Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta: A Comforting Classic Recipe

There’s something magical about chicken alfredo pasta that transforms an ordinary meal into a comforting hug on a plate. The creamy sauce, perfectly coated over tender pasta and succulent chicken, creates a culinary masterpiece that dances with flavor. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, pulling everyone from their rooms like a siren’s call—it’s practically impossible to resist!

Growing up, chicken alfredo was my family’s go-to dish for celebrations, be it birthdays or just surviving another week. My mom would whip up this creamy delight with such ease that I thought she had some sort of secret kitchen wizardry. Let me tell you, the anticipation of twirling that fork into a bowl of rich, cheesy goodness is an experience I cherish deeply.

I remember the first time I served chicken alfredo to my college buddies. Their faces lit up as they took their first bites, and the room filled with happy chatter—a moment I’ll never forget.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts will do; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.

• Pasta: Fettuccine is traditional here; it holds onto that creamy sauce beautifully.

• Heavy Cream: For a rich and luscious sauce; don’t skimp on the good stuff!

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds a nutty flavor; avoid the pre-grated stuff if you can.

• Garlic: Use fresh cloves for the best taste; nothing beats that aromatic punch.

• Butter: A good quality unsalted butter adds richness to the sauce.

• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked enhances the flavors and adds a bit of heat.

• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley not only looks pretty but also adds a touch of freshness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add salt generously before adding your fettuccine. Cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 8-10 minutes should do it!

Sauté the Chicken: While your pasta cooks, heat some butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan. Cook for around 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Create the Alfredo Sauce: In another saucepan over medium heat, melt more butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant but not browned—just about 1 minute will suffice! Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer gently.

Add Cheese Galore!: Stir in that glorious Parmesan cheese slowly while whisking continuously until melted and creamy. Season with black pepper to taste—you want this sauce to sing!

Toss It All Together: Drain your cooked pasta (don’t forget to reserve some pasta water!) and combine it with the creamy Alfredo sauce. Add sliced chicken on top, mixing everything well. If too thick, use reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Garnish & Serve!: Plate your chicken alfredo pasta while still warm. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for color—and voilà! Dinner is served!

Now sit back and relish those satisfied smiles as everyone digs into their plates of pure happiness.

As you enjoy every creamy bite of this delightful chicken alfredo pasta recipe, remember: cooking is all about love—and maybe just a sprinkle of garlic!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken in a hot skillet, then boil the pasta while preparing your creamy sauce. This sequence ensures everything comes together harmoniously, creating the perfect Chicken Alfredo pasta without any unnecessary waiting.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or add vegetables like spinach or broccoli. A sprinkle of nutmeg or fresh herbs can elevate the flavors, giving your Chicken Alfredo pasta that personalized touch.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s luscious texture and avoid drying out your Chicken Alfredo pasta.

The first time I made Chicken Alfredo pasta, my friends devoured it so quickly I barely got a taste! Their delighted faces were priceless and motivated me to perfect my technique even more.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought sauces save time but might lack freshness compared to homemade.

What type of pasta works best for Chicken Alfredo?

Fettuccine is traditional, but you can also use penne or spaghetti for variety.

How can I make Chicken Alfredo lighter?

Substitute half-and-half with milk and use less cheese to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.

Print

Chicken Alfredo Pasta

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Chicken Alfredo pasta is a delightful dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. This creamy, rich sauce envelops tender fettuccine and succulent chicken, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is sure to impress with its luscious flavors and customizable options. Serve it up hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and enjoy the smiles around the table!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and reserve some pasta water.
2. Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and slice.
3. Create the Alfredo Sauce: In another saucepan, melt remaining butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add heavy cream and simmer gently.
4. Add Cheese: Whisk in Parmesan cheese gradually until melted and creamy. Season with black pepper.
5. Combine: Toss cooked pasta into the Alfredo sauce along with sliced chicken. If too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
6. Garnish & Serve: Plate warm pasta, sprinkle with parsley, and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 340g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 860mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 21g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Customize by adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition. For lighter options, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.