This creamy Fettuccine Alfredo with chicken is like a warm hug on a plate! The rich sauce, made with butter and cheese, coats perfectly cooked fettuccine and tender chicken.
You can’t go wrong with a dish that makes everyone smile. I love making this when friends are over; trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This flat pasta is perfect for holding the creamy sauce. If you don’t have fettuccine, you can easily swap it for tagliatelle or even spaghetti!
Chicken: I love skinless chicken breasts for their mild flavor and texture. Thighs also work well for a juicier bite, and you can even use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time!
Heavy Cream: This is what gives the sauce its rich creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or evaporated milk can work too, but the sauce may not be as thick.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key for flavor. You can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or use nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
Nutmeg: This adds a hint of warmth to the sauce. You can skip it if you prefer, but it’s a lovely touch in creamy dishes.
How Do You Get Your Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly ensures it’s juicy and flavorful, which is essential for this dish. Here’s how you can achieve that:
- Start by seasoning the chicken well with salt and pepper for great flavor.
- Heat the skillet before adding the chicken to get that beautiful golden color. Medium-high heat is ideal.
- Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes; it’s important not to flip too soon! Let it sear before you check. A good tip is to leave it alone for the first few minutes.
- Once done, let the chicken rest before slicing. This keeps its juices locked in.
Taking your time with this step will elevate the overall dish, ensuring every bite is delicious!
Fettuccine Alfredo With Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta and Chicken:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For The Alfredo Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and chicken, and around 20 minutes making the creamy Alfredo sauce and combining everything. Perfect for a delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Fettuccine:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for now.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Allow it to melt, then add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it slightly thickens.
4. Combine Everything:
Now, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the nutmeg, if you’re using it. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Add the drained fettuccine to the sauce and gently toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.
5. Plate and Serve:
To serve, place the creamy Alfredo pasta on a plate and top it with the sliced grilled chicken breasts. Finish it off by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper. Enjoy your delicious, homemade Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken!
Your family and friends will love this comforting dish that feels both fancy and warm!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Fettuccine?
Absolutely! Whole wheat fettuccine is a great alternative and adds a nutty flavor. Just be mindful to adjust the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta may need a few extra minutes to cook.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding sautéed vegetables such as broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. You could also use tempeh or tofu for a protein boost.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I Use Other Cheeses?
Definitely! While Parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Asiago for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to grate or shred them finely for easy melting.
