Creamy Chicken Alfredo pasta with grilled chicken and parsley

Chicken Alfredo

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Alfredo is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fettuccine pasta. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The blend of flavors is rich and satisfying, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights or when you want to impress guests.

How to Make Chicken Alfredo

Ingredients:

  • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 (6- to 8-oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 8 oz. fettuccine
  • 2 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about 1 cup)
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • Finely chopped fresh parsley, for serving

Directions:

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil.
  2. Add the chicken breasts and season them with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken, turning occasionally, until it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (about 8 minutes per side).
  3. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board. Let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice it into strips.
  4. In the same skillet, add garlic, chicken broth, and milk. Season with more salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
  5. Add the fettuccine and cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce slightly reduces, about 3 minutes.
  6. Continue to cook the pasta, tossing occasionally, until it’s al dente (about 8 to 10 minutes more).
  7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream until everything is combined and smooth.
  8. Bring back to a simmer, tossing occasionally, and let the sauce thicken for about 3 more minutes.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in the sliced chicken. Top with chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Alfredo

Serve Chicken Alfredo hot. You can place a generous portion on a plate or in a bowl. Garnish it with extra chopped parsley and some more grated Parmesan on top, if desired. Enjoy it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Chicken Alfredo

To store Chicken Alfredo, let it cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy, and stir until warmed through.

Tips to Make Chicken Alfredo

  • To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
  • For a richer flavor, add a bit more Parmesan cheese or try mixing in some Italian seasoning.
  • If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Variation

You can make Chicken Alfredo lighter by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also add vegetables like broccoli or spinach to the pasta for added nutrition and color.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne or spaghetti, although fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and pasta ahead, but it’s best to add the chicken right before serving to keep it fresh.

Q: Is Chicken Alfredo gluten-free?
A: The recipe as written is not gluten-free due to the pasta. However, you can use gluten-free pasta to make a gluten-free version of this dish.