Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With a total preparation and cooking time of approximately 33 minutes, it’s ideal for busy evenings.
Rich and Creamy: The homemade Alfredo sauce is velvety and flavorful, made with heavy cream, butter, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Versatile: While fettuccine is traditional, you can use any pasta you prefer.
Family Favorite: This dish is sure to please both adults and children alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Noodles

16 ounces dry fettuccine pasta

For the Chicken

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon butter

For the Sauce

1/2 cup butter, cut into large cubes or slices
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 clove garlic, minced
3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente according to package directions, usually about 10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water, then drain well and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large nonstick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken and cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until the bottom is golden-brown. Flip the chicken, add 1 tablespoon of butter, and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer the chicken to a cutting board, let rest for 3 minutes, then slice into 1/2-inch-thick pieces.
Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet over medium-low heat, add the butter and heavy cream. Whisk until the butter has melted. Add the minced garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk until combined and smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil) and cook for 3-4 minutes, whisking constantly, until it starts to thicken. Stir in the Parmesan cheese just until melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water, a few tablespoons at a time, to thin it out.
Assemble the Dish: Remove the sauce from heat and immediately toss with the cooked fettuccine noodles. Divide the pasta among serving bowls and top with sliced chicken. Garnish with parsley, additional Parmesan, and black pepper if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes

Variations

Vegetable Addition: Incorporate steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Cheese Variety: Mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Asiago for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

FAQs

How can I prevent the Alfredo sauce from separating?

Ensure you cook the sauce over medium-low heat and avoid boiling. Whisk continuously to maintain a smooth consistency.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

It’s recommended to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese, as pre-grated versions often contain additives that can affect the sauce’s texture.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving.

Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo?

Freezing is not recommended, as the cream-based sauce may separate upon thawing.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I add other herbs to the sauce?

Yes, feel free to incorporate herbs like basil or parsley to suit your taste.

What type of pasta works best with Alfredo sauce?

Fettuccine is traditional, but linguine, penne, or spaghetti also work well.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce a bit longer, or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The sauce is gluten-free, but ensure you use gluten-free pasta to make the entire dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Chicken Alfredo recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers both flavor and satisfaction.

Chicken Alfredo

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Julia
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

This Chicken Alfredo recipe is a creamy, comforting classic that pairs juicy pan-seared chicken breasts with fettuccine noodles tossed in a rich homemade Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan. Quick, easy, and family-friendly, it’s the perfect go-to meal for any occasion.

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Season chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165°F). Add butter during the last few minutes. Let rest, then slice.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add cream, garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer and whisk until slightly thickened (3–4 minutes).
Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Thin with reserved pasta water if needed.
Toss cooked pasta in the sauce. Serve topped with sliced chicken and optional parsley or extra cheese.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture.

Add a splash of milk when reheating to maintain creaminess.

Stir in cooked broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients.

Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu as desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian