Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo: Creamy Comfort Food

Delight in the rich, creamy goodness of Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, a classic Italian-American dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. This recipe features tender chicken breast, perfectly cooked fettuccine, and a luscious Alfredo sauce made from scratch. Simple yet decadent, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Let’s create this comforting delight together!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces fettuccine
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing into thin strips.
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
4. Combine Everything: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Add the sliced chicken on top and gently mix to combine.
5. Serve: Divide the Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo among serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

How to Prepare

The secret to an amazing Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo lies in the creamy, homemade Alfredo sauce. Using heavy cream and real Parmesan cheese ensures a rich and velvety texture. Cooking the chicken in the same skillet used for the sauce adds extra flavor. Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as al dente fettuccine will hold up better in the creamy sauce. For the best presentation, slice the chicken thinly and arrange it artfully on top of the pasta.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: About 35 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4 people.

FAQs

1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? While heavy cream provides the best texture, you can use whole milk for a lighter version. The sauce may be thinner, so you might need to cook it a bit longer to thicken.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead. Cook the chicken and make the sauce, then reheat gently and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
3. What can I serve with Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo? A crisp Caesar salad and garlic bread are classic sides that complement this dish perfectly.
4. Can I add vegetables to this recipe? Absolutely. Steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas make great additions to Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo.
5. How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid using the microwave, as it can dry out the chicken and sauce.