Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo for Cozy Pasta Nights

Nothing says cozy like a big bowl of Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo on a chilly night. I remember one winter evening when my son, Jake, declared this dish his favorite after just one bite! This Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo recipe is perfect for those pasta nights when you want something creamy and comforting.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
• The homemade Alfredo sauce is rich and creamy, way better than store-bought.
• You can customize it with veggies or different proteins.
• It’s a family favorite that brings everyone to the table.

Pure Comfort

Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food. The creamy Alfredo sauce hugs each strand of pasta, while the tender chicken adds heartiness. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for gathering around the dinner table with loved ones. Plus, it brings back memories of family dinners that make you feel right at home.

What You Need

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta – You can substitute with linguine or spaghetti.
• 2 chicken breasts – Boneless, skinless is best.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – Can use butter instead.
• 3 cloves garlic – Minced; fresh is best, but jarred works.
• 1 cup heavy cream – For a lighter version, use half-and-half.
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for best flavor.
• to taste salt – Add more if needed.
• to taste black pepper – Freshly cracked adds great flavor.

Time to Cook

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 30 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat.

Steps to Make It

1. Start by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Stir occasionally, and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, but save a cup of pasta water for later.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it into strips, and set aside. The aroma of the chicken will make your mouth water!
4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; you want it golden, not brown.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently, and let it thicken for about 3-4 minutes. The cream should bubble softly, creating a luscious sauce.
6. Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream, stirring until fully melted and combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Toss the cooked fettuccine and sliced chicken into the sauce. Mix well until everything is coated. The creamy sauce should cling to the pasta beautifully.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper. Enjoy the creamy goodness!

Make It Perfect

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor; pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as well.
• Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
• Feel free to add steamed broccoli or spinach for a veggie boost.
• If you’re a garlic lover, add more minced garlic for extra flavor.
• Keep an eye on the sauce; it can thicken quickly.

Mix It Up

• Add cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
• Swap chicken for grilled veggies for a vegetarian option.

Perfect Partners

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• A glass of white wine

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FAQs

Conclusion

Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. With this Chicken Alfredo Fettuccine recipe, you can enjoy a homemade Alfredo sauce that’s creamy and delicious. So gather your family, whip up this cozy pasta dish, and enjoy the smiles around the dinner table!