Classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe

This Classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It features tender chicken and perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta tossed in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce. It’s a classic Italian-American dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta

• Creamy and Delicious: This dish is all about that luscious, creamy Alfredo sauce. It’s made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich and decadent flavor that coats the pasta and chicken perfectly.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in no time.
• Versatile: You can serve this dish with a variety of sides, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Try it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
• Satisfying and Comforting: This dish is both satisfying and comforting, making it a perfect meal for a cozy night in or a special occasion dinner.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta

• Fettuccine Pasta: I use dried fettuccine pasta for this recipe, but you can also use fresh fettuccine if you prefer.
• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used for this dish.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: To season the chicken and the sauce.
• Canola Oil: Used for cooking the chicken.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce. I recommend using European-style butter for its higher fat content.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a rich and creamy sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce.
• Nutmeg: Adds a warm, slightly sweet spice to the sauce.
• Fresh Parsley: For garnish.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

Want to try something different? Here are a few ideas:

• Veggie Delight: Add some sautéed vegetables, like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers, to the sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for some heat.
• Shrimp or Sausage: Swap out the chicken for shrimp or Italian sausage.
• Lemon Twist: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for brightness.

How to Make Classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.

Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper. Heat the canola oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the hot pan and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 3: Slice and Rest the Chicken

Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Cover the chicken with foil to keep it warm.

Step 4: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pan used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Whisk in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly thickened. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta cooking water to thin it out.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Add the drained fettuccine to the sauce and toss to coat. Divide the pasta among serving bowls and top with the sliced chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley, more Parmesan cheese, and black pepper, if desired.

Tips and Tricks

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t become mushy in the sauce.
• Use Quality Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
• Adjust the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.

How to Serve

This Classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta is delicious with:

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing!
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing complement to this rich dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts would also be delicious alongside this pasta.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
• Storing: Store leftover pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The sauce may separate slightly when reheated.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other types of pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use other types of cheese, such as Gruyère, Asiago, or even a blend of Italian cheeses. Parmesan is a classic choice for Alfredo sauce, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.

Can I make this dish without cream?
The cream is what gives the Alfredo sauce its rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can try using half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. However, the sauce may not be as thick and creamy.

There you have it! A delicious and easy recipe for Classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta. I hope you enjoy it!

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