Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo! This classic Italian dish features tender fettuccine pasta coated in a velvety Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, topped with juicy, seasoned chicken. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With just a few simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. If using garlic, add it during the last minute of cooking for added flavor. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Add the drained fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Slice the cooked chicken breasts and arrange them on top of the pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Variations & Substitutions: - Add Vegetables: Incorporate steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for added nutrition and color. - Protein Alternatives: Substitute grilled shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for the chicken for a different flavor profile. - Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter for a lighter version. Storage & Reheating Instructions: - Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 763mg
- Fat: 29.75g
- Saturated Fat: 15.47g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14.28g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55.79g
- Fiber: 2.4g
- Protein: 37.99g
- Cholesterol: 118mg