Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken with fettuccine pasta in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With its delicious flavors and creamy texture, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients List
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Timing
Preparing Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil.
- Season Chicken: Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring frequently.
- Incorporate Cheese: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Season: Stir in Italian seasoning (if using) and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken
- Add Pasta: Add the cooked fettuccine and chicken back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to combine and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Tips for Customization
- Protein Variations: Substitute chicken with shrimp, scallops, or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère for a unique flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra freshness and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta pairs well with:
- A side salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink to keep it tender and juicy.
- Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency, so don’t skip it!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
In just about 30 minutes, you can create a delicious Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta that is sure to become a family favorite. This rich and satisfying dish is perfect for any occasion and is simple enough for a weeknight dinner!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just combine them with the pasta when ready to serve.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta.
What can I do if I have leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I customize the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, spices, or proteins to make this dish your own.
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- • 8 oz fettuccine pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- • 2 tablespoons olive oil
- • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- • Salt and pepper to taste
- • 2 cloves garlic, minced
- • 1 cup heavy cream
- • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring frequently.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- Stir in Italian seasoning if using and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken
- Add the cooked fettuccine and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to combine and heat through for 1–2 minutes.
- Serve
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
