Description
A restaurant-quality Chicken Alfredo Pasta that comes together in under 40 minutes. Silky fettuccine coated in a luxurious, velvety cream sauce with golden-brown chicken slices, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This foolproof recipe delivers comfort food perfection with pantry-friendly ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) fettuccine pasta
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and let rest for 5 minutes.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add nutmeg.
- Slice the rested chicken into strips.
- Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed for desired consistency.
- Top with sliced chicken and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for more uniform cooking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the smoothest sauce — pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
- Reserve pasta water before draining — the starch helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
- Don’t boil the sauce after adding cheese to prevent separation.
- Let chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Add cooked broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days — add a splash of cream when reheating.
Nutrition
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