Chicken Alfredo is a popular pasta dish known for its rich, creamy sauce that combines perfectly with tender chicken and flavorful pasta. If you're looking for a quick and delicious meal to prepare during busy weeknights, this chicken alfredo recipe is just what you need. With simple ingredients like boneless skinless chicken breasts, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese, this recipe delivers a satisfying dish without requiring much time or effort.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to create an irresistible alfredo pasta using common pantry staples. From cooking the pasta in salted water to creating a flavorful alfredo sauce recipe, the steps are easy to follow and will have your meal ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting guests, this dish is sure to become one of your go-to pasta dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
These ingredients come together to create a creamy sauce that's flavorful, rich, and perfect for a cozy meal. Adding some reserved pasta water will help thicken the sauce and enhance the texture of your alfredo pasta.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, drain the remaining water, and set the cooked pasta aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and slice into thin strips.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water, whisking until the creamy sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the sliced chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the alfredo sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and a bit of freshly grated Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately for a warm and comforting meal.
Tips for Customizing Your Chicken Alfredo
This chicken alfredo recipe is highly versatile, and you can easily modify it to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Add vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use different proteins: Swap out the chicken for shrimp or even a plant-based alternative.
- Spice it up: For a kick of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
These simple tweaks can transform your alfredo pasta into a dish that fits any occasion or dietary preference.
Nutritional Information
While Chicken Alfredo is known for its indulgent creamy sauce, you can make lighter versions by using low-fat cream or substituting Greek yogurt. Below is an estimate of the nutritional value per serving of the traditional version:
- Calories: 750
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
Making small adjustments, such as reducing the cream or using whole-wheat pasta, can make this dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
This easy and delicious chicken alfredo recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when time is short but you still crave a comforting meal. With its rich creamy sauce, tender chicken, and simple preparation, this dish is a family favorite that comes together in under 30 minutes. Using basic ingredients like boneless skinless chicken breasts, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to customize to your liking.
Whether you’re preparing this meal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress with its balance of flavors and textures. By following this recipe, you’ll have a delicious plate of alfredo pasta ready in no time, offering both simplicity and indulgence. Don’t forget to experiment with different variations to keep things fresh and exciting in the kitchen!
