Chicken Alfredo is a classic comfort dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. Perfect for a satisfying dinner, this rich pasta recipe features tender, pan-seared chicken and a silky homemade Alfredo sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. This simple yet indulgent dish can be served as a main course for family dinners or as an impressive meal for guests.
Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the chicken. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
Make the Alfredo sauce. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently for 5-6 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add Parmesan. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine. Toss the cooked fettuccine in the Alfredo sauce, ensuring the pasta is well-coated. Add the sliced chicken on top and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve. Plate the Chicken Alfredo while hot and serve immediately.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce, as pre-grated cheese may not melt as well. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little pasta water. For added flavor, season the chicken with Italian herbs or a pinch of paprika. Want a lighter version? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.