Creamy Chicken Alfredo That’s Rich, Comforting, and Made in One Pan
When it comes to comfort food, few things beat a bowl of creamy, cheesy chicken alfredo. Tender pasta coated in a rich garlic parmesan sauce, with juicy seared chicken on top—it’s the kind of dinner that feels indulgent but comes together with simple ingredients and just one pan.
Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or you’re cooking to impress someone special, this dish is creamy, dreamy, and absolutely foolproof.
Why This Recipe Works
Classic alfredo sauce is made from butter, garlic, cream, and parmesan—but when paired with seasoned chicken and fettuccine, it becomes a full meal that’s both hearty and elegant. The sauce is made from scratch (no jar needed!), and everything cooks up quickly while staying big on flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan and let rest, then slice into strips.
2. Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted water, cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in parmesan cheese and pepper. Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
4. Combine and Serve
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until coated. Top with sliced chicken and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Creamy Success
- Don’t let the sauce boil—keep it at a gentle simmer for a smooth texture.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
- Add a splash of reserved pasta water if your sauce gets too thick.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread or a side salad
- Add broccoli or spinach for a veggie boost
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days (reheat gently with a splash of milk)
Final Thoughts
Chicken alfredo is one of those dishes that feels fancy without the fuss. Creamy, rich, and packed with flavor—it’s the kind of meal you’ll want to come back to again and again.
Stick around—every visit tastes better than the last at The Buttered Bliss.
