Name: Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley optional

Creamy, dreamy, and full of flavor, Chicken Alfredo Pasta is the comfort food your weeknight dinner lineup has been craving. Imagine tender grilled chicken nestled over a bed of silky fettuccine, all coated in a luxurious homemade Alfredo sauce that’s rich with parmesan and garlic. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy but comes together in under 30 minutes—yes, really.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this dish never disappoints. The velvety sauce clings to every strand of pasta, and the golden-seared chicken provides the perfect contrast in both taste and texture. Paired with a crisp green salad or buttery garlic bread, Chicken Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate indulgent classic.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Effortlessly Elegant: Looks restaurant-worthy but requires basic ingredients and simple steps.
Family-Friendly: Kids love it, adults rave about it—everyone asks for seconds.
Versatile: Swap the chicken for shrimp or roasted veggies for a quick twist.
One Pan Option: Make it all in a single skillet for easier cleanup.
Make Ahead: Alfredo sauce keeps well for days, so prep it in advance.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making a creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta doesn’t require a gourmet kitchen—just a few essentials that make all the difference:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: To sear the chicken and later combine the pasta and sauce. A nonstick or stainless-steel skillet works best for even browning.
Medium Saucepan: Ideal for preparing the Alfredo sauce separately if needed.
Pasta Pot with Strainer: Boiling fettuccine to a perfect al dente is a must.
Tongs: To toss the pasta and evenly coat it with sauce.
Meat Thermometer: Optional but helpful for ensuring the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Ingredients for the Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Chicken Breasts: The protein star of the dish. Searing adds golden flavor.
Fettuccine Pasta: Flat and wide, it holds creamy sauces like a champ.
Heavy Cream: The base of that rich, silky Alfredo sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is key for a smooth, cheesy texture.
Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic warmth.
Butter: Combines with cream for a luscious base.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.
Olive Oil: Helps achieve that perfect golden crust on the chicken.
Fresh Parsley (Optional): For garnish and a pop of freshness.

How To Make the Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a hot skillet with olive oil, sear them on both sides until golden and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Let them rest, then slice.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 3-4 minutes, then slowly add the parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and thick.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked fettuccine into the Alfredo sauce using tongs until fully coated. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Add the Chicken

Top the saucy pasta with sliced chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Serving & Storing Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Serve your Chicken Alfredo Pasta straight from the pan while the sauce is creamy and hot. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread, steamed broccoli, or a crisp Caesar salad.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

Freezing isn’t ideal as the sauce may separate, but the cooked chicken can be frozen separately for later use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, linguine, or even spaghetti work well if fettuccine isn’t on hand.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken can save time. Just slice and heat before adding to the sauce.

How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from clumping?

Use freshly grated parmesan and whisk continuously while adding to warm (not boiling) cream.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Definitely. Use gluten-free pasta and check your parmesan and seasonings for additives.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese can work, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all! But you can add red pepper flakes if you’d like a kick.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta, you’ll definitely want to explore these other comforting favorites:

One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta for a smoky-creamy twist.
Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti packed with gooey cheese in every bite.
Creamy Garlic Butter Beef & Spinach Tortellini if you’re craving something a little extra indulgent.
Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce to mix crispy texture with creamy dreams.
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls & Creamy Parmesan Pasta for a fun bite-sized variation.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes? Try it with shrimp instead of chicken?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.