Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe (with Video)

Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe: If you love creamy, cheesy pasta dishes, then Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is the perfect comfort food for you!

This classic Italian-American dish features tender, juicy chicken, rich and velvety Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta.

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this step-by-step guide will help you create a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

Ingredients Needed

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• ½ cup pasta water (reserved)

Tools and Equipment Required

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Strainer
• Large skillet (for cooking chicken)
• Saucepan (for Alfredo sauce)
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk
• Cutting board and knife

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Choosing the Right Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this dish, but you can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

Seasoning and Cooking

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter.
4. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
5. Remove from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.

Step 2: Cooking the Fettuccine Pasta

1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor.
3. Add fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually 10-12 minutes) until al dente.
4. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
5. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Making the Alfredo Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously.
4. Slowly add the grated Parmesan cheese while whisking to ensure a smooth texture.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (optional).
6. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
7. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Step 4: Combining Everything

1. Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly.
2. Add the sliced chicken and mix everything together.
3. Adjust seasoning if needed, adding more Parmesan cheese or black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serving the Dish

Plating and Garnishing

• Serve the Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo on warm plates.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Best Pairings:

• Bread: Garlic bread or a warm baguette
• Salad: Caesar salad or a simple green salad
• Wine: Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Alfredo

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it al dente for the best texture.
• Balance the sauce – If it’s too thick, add a splash of pasta water.
• Cook the chicken properly – Let it rest before slicing to keep it juicy.

Variations and Substitutes

• Healthier Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and add sautéed spinach or mushrooms.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or grilled tofu.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Swap fettuccine for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce smooth.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs about Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

1. What ingredients are needed for Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo?

You will need fettuccine pasta, boneless chicken breasts, butter, heavy cream, garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Fresh parsley is optional for garnishing.

2. How long does it take to prepare and cook Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo?

Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes, making the total time around 30 minutes.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of fettuccine?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional, you can substitute it with spaghetti, linguine, or any pasta you prefer. The sauce will still blend perfectly with any choice.

4. Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream for the sauce?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of flour to reduce the fat content. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less creamy.

5. How can I make the Alfredo sauce thicker?

To thicken Alfredo sauce, add more grated Parmesan cheese gradually until reaching the desired consistency. Alternatively, simmer the sauce for a longer period to reduce and thicken it.

6. Can Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo be made gluten-free?

Definitely! Use gluten-free pasta and check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially the cheese and any added seasonings.

7. How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.

8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, incorporating vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes can add flavor and nutrition. Add them while the sauce simmers to blend the flavors together.

9. Is Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo suitable for freezing?

Freezing is not recommended as the cream-based sauce may separate and become grainy when thawed. For best results, enjoy freshly made.

10. What pairs well with Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo?

A side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad complements the rich and creamy pasta beautifully, balancing the meal.

This section covers the common questions about making Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, ensuring a smooth cooking experience with tips for personalization and storage.