Creamy Chicken Alfredo

Creamy Chicken Alfredo is a rich, velvety pasta dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken in a luscious Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a comforting classic that combines elegance with simplicity, making it a perfect meal for weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Italian-American comfort food
• Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor
• Family-friendly and kid-approved
• Easy to make in under 40 minutes
• Versatile — add veggies or swap proteins
• Restaurant-quality dish you can make at home

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil or butter (for cooking chicken)
• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic (minced)
• Heavy cream
• Unsalted butter
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fettuccine or pasta of choice
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Optional: Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, or spinach

Directions

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if desired.
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice.
3. In a large pot, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Add sliced chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce.
8. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. Prep time is about 10 minutes and cook time is 25–30 minutes, so it’s ready in approximately 35–40 minutes.

Variations

• Use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken
• Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or peas for added nutrition
• Swap fettuccine for penne, linguine, or gluten-free pasta
• Add a dash of nutmeg or lemon zest for extra depth
• Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid boiling to prevent the sauce from separating. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the dairy content.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Alfredo ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Reheat with a splash of cream to revive the sauce.

What pasta works best with Alfredo sauce?

Fettuccine is classic, but penne, linguine, or tagliatelle work well too.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be lighter and less rich. Add a bit of flour or cream cheese to thicken.

What kind of Parmesan cheese should I use?

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Simmer gently and avoid high heat after adding cheese.

Is Chicken Alfredo gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your other ingredients are GF-certified.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it’s a great time-saver. Just warm it in the sauce before serving.

Can I make this without butter?

Yes, use olive oil instead, but butter adds richness to the sauce.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer longer to reduce, or add extra cheese or a cornstarch slurry.

What sides go well with Chicken Alfredo?

Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted broccoli, or steamed green beans.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Alfredo is a timeless dish that combines tender chicken and silky cheese sauce for a truly comforting meal. With just a handful of ingredients and easy steps, it’s a foolproof way to bring restaurant-quality pasta to your dinner table.

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