Speedy Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Name: Speedy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Meal Recipes

I love whipping up this Speedy Chicken Alfredo Pasta whenever I'm in need of a quick and satisfying meal. Within just 20 minutes, I can transform simple ingredients into a creamy and delicious dish that feels indulgent yet is so easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, fettuccine, and a rich Alfredo sauce is truly comforting. With just a few tweaks, I've managed to get this recipe down to a science, ensuring it's a hit every time I make it.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T17:22:27.509Z

When I first tried making Chicken Alfredo from scratch, I was blown away by how simple it actually is! I quickly learned that using fresh, high-quality ingredients made a significant difference in taste and texture. I often toss in some sautéed garlic for an extra kick, which elevates the dish without adding much prep time.

After several attempts, I found that timing the chicken and pasta perfectly is key. Cooking the chicken in the same pot as the pasta helps infuse flavor while keeping cleanup minimal. It's become my go-to recipe for weeknight dinners!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare in just 20 minutes
Creamy Alfredo sauce that perfectly coats the pasta
Savory chicken adds protein and heartiness to the dish

Perfecting Your Chicken Alfredo

To achieve that delightful creamy texture in your Alfredo sauce, make sure to use heavy cream—this ingredient is crucial as it provides richness and helps create that glossy finish. When adding the Parmesan cheese, ensure it’s freshly grated; pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce's smoothness. Stir the cheese gently until it’s fully melted, creating a perfectly luxurious sauce that clings to the fettuccine.

Another key tip involves the cooking of the chicken. Dice the chicken into uniform pieces, about 1 inch in size, to ensure even cooking. I recommend using a large skillet for this step, which allows for better heat distribution. Cook the chicken until it's golden brown and no longer pink in the center. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes over medium heat. If the chicken releases too much liquid, increase the heat slightly to evaporate it quickly, enhancing the flavor.

Customizing Your Dish

While this recipe calls for fettuccine, feel free to experiment with other pasta types such as penne or rigatoni; just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can also be used for those with dietary preferences. Just ensure you follow the package instructions closely to achieve the desired al dente texture, which is key for holding onto the sauce effectively.

For flavor variations, consider adding vegetables like steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to incorporate some nutrition and color. Other great additions could be sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms, which can add a rich, earthy flavor. Adjust the garlic and Parmesan quantities to complement these additional ingredients without overpowering the creamy base.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking!

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine
1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have every ingredient on hand for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious pasta!

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Cook the Chicken

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce

Add minced garlic to the pot with the chicken, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, then bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve

Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy your meal!

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Alfredo Pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce or incorporating vegetables like spinach or broccoli.

Serving and Storing Tips

To serve this Speedy Chicken Alfredo Pasta, plate it immediately after tossing with the sauce to ensure it remains warm and creamy. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can enhance the flavor profile, and a bit of extra grated Parmesan on top adds a gourmet touch. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to rehydrate the sauce. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the pasta rubbery and cause the sauce to separate.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for both solo dinners and larger gatherings. If you're serving a crowd, simply double or triple the ingredients. Keep in mind that you may need to cook the chicken and pasta in batches to maintain even cooking and prevent overcrowding in the pot, which can lower the temperature and lead to uneven results.

For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. The sauce will be slightly thinner, but still delicious. You can also substitute grilled shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for the chicken to create a new twist, providing a quick transformation to suit different taste preferences or dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional, penne or spaghetti work well too.

→ How can I make this recipe lighter?

Substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or using less cheese can reduce the calorie count.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.