Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe – Comforting Chicken Pasta for Dinner
Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This creamy chicken Alfredo pasta is the ultimate comfort food, with its rich Alfredo sauce and tender chicken. It's the perfect meal to make after a long day, as it's quick to prepare, yet indulgent and satisfying. What sets this recipe apart is the homemade Alfredo sauce—creamy, buttery, and made with just a few simple ingredients. Unlike store-bought versions, our homemade sauce is made from scratch, giving you full control over the flavor and texture.
The chicken in this recipe is seasoned and pan-seared to perfection, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor. This dish is the ideal balance of comforting, flavorful, and easy to prepare—making it a go-to for any occasion. Whether you’re having a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this pasta recipe will surely impress.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for a thicker sauce)
- 1 package fettuccine pasta (or your preferred pasta)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, but reserve about 1 cup of the cooking water in case you need to thin out the sauce later.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Slowly add the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk in the cornstarch at this point. The cornstarch will help the sauce thicken and coat the pasta more evenly.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Once the Alfredo sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Continue tossing until the pasta is well coated and the sauce clings to every noodle.
Step 5: Serve
Plate the creamy chicken Alfredo pasta, and top with the sliced chicken. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan and fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Helpful Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor in your sauce. Pre-grated Parmesan can result in a grainy sauce.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a bit of pasta water to thin it out. The starch in the water helps the sauce adhere to the pasta better.
- Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes to give the sauce an extra layer of flavor. You can also incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added depth.
- Make It Lighter: If you’re looking to lighten up the dish, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and chicken broth in place of the heavy cream.
How to Customize Your Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- Add Vegetables: Add spinach, peas, or roasted broccoli for added nutrients and color.
- Swap the Protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily swap it for shrimp, turkey, or even crispy tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Make It Spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat and add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. Stir frequently until heated through. Avoid microwaving the pasta as it can cause the sauce to separate and the pasta to become mushy.
Conclusion – Why You Should Try This Recipe
This creamy chicken Alfredo pasta recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, comforting meals. The homemade Alfredo sauce is creamy and flavorful, the chicken is juicy and perfectly seasoned, and the pasta is a satisfying base for this indulgent dish. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just making a quick family dinner, this recipe will surely become a new favorite.
For more delicious Desserts and healthy Gluten-Free recipes, check out our other collections. You can also explore more Dinners for tasty meal ideas!