Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy, comforting, and delicious dish that’s perfect for dinner. Tender pasta coated in rich Alfredo sauce, paired with juicy chicken, makes for a satisfying and indulgent meal. Follow this recipe to recreate this restaurant favorite at home.

Recommended Kitchen Tools

• Large pot – for boiling fettuccine
• Colander – to drain pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking chicken and sauce
• Tongs – to toss and serve pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient portions
• Grater or microplane – for fresh Parmesan
• Cutting board & knife – to prep chicken

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 medium-sized boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Pasta

• 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine pasta
• Water for boiling
• 1 teaspoon salt (for pasta water)

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Additional Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the Pasta: Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté Garlic: Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using).

Step 4: Combine the Components

1. Add Pasta to Sauce: Toss the cooked fettuccine in the Alfredo sauce, ensuring every strand is coated. If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.
2. Add Chicken: Arrange the sliced chicken on top or mix it into the pasta.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the chicken fettuccine Alfredo on plates or a large serving platter.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
3. Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Make It Creamier: For an even creamier sauce, add 2 ounces of cream cheese to the Alfredo sauce.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for a nutritious twist.

Pro Tips

• Season chicken well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for extra flavor.
• Cook pasta until al dente, as it will continue cooking slightly in the sauce.
• Use heavy cream and real butter for that rich, restaurant-style Alfredo.
• Don’t let the sauce boil — simmer gently to prevent separation.
• Stir in freshly grated Parmesan at the end for the smoothest texture.

Variations

• Broccoli Alfredo – Steam and add broccoli for color and crunch.
• Mushroom Alfredo – Sauté mushrooms with the chicken or separately.
• Spicy Alfredo – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Seafood Alfredo – Replace chicken with shrimp or scallops.
• Bacon Alfredo – Add crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky twist.

FAQs

• Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
  You can, but the sauce will be thinner. A mix of milk and cream cheese helps thicken it.
• How do I reheat leftovers?
  Gently warm over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
  Yes, but homemade gives much better flavor and texture.
• Can I make it ahead?
  Yes. Store sauce and pasta separately for best texture when reheating.

Fit-Your-Diet Adjustments

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free fettuccine noodles.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream, dairy-free butter, and vegan Parmesan.
• Low-Carb: Swap fettuccine for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
• High-Protein: Add extra grilled chicken or stir in some cottage cheese.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half and reduce butter for a less rich sauce.

Conclusion

Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic Italian-American dish that brings comfort and elegance to the dinner table. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with your preferred ingredients, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!