Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
There is something truly irresistible about Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo that makes it a beloved classic in so many homes. This creamy, comforting dish features tender strips of perfectly cooked chicken nestled in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce, clinging lovingly to al dente fettuccine noodles. Every bite is a harmonious blend of indulgent flavors and satisfying textures that make it a perfect meal to share or savor anytime you crave some cozy Italian-inspired goodness. Trust me, once you make this Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, it might just become one of your all-time favorites too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building that signature creamy sauce and tender, flavorful chicken that make this dish shine. From the rich butter and Parmesan that create a luscious sauce, to the perfectly seared chicken adding protein and depth, each component is carefully chosen for taste, texture, and color.
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta: Pick a good-quality pasta for the best texture that holds up to the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Ideal for cooking the chicken to golden perfection while adding subtle fruity notes.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips: Chicken provides tender, juicy protein to your dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance every flavor.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness to the Alfredo sauce without overpowering it.
- 2 cups heavy cream: The key ingredient for that silky, dreamy Alfredo sauce texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty flavor that defines traditional Alfredo.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A gentle garlic touch that complements the cheese and cream beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs elevating the sauce with subtle herbal notes.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness as a garnish.
How to Make Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook it until perfectly al dente, usually around 10 to 12 minutes depending on your package instructions. Al dente means it should be tender but still have a slight bite, which is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce and chicken.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your chicken strips, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper to build flavor from the start. Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink in the middle and has a beautiful golden exterior, about 6 to 8 minutes. Then transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set it aside—this step ensures your chicken remains juicy and tender.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Reduce the heat to low in the same skillet so you can keep all those chicken flavors. Melt the butter first, creating a rich base. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly to combine everything smoothly. The cream and butter form the luxurious foundation of your Alfredo sauce.
Step 4: Add Seasonings and Cheese
Now comes the magic: gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese melts fully and the sauce becomes thick and velvety with a subtle herby aroma. Taste your sauce and add a pinch more salt and pepper if you want it just right; this step is where you customize it to your preference.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet and gently stir to coat each piece evenly with that creamy Alfredo goodness. This step ensures every bite has a balance of savory chicken and the luscious sauce hugging it tightly.
Step 6: Toss Pasta with Sauce and Chicken
Finally, add your cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet. Use tongs to carefully toss the pasta with the chicken and sauce, making sure every strand is coated in that rich, cheesy mixture. This is where the magic truly comes together, turning simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece.
Step 7: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Plate your Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo while it’s warm and inviting. If you like, sprinkle a little freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh, colorful finish. Now, dig in and savor every creamy, indulgent bite of this classic Italian favorite!
How to Serve Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is an absolute winner here, adding a bright contrast to the creamy sauce’s richness. A light dusting of extra grated Parmesan on top can elevate the flavor even more and make the dish look irresistible. If you love a little sparkle of color, some cracked black pepper or lemon zest are also wonderful options that bring freshness.
Side Dishes
Because Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is quite rich, pairing it with lighter sides is a smart move. A crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette balances the creaminess beautifully. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans also add a nice crunch and freshness that complement the dish perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
To make your Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo feel extra special, try serving it in individual shallow bowls with a sprig of fresh herbs on top. For a twist, you can also bake it in a casserole dish with a sprinkle of bread crumbs and cheese for a golden crispy top. These little touches turn a simple dinner into an elegant dining experience that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo actually tastes great as leftovers! Store any unused portions in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing to keep the texture and flavors intact.
Freezing
You can freeze Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, but because of the cream sauce, it’s best frozen without the pasta to avoid texture issues. Freeze the sauce and chicken separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight and reheat gently, then toss with freshly cooked pasta for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from breaking or becoming grainy. Adding a splash of milk or cream while warming helps restore the creamy texture. Stir gently until heated through, then enjoy a comforting second helping that tastes almost as good as fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional, you can use linguine, penne, or even spaghetti based on your preference. Just keep in mind the shape affects how the sauce clings to the noodles.
Is it possible to make Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting dairy ingredients with alternatives like coconut cream, dairy-free butter, and vegan Parmesan-style cheese, you can enjoy a delicious dairy-free version with similar creamy satisfaction.
Can I prepare the Alfredo sauce in advance?
You can make the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just reheat gently and whisk before tossing with pasta and chicken for that creamy consistency.
What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Cooking the chicken strips over medium heat without overcrowding the pan prevents steaming. Also, avoid overcooking by removing the chicken as soon as it’s no longer pink inside, keeping it tender and juicy.
Can I add vegetables to Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo?
Definitely! Adding steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or peas can boost both color and nutrition while pairing wonderfully with the creamy sauce and chicken.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is truly one of those dishes that brings comfort, joy, and a little bit of indulgence to any table. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special meal for friends and family, this recipe delivers creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. Give it a try—you might find yourself making this classic more often than you’d expect because it’s just that good!
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Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
A creamy and delicious Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo recipe featuring tender chicken breast strips and rich Parmesan Alfredo sauce tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta. This classic Italian-American dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a comforting dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken strips with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce base: Reduce heat to low in the same skillet. Add butter and allow it to melt completely before slowly pouring in the heavy cream. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Add seasonings and cheese: Gradually mix in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the Alfredo sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet, stirring well to coat them evenly with the Alfredo sauce.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the drained fettuccine pasta to the skillet. Use tongs to gently toss the pasta with the chicken and sauce until everything is thoroughly combined and heated through.
- Serve: Plate the Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream but expect a less rich sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and a smoother sauce texture.
- Ensure chicken is cooked through completely to avoid any food safety issues.
- If sauce is too thick, thin with a little pasta water or milk to desired consistency.
- Fresh garlic can be used instead of garlic powder for a stronger flavor.
- Allow pasta to retain some bite by not overcooking it to mush.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 22 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
Keywords: Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, creamy pasta recipe, easy Italian dinner, chicken pasta, Alfredo sauce
