Name: Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional); 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with perfectly cooked pasta and a luscious Alfredo sauce. This classic Italian-American favorite is easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a creamy, indulgent meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. The combination of juicy chicken, tender pasta, and silky Alfredo sauce makes it irresistible. It’s customizable—you can add vegetables, extra cheese, or even swap the pasta for a healthier option.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound / 450 g), cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Alfredo Sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

For the Pasta:

12 ounces (340 g) fettuccine or any pasta of choice
Salt for boiling water

Optional Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Cook the chicken:
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Alfredo sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
Combine pasta and chicken:
Add cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Serve:
Transfer to plates and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetable Alfredo: Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for a colorful, nutritious twist.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Sear the chicken in garlic butter for extra flavor.
Shrimp Alfredo: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood variation.
Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
Spicy Alfredo: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, simply add it to the sauce at the end to heat through.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, it works well, but homemade sauce offers richer flavor and creamier texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta or spiralized vegetables as a substitute.

How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Avoid boiling the cream, and add cheese gradually while stirring continuously.

Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Pasta?

It’s not recommended to freeze as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

Can I use low-fat cream or milk?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

Can I add mushrooms or other vegetables?

Absolutely, sauté them with the garlic before adding the cream for extra flavor.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately and combine with pasta just before serving.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Simmer gently until it reduces or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.

Can I use Parmesan cheese from a jar?

Yes, it works, but freshly grated Parmesan provides better flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and rich Alfredo sauce. Quick to prepare yet impressive, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a delicious balance of flavors and textures in every bite.

Jane