Creamy, comforting, and rich in flavor, Chicken Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate dinner indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight meal or impressing dinner guests, this dish delivers restaurant-style taste with simple, wholesome ingredients. The golden-seared chicken paired with silky fettuccine noodles drenched in a homemade Alfredo sauce makes every bite feel like a warm hug.

What makes this recipe truly magical is how quickly it comes together without sacrificing flavor. It’s creamy without being too heavy, and the balance between garlic, parmesan, and butter is just right. If you’re looking for a pasta dish that feels luxurious but is easy to prepare, this Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a must-try.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Chicken Alfredo Pasta?

Fettuccine is the classic choice because its wide, flat shape holds the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully. However, if you only have linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne on hand, feel free to substitute! The sauce is the star here, and it clings well to most pasta shapes.

Ingredients for the Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for juicy, golden-brown slices that sit perfectly on the pasta.

Fettuccine Pasta: This pasta’s thickness works perfectly with the creamy sauce. Cook it al dente for the best texture.

Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creates the luscious texture of the Alfredo sauce.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, giving it that signature salty, nutty flavor.

Garlic: Sautéed garlic brings a depth of flavor that balances the richness of the cream.

Butter: Used for both cooking the garlic and starting the base of the Alfredo sauce. It also adds a velvety finish.

Olive Oil: Helps to sear the chicken evenly and adds a hint of fruity flavor.

Salt & Black Pepper: Seasoning the chicken and the sauce enhances all the other flavors.

Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds freshness and color as a finishing touch.

How To Make the Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear until golden brown on each side and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove and let them rest before slicing into strips.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine until al dente according to the package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir continuously, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly, about 4–5 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in the Parmesan

Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Nestle in the sliced chicken, allowing it to soak up some of the sauce. Cook for 1–2 more minutes to heat everything through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Plate the pasta and top with additional Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while it’s warm and creamy.

Serving and Storing Chicken Alfredo Pasta

This Chicken Alfredo Pasta is best served hot right out of the skillet. The creamy sauce is at its silkiest when freshly made, coating each strand of pasta and every slice of chicken in savory goodness. Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley for a restaurant-worthy touch. Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted garlic bread for a full meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce and revive its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may cause the sauce to separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of milk and a tablespoon of cream cheese. Just note the sauce might be slightly less rich.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and make sure your Parmesan and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from clumping?

Make sure to add the Parmesan cheese slowly over low heat and stir continuously. Adding it too quickly or over high heat can cause it to clump.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works well. Just slice and warm it in the sauce before serving.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s not ideal. Cream-based sauces tend to separate when thawed and reheated. For best results, enjoy fresh or refrigerate and consume within a few days.

What vegetables go well with Chicken Alfredo?

Steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach are great additions to boost nutrition and color.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta made your night, you might also fall in love with these other delicious, comfort-packed pasta recipes:

Each of these brings a unique spin on creamy, cozy pasta nights with easy steps and bold flavor.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s ready for your next pasta craving: Life with Jam on Pinterest

Tried this Chicken Alfredo Pasta? Leave a comment and tell us how it turned out. Did you add mushrooms, peas, or maybe a dash of nutmeg? I’d love to hear what made it yours. Your tweaks might inspire the next cook!

Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a creamy and comforting Italian-inspired dish made with tender seared chicken, rich homemade Alfredo sauce, and fettuccine pasta. It’s easy enough for weeknights and impressive enough for guests.