Description
This Classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta recipe is an ultimate guide to creating a rich, creamy, and comforting dish. It features tender chicken breast and fettuccine coated in a velvety Alfredo sauce, perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how simple ingredients come together for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound)
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Fettuccine: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Once the butter is melted, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant, but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly.
- Add Cheese: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg, if using.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained fettuccine to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- Add Chicken: Finally, slice the cooked chicken and arrange it on top of the pasta. Stir gently to combine everything.
- Serve Immediately: Plate the pasta while hot, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and color.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh ingredients like garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese.
- Adjust the creaminess by using half-and-half or reducing butter if desired.
- Season each layer of the dish for maximum flavor.
- Consider adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or substituting chicken with shrimp for variations.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze pasta and sauce separately for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: N/A