Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Alfredo is a classic pasta dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Not only is it creamy and delicious, but it can also be made healthier without sacrificing flavor. This recipe offers a quick way to prepare Chicken Alfredo with lean chicken, fresh ingredients, and a homemade sauce that beats store-bought varieties any day. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties.

How to Make Best Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
10 oz (280g) fettuccine or linguine
1 tsp salt (for boiling water)
1 stick (8 tbsp or 113g) unsalted butter
2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 1/4 cups (125g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Directions:

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly. Lower the heat and gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing gently to coat the noodles in the sauce.
Serve: Top with sliced chicken, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

How to Serve Best Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Chicken Alfredo is best served fresh and warm straight from the stove. You can plate it individually or serve it family-style in a large dish. Adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a twist of black pepper on top can enhance the look and flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Best Chicken Alfredo Recipe

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place the Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of cream or milk to help revive the sauce if it seems too thick.

Tips to Make Best Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the herbs and garlic.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste; feel free to add more garlic or cheese if you like.
Cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when added to the sauce.
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.

Variation

You can customize this Chicken Alfredo recipe by adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a nutrient boost. For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat pasta or reducing the amount of cream and butter.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can work well and add extra flavor due to their higher fat content.

2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream, but keep in mind that this may provide a lighter texture.

3. Can I make Chicken Alfredo ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time. Store it in the fridge and simply reheat and combine with cooked pasta and chicken when ready to serve.