Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, Chicken Alfredo always takes the top spot in my house. There’s just something magical about creamy, cheesy sauce coating tender chicken and pasta. The best part? You don’t have to go to a fancy restaurant to enjoy this dish—you can make it right at home, and it’ll taste just as delicious.
I first tried making Chicken Alfredo years ago, and since then, it’s become a staple in my weekly meal rotation. The smooth, velvety sauce with perfectly cooked chicken over al dente pasta is simply irresistible. Every time I make it, the aroma fills the kitchen, and the whole family gathers around the table, eager to dig in.
Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or impressing guests, this Chicken Alfredo recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. And the best part? It can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile
This recipe is perfect for customizing. You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to make it even heartier. You can also switch up the protein by using shrimp or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter, vegetarian twist.
Budget-Friendly
Chicken, pasta, and cream—these pantry staples come together to create a deliciously satisfying dish that won’t break the bank. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch your ingredients to feed a crowd without spending too much.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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300 g (about 10 oz) fettuccine pasta
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2 tablespoons butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make This Recipe
Making Chicken Alfredo is easier than you think. You’ll be able to impress your family or guests with a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and absolutely mouthwatering. Let’s walk through the steps so you can create this amazing dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat both sides of the chicken evenly. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and are golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest. Once cooled slightly, slice it into thin strips.
2. Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water for later.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Add the Cheese
Once the sauce has thickened, add the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, you can thin it out with a little bit of the reserved pasta water.
5. Combine the Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly. If you need more sauce, feel free to add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Once the pasta is coated, add the sliced chicken and toss everything together to mix.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken and pasta are well combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Chicken Alfredo hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a fresh, vibrant color to the dish and a hint of freshness to balance out the richness.
Quick and Easy
What makes this Chicken Alfredo recipe so great is that it’s not only delicious but also incredibly quick to make. You can have the whole meal ready in just under 30 minutes. The combination of pan-seared chicken, a creamy homemade Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this a go-to dish for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and satisfying, but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Customizable
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit your tastes. If you love veggies, feel free to add some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for extra flavor and texture. You can also use different types of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni, if you don’t have fettuccine on hand.
For an even lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use a lower-fat milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick or creamy, but it’ll still taste delicious.
Perfect for Guests
Chicken Alfredo is a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for a family dinner or even when you have guests over. It’s elegant enough to serve at a dinner party but easy enough to whip up on a weeknight. Pair it with a fresh salad and some garlic bread, and you’ve got a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I make Chicken Alfredo ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components of the dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and pasta, then prepare the Alfredo sauce. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, reheat everything in a skillet over low heat, adding a little pasta water or milk to loosen the sauce.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is the traditional pasta for Alfredo, you can easily swap it for any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
Can I make Chicken Alfredo lighter?
Yes, you can lighten up the dish by using a lower-fat milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of cheese and add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini to balance out the richness.
Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo?
While Chicken Alfredo can technically be frozen, the creamy sauce may change in texture when reheated. If you plan to freeze leftovers, it’s best to store them in an airtight container and enjoy them within 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently over the stove.