Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe

The Ultimate Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe You’ll Love

Whipping up a creamy chicken alfredo pasta brings pure comfort to your dinner table.

Hungry souls crave something simple yet delicious for their evening meal.

Professional chefs know this classic dish can be prepared quickly with minimal ingredients.

Fresh parmesan and tender chicken create a magical combination that melts in your mouth.

Rich, velvety sauce coats perfectly cooked noodles, promising a satisfying experience.

Anyone can master this recipe with just a few basic cooking skills.

Grab a fork and dive into this irresistible culinary journey that will make you feel like a kitchen superstar.

Chicken Alfredo With Pasta That’s Creamy And Easy

  • Speed Up Dinner: Whip up a delicious, creamy pasta dish in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Combines tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta that appeals to both kids and adults, making it an ideal family meal everyone will love.
  • Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: Uses simple, everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, creating a restaurant-quality meal without complicated techniques or hard-to-find components.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimizes kitchen cleanup by preparing the entire dish in a single skillet, reducing dishes and saving precious time after cooking.

Ingredient Guide For Easy Chicken Alfredo With Pasta

Main Ingredients:
  • Chicken: A protein that provides a hearty and satisfying base for the pasta dish.
  • Pasta: The classic foundation that carries the creamy sauce and absorbs its rich flavors.
  • Parmesan Cheese: A classic Italian cheese that adds a sharp, salty depth to the sauce.
Dairy and Liquid Components:
  • Heavy Cream, Chicken Broth: Create a smooth and luxurious base for the Alfredo sauce.
Seasonings and Aromatics:
  • Garlic, Salt, Pepper, Nutmeg: Enhance the overall flavor profile with their distinctive and complementary tastes.
  • Olive Oil: Provides a medium for cooking the chicken and adds a subtle background flavor.
Garnish:
  • Parsley: Offers a fresh and bright finishing touch to the dish.

Steps For The Best Chicken Alfredo Pasta Night

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Drop pasta into a pot of salted boiling water.

Cook until perfectly tender but still firm.

Drain the water completely and let the pasta rest to the side.

Step 2: Sizzle Chicken

Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium flame.

Toss in diced chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper.

Cook the chicken until it turns golden and reaches a fully cooked white color throughout, which takes around 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Awaken Garlic Flavor

Sprinkle minced garlic into the hot skillet.

Let it dance and release its aromatic essence for about one minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 4: Create Creamy Base

Pour in rich heavy cream and savory chicken broth.

Bring the liquid to a gentle bubbling simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Melt Cheese Goodness

Slowly introduce grated Parmesan cheese into the simmering liquid.

Stir continuously until the cheese dissolves completely and the sauce transforms into a luxuriously smooth consistency.

Step 6: Marry All Ingredients

Dust a pinch of ground nutmeg into the sauce.

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Fold in the cooked pasta and chicken, ensuring every morsel gets beautifully coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Finish And Plate

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve the dish steaming hot directly from the skillet.

Tips For Ultra Creamy Chicken Alfredo At Home

  • Choose high-quality pasta like fettuccine or linguine for authentic Italian texture and better sauce absorption.
  • Pat chicken dry before cooking to ensure golden-brown edges and prevent steaming instead of searing.
  • Grate fresh Parmesan cheese for richer flavor compared to pre-packaged options, which can taste less vibrant.
  • Simmer sauce gently to prevent cream from separating and maintain smooth, silky consistency.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat and depth to elevate the classic Alfredo recipe.

Chicken Alfredo Variations For Weeknight Dinners

  • Veggie Lovers' Alfredo: Replace chicken with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure Parmesan cheese is certified gluten-free for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Lighter Cream Sauce: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt to reduce calories and create a tangier flavor profile.
  • Seafood Switch: Swap chicken for sautéed shrimp or tender salmon pieces for a luxurious seafood Alfredo experience.

How To Serve Chicken Alfredo With Fresh Pasta

  • Comfort Family Dinner: Gather around the table and enjoy this creamy chicken alfredo as a hearty main course with loved ones.
  • Elegant Side Pairings: Serve alongside a crisp green salad with light vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Wine Companion: Complement the rich alfredo with a chilled glass of chardonnay or pinot grigio to enhance the creamy flavors.
  • Fresh Herb Topping: Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan and chopped fresh basil or parsley just before serving to add brightness and visual appeal.

Storing Chicken Alfredo With Pasta For Lunches

  • Transfer leftover chicken Alfredo to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture and odors from affecting the dish.
  • Package the pasta in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months to maintain optimal taste and texture.
  • Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.

FAQs

  • Is this Chicken Alfredo recipe difficult to make?

No, it’s incredibly simple and beginner-friendly. The entire dish takes less than 30 minutes to prepare with basic cooking skills.

  • Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, linguine, or penne work perfectly. Choose a pasta shape that holds sauce well and matches your preference.

  • What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce might be slightly less rich. For a lighter version, use milk and add a little cornstarch to help thicken.

  • How can I make this recipe more protein-rich?

Consider adding extra chicken, including grilled shrimp, or mixing in some cooked bacon bits for additional protein and flavor complexity.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 19 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Comfort meets elegance in this classic chicken alfredo pasta, blending creamy parmesan sauce with tender chicken over perfectly cooked noodles. Delightful flavors and simple ingredients combine to create a restaurant-quality meal you can quickly prepare at home.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) chicken breast, diced
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) chicken broth

Pasta and Seasonings:

  • 2 cups (480 milliliters) cooked pasta (fettuccine or your choice)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce and Garnish:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (100 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Boil pasta in salted water at high heat for 8-10 minutes until perfectly tender, achieving an al dente texture. Carefully drain using a colander and reserve.
  2. Select a large skillet and warm olive oil over medium-high temperature. Introduce diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper, sautéing for 6-7 minutes until completely white throughout and golden-edged.
  3. Reduce heat and introduce minced garlic, stirring quickly to prevent burning. Allow aromatics to release for approximately 45-60 seconds, creating a fragrant base.
  4. Pour heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, creating a smooth liquid foundation. Increase heat to medium and allow mixture to gently simmer, occasionally stirring to prevent scorching.
  5. Gradually sprinkle Parmesan cheese into the simmering liquid, whisking consistently until cheese melts completely and sauce transforms into a luxurious, creamy consistency.
  6. Enhance sauce with ground nutmeg, then taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as required. Fold cooked pasta and sautéed chicken into the creamy sauce, ensuring every ingredient receives thorough coating.
  7. Transfer to serving plates immediately. Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant visual and herbal accent. Serve piping hot for optimal flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Pasta Perfection Choose high-quality pasta like fettuccine or linguine for authentic texture and better sauce absorption.
  • Chicken Tip Slice chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and prevent dry or undercooked sections.
  • Sauce Rescue If sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of pasta water or additional chicken broth for silky consistency.
  • Dietary Swap Use gluten-free pasta and lactose-free cream for celiac or dairy-sensitive diners without compromising flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 548 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 511 mg
  • Fat: 33 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 44 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star