This creamy Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken is a pasta lover’s dream! With rich and velvety sauce, each bite is a hug for your taste buds, especially with tender pieces of chicken mixed in.
You can’t go wrong with this dish when you’re craving something comforting! I often whip it up on busy weeknights because it’s quick and easy to make. Plus, who doesn’t love cheesy pasta? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This wide noodle is perfect for creamy sauces. If you’re out of fettuccine, try linguine or spaghetti – they both work well too!
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is the way to go for easy cooking. You can substitute with cooked rotisserie chicken or even sliced turkey for a different flavor.
Heavy Cream: This is essential for a rich sauce. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk. For dairy-free, try coconut cream or cashew cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for a smooth sauce. If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Mushrooms: They add depth to the dish. If you don’t like mushrooms, feel free to leave them out or substitute with spinach or broccoli for an extra veggie boost.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken so it’s juicy and flavorful requires a few simple steps. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use a medium-high heat to get a nice sear. This adds flavor!
- Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side. Make sure it’s golden brown before flipping!
- Always let chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing; this keeps the juices locked in.
This technique ensures your chicken remains tender and delicious!
Fettuccine Alfredo With Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
For The Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For The Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for thinning sauce)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and chicken and then another 15-20 minutes preparing the creamy sauce and combining everything. Quick, satisfying, and perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the water and set the pasta aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes until they become soft and browned.
4. Make It Creamy:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If it gets too thick, you can stir in a little chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
5. Combine and Serve:
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. Finally, plate the fettuccine, top it with the sliced chicken, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and more Parmesan cheese if you like.
Enjoy your rich and creamy homemade Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken! It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes! Just ensure that the chicken is completely thawed before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and replace it with your favorite vegetables like broccoli or spinach. You can also add some cooked mushrooms for extra flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes! While fettuccine is traditional, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, rigatoni, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
