Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic Italian-inspired dish that features tender chicken breasts served over creamy, cheesy fettuccine noodles. This indulgent and satisfying meal is perfect for date nights, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving a comforting and delicious pasta dish. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create restaurant-quality Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo right in your own kitchen.

Why Make Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, combining juicy chicken with rich and creamy Alfredo sauce tossed with al dente fettuccine noodles. It’s a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Plus, by making it at home, you can customize the dish to your liking and enjoy it fresh and piping hot straight from the stove.

List of Ingredients

Chicken breasts
Olive oil
Salt
Fresh ground black pepper
Dried Italian seasoning
Unsalted butter
Garlic
Heavy cream
Fresh grated Parmesan cheese
Fettuccine noodles

How to Make Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Chicken:

Drizzle and rub 1 tablespoon of olive oil on the chicken breasts. Season with salt, fresh ground black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning.
Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet, cover loosely with aluminum foil, and let it rest on a cutting board.

Fettuccine Alfredo:

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Whisk in the heavy cream, salt, fresh ground black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. Simmer until slightly thickened, but do not boil.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Assembly:

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine noodles al dente according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain well.
Add the cooked fettuccine noodles to the Alfredo sauce. Slice the chicken breasts thinly and add them to the pasta.
Season with additional salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo hot, garnished with chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage Information

Store any leftover Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce if necessary.

Some Techniques or Tips

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking to ensure they cook evenly.
For extra flavor, you can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the Alfredo sauce.
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.

Variation

For a lighter version of Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. You can also add cooked broccoli florets or peas to the pasta for added color and nutrition.

FAQs about Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken. Simply slice or shred the chicken and add it to the pasta when tossing with the Alfredo sauce.

Can I freeze Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo? While you can freeze leftover Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo, the sauce may separate upon thawing and reheating. It’s best to enjoy the dish fresh for the best taste and texture.

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as linguine, spaghetti, or penne, in place of fettuccine noodles. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the type of pasta you choose.