Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Chicken Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, silky pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce. This classic dish is beloved for its luxurious texture and indulgent flavors, yet it is surprisingly easy to make at home. The sauce, made with butter, garlic, cream, and parmesan, clings perfectly to every strand of pasta, while juicy pieces of chicken add heartiness. What makes this recipe especially appealing is its versatility—you can enjoy it as is or add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra freshness. I once tried making it with half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and it was still wonderfully creamy while being a bit lighter. Whether you are cooking for a cozy family dinner or want to impress guests, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
Creamy Chicken Alfredo – Rich, Cheesy Pasta Made in Under 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and comforting pasta dish made with tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and Parmesan cheese for a classic Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken strips until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Add broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breasts – Lean protein that cooks quickly and adds substance to the pasta.
Pasta – Fettuccine is traditional, but penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni also work well.
Butter – Forms the base of the sauce and adds richness.
Garlic – Brings aromatic depth and enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
Heavy cream – Essential for creating the luscious, velvety Alfredo sauce.
Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated parmesan adds nutty, salty flavor and thickens the sauce.
Olive oil – Used to sear the chicken until golden and juicy.
Chicken broth – Lightens the sauce and adds savory depth.
Italian seasoning – Provides an herbal balance to the creamy sauce.
Salt and pepper – Basic seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
Fresh parsley – Garnish for freshness and color before serving.
Directions
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, searing the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice into strips.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking until smooth. Add parmesan cheese, stirring until melted into a silky sauce. If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a splash of reserved pasta water. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated. Add the chicken slices back to the skillet, letting everything warm through together. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with 20 minutes of cooking time. The dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Microwaving is possible but may cause the sauce to separate slightly. Freezing is not recommended, as cream sauces tend to split when thawed.
Variations and Customizations
Broccoli Alfredo
Add steamed broccoli for extra nutrition and a pop of color.
Shrimp Alfredo
Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
Mushroom Alfredo
Sauté mushrooms with garlic for an earthy, hearty variation.
Lighter Alfredo
Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Extra Cheesy Alfredo
Mix in mozzarella or asiago along with parmesan for a cheesier bite.
Spicy Alfredo
Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Gluten-Free Alfredo
Use gluten-free pasta for a dietary-friendly version.
Spinach Alfredo
Stir in fresh spinach just before serving for added freshness.
Low-Carb Option
Serve the sauce and chicken over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Baked Chicken Alfredo
Top with mozzarella and bake until bubbly for a casserole-style dish.
FAQs
What pasta works best for Alfredo?
Fettuccine is traditional, but penne, spaghetti, and rigatoni also work.
Can I make Alfredo sauce without cream?
Yes, use half-and-half or milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
How do I keep the sauce from separating?
Simmer gently and avoid boiling once the cream is added.
Can I use pre-grated parmesan?
Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives smoother results.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and enjoy the pasta and sauce on their own.
How can I thicken the sauce?
Add extra parmesan or let it simmer a few minutes longer.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, thighs are juicier and add extra flavor.
Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes, a splash of white wine before adding cream adds depth and acidity.
What sides go well with Alfredo?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables are great accompaniments.
Can I prepare Alfredo ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can make the sauce a day ahead and reheat gently.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Alfredo is a timeless pasta dish that never fails to impress. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and versatile customization options, it is a recipe you will want to make again and again. Whether you keep it classic or add vegetables, spices, or seafood, this dish delivers big on comfort and flavor in just 30 minutes. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, it is a meal that feels indulgent without being complicated.
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