There’s nothing quite like a plate of Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo to bring comfort and joy to the dinner table. This classic Italian-American dish features tender fettuccine pasta cloaked in a luscious Alfredo sauce, topped with juicy slices of chicken breast and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a surefire hit.
What’s in Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo? Let’s break down the key ingredients:
Fettuccine Pasta: The perfect shape to soak up all that creamy sauce. Fresh pasta is a game-changer here, but any good-quality fettuccine will do.
Chicken Breasts: Lean, juicy, and full of protein, these make the dish more substantial.
Olive Oil: A splash of extra virgin olive oil ensures your chicken cooks perfectly and adds flavor.
Salt and Pepper: A simple yet essential seasoning.
Heavy Cream: The star of the Alfredo sauce, giving it that rich and silky texture.
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: The key to achieving a deeply cheesy, savory sauce.
Garlic: Just two cloves add a fragrant, aromatic note that complements the sauce beautifully.
Butter: Adds extra creaminess and richness to the dish.
Fresh Parsley: A final garnish for a pop of color and herby freshness.
Extra Parmesan Cheese: Because you can never have too much cheese!
Is Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Healthy?
While it’s undeniably indulgent, the ingredients have their merits. Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, and the dish is filling enough to satisfy without overindulgence. That said, the heavy cream and butter do add calories, so enjoy this dish in moderation or lighten it up with a few adjustments. For a lower-calorie version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half, or add steamed vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this creamy masterpiece (Serves 4):
8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Extra grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
How to Make Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality dish right at home:
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine until al dente (follow package instructions). Don’t forget to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining!
Cook the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once done, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Make the Alfredo Sauce: Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce, tossing until each strand is coated in creamy goodness.
Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and savor the deliciousness!
Pro Tips for Perfect Alfredo
Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a subtle depth of flavor.
Want to sneak in some veggies? Toss in steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms while combining the pasta with the sauce.
Pair this dish with crispy garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal.
