Did you know a single Creamy Chicken Alfredo recipe post got 26,182 shares? This shows how much people love this comfort food. If you’re searching for easy dinner ideas, you’re in the right spot!
I’m excited to share my favorite chicken alfredo recipe. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for any night. You’ll need just 35 minutes to make it, and it serves 6 people.
Each serving has 831 calories, but it’s so worth it. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta make it irresistible. It’s great for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests.
Are you ready to make this cheesy, garlicky dish? It’s easy with just 3 chicken breasts, 12 ounces of fettuccine, and a few simple ingredients. You’ll make a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant. Plus, making it yourself can save you up to 50% on groceries. That’s good for your taste buds and your wallet!
The Perfect Italian-American Comfort Food Classic
Chicken Alfredo is a favorite in Italian-American cuisine. It’s creamy, indulgent, and combines tender chicken with a velvety sauce and cooked pasta. Let’s explore its history and why it’s so comforting.
History of Chicken Alfredo
In Rome, Alfredo di Lelio made a simple pasta dish for his pregnant wife. This dish evolved into the creamy sauce we love today. When it came to America, chicken was added, making it the hearty dish we enjoy.
What Makes Alfredo Sauce Special
Homemade alfredo sauce is the dish’s heart. It’s made with heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. This sauce coats the pasta, making it smooth and rich. Unlike some Italian sauces, alfredo is quick to make, perfect for busy cooks.
Why This Recipe Works
Our simple chicken alfredo recipe is a perfect mix of ease and flavor. It uses easy-to-find ingredients and simple techniques. You can make a restaurant-quality meal in about 30 minutes. Here’s why this recipe is a winner:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Quick cooking time | Ready in just 30 minutes |
| Simple ingredients | Easy to find and budget-friendly |
| Versatile | Can be customized with different add-ins |
| High protein | 45.9g per serving (91.9% daily value) |
| Crowd-pleaser | 4.99/5 rating from 285 reviews |
This chicken alfredo recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s perfect for both new cooks and seasoned ones. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it a joy to make and eat.
Essential Ingredients for the Best Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Let’s explore the key ingredients of our chicken alfredo recipe. Each part is important for a delicious dish. It’s what makes your meal so comforting.
Choosing the Right Pasta
Fettuccine is the top choice for chicken alfredo. Its wide shape catches the sauce well. Cook 8 ounces for 10 minutes until it’s just right. This makes 4 servings and costs about $0.88.
Chicken and Seasoning Components
You’ll need 1.3 lbs of chicken breasts, which cost about $6.49. Season them with 2 tsp of Italian seasoning. Cook for 7-8 minutes on each side until they’re 165ยฐF. Let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Alfredo Sauce Ingredients
The garlic butter sauce is the main attraction. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 4 minced garlic cloves. Add 1 cup of heavy cream and 3/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese. This mix is the heart of our alfredo sauce.
Optional Add-ins and Variations
Want to make your chicken alfredo special? Add steamed broccoli, sautรฉed mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. For a lighter version, use whole milk instead of heavy cream. The best recipes are the ones you customize!
| Ingredient | Amount | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Fettuccine | 8 oz | $0.88 |
| Chicken Breasts | 1.3 lbs | $6.49 |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup | $1.25 |
| Parmesan Cheese | 3/4 cup | $1.08 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Ready to make a delicious chicken alfredo pasta? Let’s start cooking! This recipe takes about 35 minutes to make and serves 6 people. Get your large skillet ready, and let’s begin!
Preparing the Chicken
First, season 1 lb of boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165ยฐF. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest under foil for 5 minutes before slicing.
Making the Perfect Alfredo Sauce
Now, let’s make the alfredo sauce! In the same skillet, melt ยฝ cup of butter. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Mix in 8 oz of cream cheese and 1ยฝ cups of heavy cream. Simmer for 3 minutes, then remove from heat and whisk in 8 oz of grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Cooking and Combining Components
While making the sauce, cook 12 oz of fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the alfredo sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Add the sliced chicken and gently mix. Garnish with 1 tbsp of freshly chopped parsley.
Your creamy chicken alfredo pasta is ready to serve! Each portion has about 938 calories, 42g of protein, and 65g of fat. Enjoy your homemade Italian-American comfort food classic!
Pro Tips for Restaurant-Quality Results
Want to make the best chicken alfredo recipe ever? I’ve got some pro tips to help you out! First, use freshly grated parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded cheese can make your sauce grainy. Grate it yourself for a smooth, velvety texture.
