Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe Easy

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta

A comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a dinner classic that combines the richness of cream, the savoriness of grilled chicken, and the satisfying chew of al dente pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a special family meal, this recipe is indulgent yet simple enough to prepare in under 30 minutes. With its velvety sauce and tender chicken, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.

Ingredients For Simple chicken Alfredo recipe

For the Pasta:

• 250g (8 oz) fettuccine pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Chicken:

• 2 medium chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan for sprinkling

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt and olive oil, then cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Parmesan cheese and nutmeg, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
2. Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the pasta and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

Cooking Note

• Choose Your Pasta: While fettuccine is traditional, you can substitute it with spaghetti, penne, or linguine based on availability.
• Grill Alternatives: If you don’t have a grill, use a stovetop skillet or oven to cook the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

1. Pair this pasta with a side of garlic bread or a light green salad for a complete meal.
2. Serve with a glass of sparkling water infused with lemon for a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce.

Tips for Perfect Alfredo Pasta

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
• Adjust the Thickness: If the sauce thickens too much, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
• Add Veggies: For a healthier twist, toss in steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Fat: 30g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can cook the pasta and chicken in advance and store them separately. Prepare the sauce just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
   Use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese for a lighter alternative.

3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
   Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works well in this recipe.

4. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your Parmesan cheese and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Summary For Easy creamy chicken alfredo pasta

This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a rich and indulgent meal that’s surprisingly simple to make. The combination of tender chicken, velvety sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a guaranteed hit at any dinner table. Customize it with your favorite add-ins, and you’ll have a dish that feels like restaurant-quality comfort food in the comfort of your home.