Chicken Alfredo pairs pan-seared chicken breast with fettuccine in a garlic-cream sauce loaded with parmesan. The sauce comes together quickly in the same skillet used for the chicken, making this a satisfying weeknight pasta dinner that's on the table in 30 minutes.
2tablespoonsolive oilextra virgin preferred for better flavor
2piecesboneless, skinless chicken breaststhinly sliced horizontally for quicker cooking
1teaspoonkosher saltdivided, for seasoning chicken and sauce
½teaspoonblack pepperfreshly ground preferred
3clovesgarlicfinely minced
1cupheavy creamroom temperature
1cupwhole milk
1 ½cupsParmesan cheesefreshly grated for best melting
12ouncesfettuccine pastadried or fresh, cooked according to package instructions
2tablespoonsunsalted butter
¼cupfresh parsleychopped, for garnish
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Instructions
Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook until al dente according to package instructions (approx. 8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts on both sides with 1/2 tsp salt and black pepper.
Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken and let rest. Slice into strips.
In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant—do not brown.
Add heavy cream and milk to the skillet. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, whisking gently.
Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until fully melted and the sauce is velvety. Season with remaining 1/2 tsp salt if desired.
Add sliced chicken and cooked fettuccine to the sauce. Toss gently to coat evenly and let it warm for 2 more minutes.
Plate immediately. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
For added depth, deglaze the skillet with a splash of dry white wine before adding the cream.
Substitute half-and-half for the cream if desired—but note the sauce will be slightly lighter.
Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken in a pinch to save time—just slice and warm in the sauce.