When cooking your chicken breasts, aim for an internal temperature of 165ยฐF. This usually takes about 6-7 minutes per side over medium-high heat. For extra tenderness, pound the fillets to a ยฝ inch thickness before cooking.
For the pasta, cook it al dente – typically 8-10 minutes for fettuccine. Reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust your sauce consistency later. Speaking of sauce, never let it boil! Simmer on low heat to thicken naturally, and aim for a serving temperature of 170ยฐF.
- Use high-quality ingredients for restaurant-worthy results
- Season chicken with a blend of paprika, brown sugar, and black pepper
- For a lighter version, substitute milk for heavy cream
Remember, this recipe is customizable. Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni. With these tips, you’ll create a chicken alfredo that rivals any restaurant dish!
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Got leftovers? Let’s talk about keeping your chicken alfredo fresh and tasty. Proper storage and reheating can make your meal just as delicious the next day.
Proper Storage Methods
Store your cooked pasta dish in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay good for 3 to 5 days. If you won’t eat it within that time, freeze it! Frozen chicken alfredo lasts up to 2 months.
Pro tip: add a tablespoon of oil for every 8 ounces of cooked pasta before freezing to prevent sticking.
Best Reheating Practices
Microwave: Heat in one-minute bursts, usually taking 2-3 minutes total. Add a splash of water to keep it creamy. Oven: Preheat to 375ยฐF, heat for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through. Stovetop: Use medium-low heat, add a bit of water or milk, and stir until hot.
Make-Ahead Options
Want to prep ahead? Cook your pasta al dente and store it separately from your cream cheese sauce. When ready to eat, reheat the sauce, adding a little milk if needed. Toss in the pasta and heat for 30 minutes. This method works great with pre-shredded cheese too!
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated (cooked) | 3-5 days | Store in airtight container |
| Frozen (cooked) | Up to 2 months | Add oil before freezing |
| Pantry (dried pasta) | 1+ year | Store in cool, dry place |
Conclusion
Chicken Alfredo has become a favorite dish in many homes. It started in 1907 and has grown in popularity. This dish is known for its creamy sauce and tender chicken.
The recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for any day. Cooking the pasta just right and adding chicken with olive oil are key steps. These steps help create a delicious sauce that sticks to the pasta.
Preparing Chicken Alfredo is quick, taking only 23 minutes to cook and 10 minutes to prepare. It serves 6 people, providing 47g of protein and 64g of carbs per serving. You can also add broccoli or mushrooms to make it even better. Now, you can impress your loved ones with this classic dish!
FAQ – Chicken Alfredo
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Using pre-cooked chicken saves time. Just add it to the sauce near the end to warm it up.
What’s the best pasta to use for chicken alfredo?
Fettuccine is traditional, but any pasta works. Penne, linguine, or spaghetti are good choices. Cook it al dente for the best texture.
Can I make this recipe lighter or healthier?
Sure! Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. Whole wheat pasta adds fiber. Adding veggies like broccoli or spinach boosts nutrition.
How long does homemade alfredo sauce last in the fridge?
Homemade alfredo sauce lasts 3-4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Reheat it gently to prevent separation.
Can I freeze chicken alfredo?
You can freeze it, but the sauce might separate. Thaw it in the fridge and reheat gently. Stir frequently and add cream if needed.
What can I serve with chicken alfredo?
Serve it with a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies. A light side dish balances the sauce’s richness.
Is it necessary to use fresh parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated parmesan is best for flavor and melting. Pre-grated cheese can affect the sauce’s texture due to anti-caking agents.
Can I make this recipe without chicken for a vegetarian version?
Absolutely! Omit the chicken or add sautรฉed mushrooms, roasted veggies, or plant-based proteins for a vegetarian version.
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Ingredients
- Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine
- Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tsp olive oil
- Alfredo Sauce:
- ยฝ cup butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1ยฝ cups heavy cream
- 8 oz grated Parmesan cheese
- Garnish:
- 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preparing the Chicken:
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165ยฐF.
- Remove from the skillet, cover with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Making the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt ยฝ cup butter.
- Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in 8 oz cream cheese and 1ยฝ cups heavy cream.
- Simmer for 3 minutes, then remove from heat and whisk in 8 oz grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Cooking the Pasta & Combining:
- Cook 12 oz fettuccine according to package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat.
- Add sliced chicken and mix gently.
- Garnish with 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley.
Notes
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese may cause the sauce to be grainy.
- Cook Chicken Evenly: Pound fillets to ยฝ-inch thickness before cooking.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: Reserve 1 cup of pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
- Make it Lighter: Substitute milk or half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Storage: Keep refrigerated for 3-5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove with added milk or water.
