Creamy Chicken Alfredo

Name: Creamy Chicken Alfredo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces fettuccine pasta; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the rich and velvety taste of Creamy Chicken Alfredo, a delicious pasta dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with a decadent, homemade Alfredo sauce. This comforting recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, delivering a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. Serve it over fettuccine or your favorite pasta for a satisfying, creamy experience that everyone will love.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2025-11-13T08:19:37.981Z

Creamy Chicken Alfredo is a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, it's a favorite for many.

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

Creamy Chicken Alfredo is an ideal choice for those busy weeknights when you want to serve a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, this dish is quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dinner in under 30 minutes. The combination of tender chicken and rich Alfredo sauce over perfectly cooked pasta makes for a comforting meal that everyone can appreciate.

Moreover, this recipe is easily customizable. You can add vegetables like broccoli or spinach to boost the nutritional content, or substitute the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different twist. The adaptability of this dish ensures that it can cater to various dietary preferences and taste buds, making it a versatile addition to your weeknight dinner repertoire.

The Allure of Homemade Alfredo Sauce

One of the standout features of this Creamy Chicken Alfredo recipe is the homemade Alfredo sauce. Unlike store-bought options that may contain preservatives and artificial flavors, this sauce is crafted from scratch using fresh ingredients. The combination of butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese results in a rich, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta, enhancing every bite.

Making Alfredo sauce at home not only allows you to control the flavors but also lets you experiment with different cheese varieties and seasonings. For a hint of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, or for a touch of freshness, a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish. This flexibility in flavor makes homemade Alfredo sauce truly special and noteworthy.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

When it comes to serving Creamy Chicken Alfredo, presentation can elevate the dining experience. Consider serving this dish in warmed bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and an extra dusting of grated Parmesan cheese. This small touch not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavors, inviting your guests to dive in with enthusiasm.

For a complete meal, pair your Chicken Alfredo with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. The freshness of a salad can balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce, while garlic bread provides a comforting, hearty side. Additionally, a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy flavors perfectly, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 ounces fettuccine pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to gather everything before you start cooking!

Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and slice.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic; sauté for about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine All Ingredients

Add the cooked fettuccine and chicken to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Remove from heat.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy!

This dish is best served warm and can be paired with a side salad or garlic bread.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to put a unique spin on your Creamy Chicken Alfredo, consider incorporating different proteins or vegetables. Grilled shrimp can add a delightful flavor and texture, while sautéed mushrooms or broccoli can introduce some color and nutrition. You can even experiment by adding sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tang or peas for a pop of sweetness.

For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half. This maintains creaminess while cutting down on calories. Additionally, whole wheat pasta can provide added fiber and a nuttier flavor, making it a wonderful alternative for health-conscious diners.

Tips for Perfection

To achieve the best results with your Chicken Alfredo, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and won't hold the sauce effectively. A quick rinse after draining can also help if you're worried about sticking.

When making the sauce, it’s essential to keep the heat at a medium level to prevent the cream from scorching. Stirring continuously as you add the cheese can help create a smooth, cohesive sauce without clumps. Finally, always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; sometimes a pinch more salt or a sprinkle of black pepper can make all the difference.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, Creamy Chicken Alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it's best to do so gently on the stovetop to avoid separation of the sauce. Add a splash of milk or additional cream to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency as you reheat.

Freezing is another option, although the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on low heat, stirring frequently to keep it smooth.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different pasta?

Absolutely! Penne or linguine also work well with Alfredo sauce.

→ What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

You can use Pecorino Romano or a similar hard cheese as a substitute.