Ingredients (Makes about 4 servings)

For the Chicken:

• 1 tbsp (14g) olive oil
• 1 pound (450g) chicken breasts, skinless, boneless
• Garlic powder (to taste)
• Salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tbsp (30g) butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 cup (240g) cooking cream (heavy cream)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 cup (50g) Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Sprinkling on Top:

• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Olive oil (for drizzling)
• Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling)

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories per serving: Approximately 600-650 kcal

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken Breasts:
   • Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Garlic powder adds a wonderful flavor without overpowering the dish. The seasonings create a savory base that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
2. Pan-Sear the Chicken:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts.
   • Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is golden brown. You want the chicken to develop a crispy exterior while staying juicy and tender on the inside.
   • Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a cutting board to rest for a few minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
3. Slice the Chicken:
   • After the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. This will make it easy to incorporate into the pasta later.

Step 2: Cooking the Fettuccine Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually for about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking together.
2. Drain the Pasta:
   • Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water (this helps adjust the sauce later if needed). Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Making the Alfredo Sauce

1. Melt the Butter:
   • In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add 2 tablespoons of butter and melt it over medium heat. The leftover chicken flavors in the skillet will add extra depth to the sauce.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
   • Add 1 minced garlic clove to the butter and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • Pour in 1 cup of cooking cream (heavy cream) and stir to combine with the butter and garlic. The cream is the base of your Alfredo sauce, and it will provide that rich, velvety texture.
   • Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of dried basil for an aromatic herb flavor. Stir the sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Add Parmesan Cheese:
   • Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and allow it to melt into the sauce. This will make the sauce thick, creamy, and packed with flavor. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.

Step 4: Bringing It All Together

1. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the Alfredo sauce and toss it gently to coat the noodles with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
   • Stir in the sliced chicken breasts and mix until evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
2. Serve the Dish:
   • Divide the creamy chicken fettuccine Alfredo among serving plates. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to add richness and extra flavor.
3. Garnish:
   • Finish the dish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese on top for a touch of color and added flavor.

Why This Recipe Is Timeless

Chicken fettuccine Alfredo is a beloved classic for a reason. The combination of tender fettuccine pasta, a creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly seasoned chicken creates a dish that’s not only rich and satisfying but also incredibly comforting. It’s a meal that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a dinner party, cooking for your family, or enjoying a romantic meal for two.

This dish has stood the test of time because it brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s both indulgent and balanced. The richness of the cream and cheese is cut by the slight acidity of the freshly ground pepper, while the herbs add a depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. It’s easy to make, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum flavor. Moreover, it’s incredibly versatile—you can swap out chicken for shrimp, add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or even add a touch of spice with red pepper flakes.

Fettuccine Alfredo is also one of those dishes that brings people together. It’s perfect for a family meal, a cozy dinner date, or a holiday feast. Its comforting nature, paired with its simple ingredients, makes it a dish that transcends trends, keeping it relevant in kitchens around the world for decades.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 600-650 kcal
• Fat: 30-35g
• Carbohydrates: 50-55g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 700-800mg

FAQ

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Simply reheat the sauce on low heat and add a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen it before combining with the pasta and chicken.

Can I substitute the heavy cream for something lighter? You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and a little flour to make a lighter sauce, but the richness of the cream is what makes this recipe so decadent.

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, while fettuccine is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you like—penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti would all work well in this dish.

How can I make the sauce spicier? If you prefer a little heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick. You can also sprinkle some chili powder or paprika for added flavor.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

• Cook the chicken in the same pan you used to make the sauce to infuse the sauce with the savory flavors left in the pan.
• Don’t overcook the pasta. Fettuccine should be al dente, meaning it still has a slight bite to it.
• Grate your Parmesan fresh for the best flavor. Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Alfredo pasta can be frozen, but keep in mind that the sauce may separate slightly upon reheating. Store the pasta and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Conclusion

This creamy chicken fettuccine Alfredo is a dish that never goes out of style. Its rich and comforting flavors are a staple in many kitchens for a reason—it’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and satisfying every time you take a bite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, it’s sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy this timeless classic that will become a family favorite.