This creamy Fettuccine Alfredo with chicken is a comforting dish that warms your heart. With pasta coated in rich Alfredo sauce and tender chicken, it’s a classic favorite!
Who doesn’t love a meal that feels like a hug? I’ll often add a sprinkle of cheese on top because, let’s face it, cheese makes everything better. 🍝
What I enjoy most is how quick it is to prepare. Just cook the pasta, whip up the sauce, and toss in the chicken. Dinner is served in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: Fettuccine is perfect for Alfredo due to its flat shape, allowing it to hold the creamy sauce well. If you don’t have fettuccine, you can substitute with linguine or even penne for a different twist.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to, but you could use thighs if you prefer a richer flavor. For a meat-free option, grilled or sautéed mushrooms work well too!
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives the sauce its luscious texture. If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce may not be as thick and creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key for authentic flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use pre-grated cheese. Just taste as you go to adjust the flavor. Don’t skip on the cheese for a rich experience!
How Do You Make the Sauce Really Creamy?
Getting a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce is all about the technique! Here’s how to ensure success:
- Start by sautéing garlic in butter over medium heat. This builds a tasty base.
- Pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently. Don’t rush—let it thicken naturally for a few minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese while the sauce is warm, which helps it melt smoothly.
- Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before adding the fettuccine.
These steps can elevate your dish, making it restaurant-worthy right at home!
Fettuccine Alfredo With Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta & Chicken:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For The Creamy Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried parsley
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and chicken and another 15-20 minutes making the creamy sauce and putting everything together. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Fettuccine:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside—don’t rinse it, as you want to keep that starchy flavor!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once it’s done, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add in the minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Then, slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture gently simmer for about 4-5 minutes while stirring occasionally, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Add the Cheese:
Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream sauce until it becomes smooth and creamy. Taste it! You’ll want to adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt and pepper as needed.
5. Combine with the Pasta:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly. You may want to keep the heat on low to warm it all up if needed.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Plate the pasta, arranging the sliced chicken on top for a beautiful presentation. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh thyme or parsley on top for that finishing touch!
7. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and dig into your creamy, delicious Fettuccine Alfredo with chicken. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Store-Bought Alfredo Sauce Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use store-bought Alfredo sauce if you’re short on time! Just warm it up in the skillet before adding the cooked fettuccine and chicken.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick or creamy, so consider adding a bit of cornstarch dissolved in cold water for extra thickness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to help restore the creaminess, then gently warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Sautéed broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers make great additions. Just cook them in the skillet after sautéing the garlic, before adding the cream!
