Creamy Garlic Alfredo Chicken Pasta Recipe You’ll Love

Introduction

Picture this: the irresistible aroma of garlic simmering in butter, the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce coating every strand of fettuccine, and tender, juicy slices of perfectly seared chicken. That’s the magic of Creamy Garlic Alfredo Chicken Pasta—a dish that promises indulgence with every bite. I still remember the first time I made this recipe; it was one of those nights where I needed something comforting but also a little special. As soon as that creamy sauce hit the pan, I knew I had struck gold.

This recipe isn’t just about food—it’s about creating a moment. It’s the kind of meal that makes you pause, smile, and savor each forkful. My family couldn’t get enough of it the first time I served it, and it became a regular request for cozy dinners and gatherings. Honestly, it’s dangerously easy to whip up, and yet it feels just as fancy as a restaurant dish. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a little indulgence after a long day.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just someone who loves good food, this Creamy Garlic Alfredo Chicken Pasta recipe will earn a spot in your household rotation. Trust me, it’s one of those dishes you’ll want to bookmark and make over and over again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner idea.
• Simple Ingredients: No need for fancy grocery runs—most of the ingredients are probably already in your pantry or fridge.
• Restaurant-Quality: This pasta tastes like something you’d order at your favorite Italian restaurant but made right at home.
• A Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good creamy pasta, and this dish always gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Whether you like extra garlic or prefer a lighter sauce, this recipe is easy to adapt to your taste.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors—the rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken and tender pasta. The secret lies in using simple techniques, like searing the chicken to golden perfection and blending the sauce until it’s silky smooth. It’s comfort food with a touch of elegance, making it ideal for everything from weeknight dinners to special occasions.

Honestly, it’s the kind of recipe that makes you close your eyes and sigh after the first bite. It’s that good. So, let’s get started and turn your kitchen into a cozy trattoria!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the chicken:
• 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets
• 1 tsp garlic powder (for seasoning the chicken)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing the chicken)
• For the pasta:
• 12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
• 4 cups water (for boiling the pasta)
• 1 tsp salt
• For the Alfredo sauce:
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional, adds depth)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings:
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Feel free to adapt! If you prefer a lighter sauce, swap heavy cream for half-and-half. For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan (for cooking the chicken and sauce)
• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Wooden spoon (for stirring the sauce)
• Tongs (for flipping the chicken)
• Sharp knife and cutting board (for prepping chicken and garlic)
• Fine grater or microplane (for grating Parmesan cheese)

If you don’t have a skillet, a heavy-bottomed pan works just as well. A garlic press can save you time when mincing garlic, but a knife works perfectly too!

Preparation Method

1. Cook the pasta: Bring 4 cups of salted water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
2. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken cutlets with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the garlic Alfredo sauce: Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce thicken for about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, a little at a time, until fully melted and the sauce is silky smooth. Season with nutmeg (optional), salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
6. Slice the chicken: Slice the seared chicken into thin strips and arrange them on top of the pasta.
7. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t rush the sauce: Let the Alfredo sauce simmer gently to achieve its creamy texture. High heat can cause it to separate.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s texture. Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully.
• Season the chicken well: Generous seasoning is key to infusing flavor into the chicken and the dish overall.
• Reserve pasta water: The starchy water helps emulsify the sauce and make it cling to the pasta better.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When searing the chicken, work in batches if necessary to ensure a nice golden crust.

With these tips, you’ll be serving up pasta perfection every single time!

Variations & Adaptations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables for a meat-free meal.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the fettuccine with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter dish.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a subtle kick.

You can also experiment with adding grilled shrimp or swapping the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. One time, I added sun-dried tomatoes, and it was a game-changer!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Creamy Garlic Alfredo Chicken Pasta is best served hot and fresh. Plate it with a sprinkling of parsley and extra Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy presentation. Pair it with garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad for a complete meal.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

If you plan to freeze the dish, store the sauce and pasta separately for best results. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

While indulgent, this recipe offers some nutritional perks:

• Protein: The chicken provides a good dose of lean protein.
• Calcium: Parmesan cheese and cream are rich in calcium, which supports bone health.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to fit dietary needs like gluten-free or low-carb options.

Keep in mind, this dish contains dairy and gluten, so consider substitutions if you have allergies or sensitivities.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish, this Creamy Garlic Alfredo Chicken Pasta recipe is a must-try. It’s a personal favorite for its rich flavors, creamy texture, and versatility. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress.

Creamy Garlic Alfredo Chicken Pasta

Print Recipe

A rich and creamy Alfredo pasta dish with tender seared chicken, perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions.

• Author: Amanda
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
• 4 cups water
• 1 tsp salt
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring 4 cups of salted water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
2. Season the chicken cutlets with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce thicken for about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, a little at a time, until fully melted and the sauce is silky smooth. Season with nutmeg (optional), salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
6. Slice the seared chicken into thin strips and arrange them on top of the pasta.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

[‘Let the Alfredo sauce simmer gently to achieve its creamy texture.’, ‘Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and texture.’, ‘Reserve pasta water to help emulsify the sauce.’, ‘Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken.’]

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 2
• Sodium: 800
• Fat: 35
• Saturated Fat: 20
• Carbohydrates: 50
• Fiber: 2
• Protein: 35

Keywords: Creamy Garlic Alfredo Chicken Pasta, Alfredo recipe, chicken pasta, Italian pasta, easy dinner recipe