken Alfredo Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish up to 1 day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
2. Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Pasta?
Freezing is possible but can affect the texture of the sauce. If you choose to freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
3. How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from curdling?
Ensure the cream is at room temperature before adding it, and don’t let the sauce boil. Stir constantly and keep the heat moderate to avoid separation.
Conclusion
This Chicken Alfredo Pasta recipe is a creamy and delicious dish that will bring comfort and flavor to your dinner table. It’s rich, satisfying, and quick to make, making it a perfect choice for any night of the week. Try it tonight and experience how simple ingredients can come together for a mouth-watering meal everyone will love.