Chicken Alfredo is a rich, comforting pasta dish that has become a staple of American home cooking and restaurant menus. Known for its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish delivers indulgent flavour with surprisingly simple ingredients.
While Alfredo sauce has roots in Italy, the version most people recognise today is distinctly American. Traditional Italian “al burro” relied on butter and cheese, but in the United States, cream was added to create the luxurious sauce that defines modern Chicken Alfredo. Over time, it became a beloved comfort food, especially popular in Italian-American households and casual dining restaurants.
This Chicken Alfredo recipe stays true to the classic American style: creamy, savoury, and deeply satisfying. It is approachable for beginners yet impressive enough for entertaining, making it a reliable favourite for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 50 g unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 250 ml double cream (heavy cream)
- 120 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta
- 400 g fettuccine or linguine
- Water, for boiling
- Salt, for pasta water
To Finish
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly golden.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter.
- Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook gently for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the cream and stir well, allowing it to simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
- Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss gently until fully combined.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow flavours to meld.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Tips & Variations
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce; pre-grated cheese may cause graininess.
- Keep the heat low once the cream is added to prevent splitting.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small splash of pasta water to loosen it.
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream with whole milk.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for extra texture and nutrition.
- Shrimp can be used instead of chicken for a seafood variation.
What to Serve With Chicken Alfredo
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Roasted vegetables such as courgettes or asparagus
Storage & Reheating
Chicken Alfredo is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency. Avoid high heat or microwaving for long periods, as the sauce may separate.
Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which can lose its texture when thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, spaghetti, or tagliatelle work well if fettuccine is unavailable.
Is Chicken Alfredo originally Italian?
The creamy version is American. Traditional Italian Alfredo uses butter and cheese without cream.
Can I make Chicken Alfredo ahead of time?
It can be prepared a few hours in advance, but it is best reheated gently and served fresh.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Alfredo is a timeless American comfort dish that combines simplicity with indulgence. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, it remains a favourite for good reason. This recipe offers a reliable, beginner-friendly approach while delivering rich, restaurant-quality results every time.
