The Ultimate Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo: Creamy, Dreamy Pasta Perfection

Key Information

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 25 minutes

Total time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Difficulty: Easy

Dietary tags: Non-vegetarian, Contains dairy, Contains gluten

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Stock pot
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional: Garlic powder or paprika

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 1.5 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz fettuccine
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Method

1. Prep Work

• Salt boiling water for pasta
• Slice chicken breasts into even strips
• Mince garlic
• Grate parmesan cheese freshly

2. Cook Pasta

• Cook fettuccine until al dente
• Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water
• Drain and set aside

3. Sear Chicken

• Season chicken with salt, pepper
• Heat olive oil in skillet
• Cook chicken 5-6 minutes per side
• Ensure internal temp reaches 165°F
• Remove and let rest

4. Create Alfredo Sauce

• In same skillet, add butter
• Sauté garlic until fragrant (1-2 minutes)
• Pour in heavy cream
• Simmer gently (do not boil)
• Whisk in parmesan gradually
• Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg

5. Combine

• Add pasta to sauce
• Toss to coat completely
• Add pasta water if sauce is too thick
• Slice chicken, return to pan
• Warm through

Crucial Tips

• Always grate parmesan fresh
• Don’t overcook cream sauce
• Reserve pasta water for perfect consistency
• Let chicken rest before slicing

Storage

• Refrigerate: 4-5 days
• Freeze: Up to 3 months
• Reheat gently with splash of cream

Variations

• Swap chicken for shrimp
• Add mushrooms or broccoli
• Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep
• Vegetarian version: Omit chicken

Pro Secrets

• Dusting chicken in flour creates crispy exterior
• Use high-quality parmesan
• Fresh garlic beats powdered every time

Nutritional Highlight

High protein, rich in calcium, indulgent comfort food

Enjoy your restaurant-quality pasta at home!