Simple Homemade Chicken Alfredo

January 20, 2025

Ready to wow your taste buds? This Simple Homemade Chicken Alfredo is creamy, dreamy, and downright irresistible! It's comfort food at its finest, and the best part? You can whip it up in no time. Let’s dive into this cheesy, saucy goodness together—your kitchen is about to smell amazing!

4.5 out of 5 (4 ratings)

Is there anything more comforting than a big, creamy bowl of pasta? I think not! And when it comes to classic pasta dishes, Chicken Alfredo takes the crown for being pure perfection. This Simple Homemade Chicken Alfredo is like a warm hug on a plate—rich, cheesy, and full of flavor. Plus, there's something so satisfying about making it yourself from scratch, knowing you don't need to rely on a jar of sauce. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is here to bring a little extra joy to your table!

What makes this dish truly special is its exquisite simplicity. Fresh garlic, rich heavy cream, butter, and parmesan are the dream team of ingredients, creating a velvety sauce that clings to every strand of fettuccine. The star, of course, is the tender, pan-seared chicken breast seasoned to perfection. And shall we talk about the nutmeg? Just a pinch of it gives the sauce depth and that indescribable “wow” factor. For extra flair, I like to throw in a handful of fresh parsley at the end—it brightens everything up and gives the dish a pop of freshness that takes it to the next level.

Now, let’s chat tips to make your Alfredo sing! First, use freshly grated parmesan—it melts beautifully and gives the sauce a silky texture. Pre-grated cheese can sometimes lead to a grainy consistency, so grab that trusty box grater! When cooking the chicken, make sure your pan is nice and hot; this creates a golden crust that brings flavor and texture to the party. Oh, and don’t forget to reserve a cup of pasta water before you drain your fettuccine! That starchy liquid is magic for adjusting the sauce consistency to your liking.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron and bring this irresistible dish to life! Serve your Chicken Alfredo with a simple green salad or some warm, crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce. You could even add some steamed broccoli or roasted mushrooms if you’re in the mood to mix things up. And if you're feeling experimental, why not swap out the chicken for shrimp or sautéed vegetables? The possibilities are endless, and every version will have you scraping the plate clean. Now, go forth and make dinner an occasion to remember!

Keywords: creamy chicken Alfredo recipe, easy homemade Alfredo sauce, best fettuccine Alfredo with chicken, quick chicken Alfredo dinner, how to make chicken Alfredo, simple Alfredo recipe from scratch, creamy pasta dishes ideas.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

Italian

Ingredients

•1 pound fettuccine pasta
•2 tablespoons unsalted butter
•2 cloves garlic, minced
•2 cups heavy cream
•1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
•1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
•2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or shredded
•Salt to taste
•Ground black pepper to taste
•2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1
Cook fettuccine pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
3
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
5
Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese and Pecorino Romano cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6
Season the sauce with salt and ground black pepper to taste.
7
Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir until well combined and heated through.
8
Toss the cooked fettuccine pasta with the sauce until evenly coated.
9
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories

650 calories

Protein

38g

Carbs

55g

Fat

32g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of fettuccine?

A: Yes, you can use other types of pasta such as linguine, spaghetti, or penne. However, fettuccine is traditionally used for Alfredo sauce because its wide, flat shape holds the creamy sauce well. Adjust cooking times based on the type of pasta you choose.

Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?

A: You can use half-and-half or whole milk as a substitute for heavy cream, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy. If using a lighter alternative, you can add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to the butter and garlic to help thicken the sauce.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have Pecorino Romano cheese?

A: If Pecorino Romano is unavailable, you can replace it with additional Parmesan cheese or even a similar hard cheese like Asiago. Keep in mind that Pecorino Romano has a slightly sharper, saltier flavor, so the taste may vary slightly.

Q: How can I avoid my sauce becoming grainy when adding the cheese?

A: To prevent a grainy texture, ensure the sauce is on low to medium heat when adding the cheese. Gradually whisk in the cheese in small amounts, allowing it to melt fully before adding more. Avoid boiling the sauce, as high heat can cause the cheese to separate.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked store-bought chicken instead of cooking my own?

A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken. Simply shred or slice it and add it to the sauce as instructed. Ensure the chicken is heated through before serving.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers, and how do I reheat them?

A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid overheating, as the sauce may separate.

Q: Can I add vegetables or other ingredients to this dish?

A: Absolutely! Steamed or sautéed vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms pair well with Alfredo sauce. You can also add crispy bacon, shrimp, or cooked sausage for extra flavor and protein. Add these ingredients at the same time as the cooked chicken or just before serving.

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