Delicious Homemade Chicken Alfredo Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting plate of creamy pasta, and the homemade chicken Alfredo recipe is a standout favorite among pasta lovers. This classic dish combines tender pieces of chicken with a luxuriously creamy Alfredo sauce, all nestled atop perfectly cooked fettuccine. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking to impress a dinner guest, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Growing up, chicken Alfredo was a staple in our household. My mom would make it every Sunday, and the aroma of butter and garlic sizzling would fill our home with warmth. Over the years, I’ve added my own twists to the recipe, but I still remember those early Sundays where the family gathered around the table with hearty appetites and animated chatter, all centered around this cherished dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out because it uses fresh ingredients and offers a creamy texture that is unmatched by store-bought sauces. The combination of Parmesan cheese with butter and cream creates a rich, decadent flavor, while the addition of perfectly seasoned chicken adds protein and heartiness to the meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients Notes

For the best results, use fresh Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated varieties, as it melts better and offers a more authentic flavor. Choosing organic chicken breasts ensures tender and juicy meat. If you’re out of fettuccine, you can substitute with your favorite pasta, but note that the traditional choice really allows the sauce to cling perfectly to each strand.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3

Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and thickened.

Step 4

Slice the chicken and return it to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5

Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and add the pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat in the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or extra cheese if desired.

Storage Options

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a tablespoon of milk or cream to the pasta to loosen the sauce, and warm it in a skillet over low heat. This dish also freezes well; however, note that the texture of the sauce may slightly change when thawed and reheated.

Variations & Substitutions

For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half & half or use a plant-based milk alternative. If you’re looking to add vegetables, consider stirring in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! While Parmesan is traditional, you can use Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the salt as these cheeses can be saltier.

How can I make this dish gluten-free? Simply substitute the fettuccine with a gluten-free pasta option. Ensure that other ingredients such as the chicken broth, if using, are also gluten-free.

Is there a way to make this meal vegetarian? Yes! You can omit the chicken and substitute with vegetables like broccoli or zucchini. Alternatively, use a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh to maintain a similar texture.

Delicious Homemade Chicken Alfredo Recipe

This homemade Chicken Alfredo recipe is creamy, comforting, and indulgent, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1 lb chicken breast boneless, skinless, cut into strips
• ▢ 2 cups heavy cream
• ▢ 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
• ▢ 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• ▢ 1 tbsp olive oil
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ 1 tsp salt to taste
• ▢ 0.5 tsp black pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 7-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Reduce heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and black pepper. Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until evenly coated.
• Serve the Chicken Alfredo hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.