Oh my goodness, are you ready to indulge in pure creamy pasta bliss? I absolutely love whipping up a bowl of my Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo with Parmesan Cheese! It’s the perfect dish for those nights when I want something comforting yet classy. The rich, buttery Alfredo sauce enveloping tender fettuccine is like a warm hug in a bowl, don’t you think?
I can still recall the first time I made this for my family. Everyone gathered around the dinner table, and as soon as the aroma hit our noses, you could see the anticipation building. That first creamy bite? Absolute magic! This is a recipe that brings smiles and full bellies—definitely a keeper for special occasions or just a cozy night in. Let me take you through the ingredients and how to make it!
What’s in Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo?
Fettuccine Pasta: The star of the dish! I love using 8 oz of fresh fettuccine because it has that perfect width to hold the sauce well.
Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy, these chicken breasts serve as a protein-packed addition that makes the dish hearty.
Olive Oil: This is the secret to perfectly cooked chicken. I opt for extra virgin olive oil for its flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning, but oh-so-important for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
Heavy Cream: The key to that velvety sauce! You can’t skimp on this; it makes all the difference.
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: Nothing beats the taste of freshly grated cheese melting into your sauce. Trust me, it elevates this dish to a whole new level.
Garlic: A couple of cloves for that aromatic punch that complements the creamy sauce effortlessly.
Butter: Because butter makes everything better! It adds richness to the sauce.
Fresh Parsley: I love using it for a pop of color and freshness on top before serving.
Extra Grated Parmesan Cheese: It’s always a good idea to have a little extra for those cheese lovers in the crowd!
Is Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Good for You?
Now, we all know that creamy pasta dishes aren’t necessarily the healthiest, but a little indulgence once in a while is totally worth it!
Heavy Cream: While it adds that lusciousness to the sauce, take note it’s higher in calories and fat. If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, you could use half-and-half instead.
Chicken Breasts: They’re a lean protein source, and combining them with the pasta makes this dish quite filling, which can help curb overeating.
So there you have it! Enjoy this dish in moderation, and maybe pair it with a green salad for a little freshness on the side.
Ingredients
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Extra grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
**Serves 4.**
How to Make Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo?
1. **Cook the fettuccine:** In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of that pasta water for later!
2. **Prepare the chicken:** Season those chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, checking that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. **Make the Alfredo sauce:** In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant—oh, that smell! Then, pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and becomes smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, just add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency.
4. **Combine pasta and sauce:** Toss that cooked fettuccine right into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, making sure every strand is coated in that creamy goodness.
5. **Serve:** Ladle up the creamy fettuccine Alfredo onto plates and top with the sliced chicken breasts. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Pasta Perfecting Tips!
For an even richer taste, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce—trust me; it makes all the difference! This dish pairs beautifully with a side of crispy garlic bread and a fresh green salad to balance the creaminess. You can even toss in some steamed broccoli or mushrooms into the pasta for a veggie boost!
I can’t wait for you to try this creamy chicken fettuccine Alfredo! Dive in, enjoy every cheesy bite, and let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking!
