Chicken Alfredo is a true comfort classic—tender pan-seared chicken served over silky fettuccine coated in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. This restaurant-style dish is surprisingly easy to make at home using simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Whether you're preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this Chicken Alfredo Recipe delivers consistent flavor, satisfying texture, and that irresistible creamy-garlic aroma that always wins over the crowd. With a few helpful tips and best practices, you’ll create a beautifully smooth Alfredo sauce and perfectly cooked pasta every time.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 4
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional but traditional)
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces of fettuccine
- Salt for pasta water
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry and season on both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest before slicing.
Tip: Resting the chicken ensures juiciness and keeps the slices tender when added to the pasta.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and melt. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer—not a boil. Add Parmesan gradually, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy.
Best Practice: Always use freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add drained fettuccine to the skillet and toss until fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen as needed.
Step 5: Serve
Top the creamy pasta with sliced chicken. Garnish with additional Parmesan, black pepper, or chopped parsley if desired.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated values
- Calories: 720
- Total Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 48g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Total Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 46g
Conclusion
This Chicken Alfredo Recipe is a timeless comfort dish that delivers creamy, savory perfection in every bite. With a rich homemade Alfredo sauce, tender seasoned chicken, and classic fettuccine, it’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet easy enough for any night of the week. Follow the included best practices—like using freshly grated cheese and reserving pasta water—to create a smooth, well-balanced sauce every time. Serve immediately for the creamiest results, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner right from your own kitchen. Let this dish become a staple in your recipe rotation!
