Best Chicken Alfredo Recipe | Healthy & Delicious Pasta

Nothing beats a classic Chicken Alfredo when you’re craving a rich, creamy pasta dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. This recipe for Chicken Alfredo is simple, yet indulgent, with tender chicken breasts paired with perfectly cooked fettuccine and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce. It’s a comforting dish that combines all the flavors you love, but with a balanced twist that makes it feel a little lighter. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or preparing a special meal for yourself, this chicken Alfredo is sure to become a favorite.

The secret to a perfect Chicken Alfredo lies in the sauce. It’s velvety smooth, thanks to the heavy cream and butter, with just the right amount of garlic and Italian seasoning to make it flavorful without being overwhelming. The addition of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds richness and depth to the sauce. By seasoning the chicken with a blend of Italian spices, the dish gets an extra layer of savory goodness. Paired with tender fettuccine, it’s a complete, satisfying meal that’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Alfredo is the epitome of comfort food with a touch of elegance. The creamy sauce is rich but not too heavy, thanks to the use of fresh ingredients and careful balance of flavors. The grilled chicken breasts provide a healthy source of lean protein, making it a great option for those looking to indulge without overdoing it. It’s a one-pan meal that’s quick to make and can be easily customized with additional herbs or vegetables. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta:

• 10 oz (280g) fettuccine or linguine
• 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 1 stick (8 tbsp or 113g) unsalted butter
• 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 1/4 cups (125g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Variations

Veggie Alfredo

Add in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to make this dish more nutrient-packed and colorful. You can stir the veggies into the sauce or serve them on the side.

Spicy Chicken Alfredo

If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce or season the chicken with cayenne pepper to spice things up. It adds an exciting kick to the otherwise creamy dish.

Shrimp Alfredo

For a seafood twist, swap out the chicken for shrimp. Cook the shrimp in the same skillet as the chicken, and follow the recipe as usual. Shrimp Alfredo is a delicious alternative that’s just as satisfying.

Lightened-Up Alfredo

To make a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and a little bit of cornstarch to thicken it. You can also reduce the amount of butter and cheese for a healthier alternative.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Season the chicken

In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with this spice mixture.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest before slicing it into thin strips.

Step 3: Boil the pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add Parmesan cheese

Once the cream has simmered for a couple of minutes, gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Combine the pasta and sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it’s fully coated. If the sauce needs thinning, add a bit more of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the perfect creamy texture.

Step 7: Slice the chicken

Slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips and arrange them on top of the pasta.

Step 8: Garnish and serve

Garnish the Chicken Alfredo with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken just until it’s done to avoid dry, tough meat. The chicken should be golden on the outside and juicy on the inside.
• Use fresh Parmesan cheese: For the best flavor and texture, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese often contains fillers that can affect the sauce’s smoothness.
• Adjust the sauce consistency: If your Alfredo sauce is too thick, simply add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. The starchy water helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
• Add some veggies: To make this dish even more flavorful, feel free to toss in sautéed vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms for added nutrition and color.

How to Serve

Chicken Alfredo pairs perfectly with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also add some freshly baked breadsticks or a light tomato salad for a complete meal. The rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken are complemented beautifully by the freshness of a green salad or a tangy vinaigrette.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop with a little splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but keep in mind that the sauce may separate a bit upon thawing. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftover Chicken Alfredo in a skillet over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave it, but be sure to stir every 30 seconds to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with linguine, spaghetti, or even penne, depending on your preference.

2. Can I make this dish without heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cornstarch as a lighter alternative to heavy cream.

3. Can I add other meats?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

4. Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Alfredo sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stove before mixing with the pasta.

5. How can I make the dish spicier?

To add some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add a bit of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

6. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

While homemade Alfredo sauce is always the best, you can use store-bought sauce in a pinch. Just make sure to enhance it with some garlic and Italian seasoning for added flavor.

7. Can I substitute the chicken for something else?

You can easily replace the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

8. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

To prevent the pasta from sticking, be sure to stir it occasionally while it cooks and toss it in a little olive oil or butter once drained.

9. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute for the Parmesan.

10. Can I add extra vegetables to the pasta?

Yes, you can add sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.

Conclusion

This Best Chicken Alfredo Recipe offers a deliciously creamy, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. With tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful Alfredo sauce, this dish has all the elements of a comforting and indulgent dinner. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving something comforting on a busy weeknight, this recipe will not disappoint.

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