Classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a timeless dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken breasts and creamy Alfredo sauce, all served over fettuccine pasta. This recipe is a comforting favorite that’s perfect for any occasion, from a cozy dinner at home to impressing guests at a dinner party. The rich and velvety Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese perfectly coats the pasta, creating a luscious, indulgent dish. With its blend of simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, this Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a must-try for anyone who loves classic Italian-inspired meals.

The chicken breasts are pan-seared to golden perfection and paired with the decadent, creamy sauce, making each bite a satisfying combination of flavors and textures. A dash of freshly grated nutmeg adds a subtle depth to the sauce, while the sprinkle of parsley gives the dish a fresh finish. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is easy to prepare and can be on the table in no time. With its creamy, savory sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, it’s a meal everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy Flavor

The creamy Alfredo sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a decadent coating for the pasta, making every bite rich and flavorful.

2. Quick and Easy

This recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a meal for busy days when you want something delicious without a lot of time in the kitchen.

3. Tender Chicken

The chicken breasts are pan-seared to perfection, creating a juicy and flavorful protein that complements the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully.

4. Customizable

You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your preferences by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli, or even switching the chicken for shrimp or another protein.

5. Comforting and Satisfying

Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a comforting dish that satisfies your hunger while offering a deliciously rich and creamy flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Alfredo:

• Dried fettuccine pasta
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Canola oil
• European-style unsalted butter
• Garlic, minced
• Heavy cream
• Finely grated Parmesan cheese
• Freshly grated nutmeg
• Coarsely chopped fresh parsley leaves, for serving

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra flavor and texture in the dish.
• Shrimp Alfredo: Swap the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist on this classic dish.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Add Heat: If you enjoy a little spice, add red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Cream Cheese Twist: For a slightly tangier Alfredo sauce, incorporate cream cheese into the sauce mixture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Add the heavy cream to the pan and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

Top the pasta with the sliced chicken and a sprinkle of coarsely chopped fresh parsley. Add more grated Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To ensure your chicken breasts remain juicy, don’t overcook them. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a bit of pasta water before draining. It helps adjust the sauce’s consistency and helps it adhere to the pasta.
• Stir the Sauce Frequently: Stir the Alfredo sauce continuously to prevent the cream from curdling and ensure the sauce is smooth.

How to Serve

Classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta can be served as the main dish for dinner, paired with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, for added nutrition. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored and reheated if needed.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Chicken Alfredo Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing

While it’s not ideal to freeze the Alfredo sauce as it may separate when thawed, you can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta separately. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop, adding extra cream to refresh the sauce.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the Chicken Alfredo Pasta gently over low heat, adding extra cream or reserved pasta water to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I make this dish without cream?

You can use milk instead of cream, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For a thicker sauce, consider adding a bit of flour to create a roux.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while fettuccine is traditional, you can use other types of pasta such as penne, linguine, or spaghetti.

4. How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Be sure to cook the sauce over low heat and stir frequently. Adding a bit of pasta water helps the sauce stay smooth and creamy.

5. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

While fresh Parmesan is preferred for the best flavor, you can use pre-grated Parmesan if you’re short on time.

6. Can I add vegetables to the Alfredo?

Yes, vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. Just cook them in the same skillet before adding the sauce.

7. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce it, or add extra Parmesan cheese to help thicken the sauce.

8. Can I use a different type of cream?

Heavy cream works best for this recipe, but you could also use half-and-half for a lighter version. Just keep in mind the sauce may not be as rich.

9. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and store them separately. Combine them with the pasta just before serving.

10. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

Classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a delicious and indulgent meal that combines tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s the perfect dinner for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its rich flavor, satisfying texture, and comforting nature, Chicken Alfredo Pasta will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.

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