Chicken Alfredo with Garlic Bread
Description
Chicken Alfredo is a rich and creamy Italian-American pasta dish made with tender grilled or pan-seared chicken breasts, a velvety Alfredo sauce (butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese), and fettuccine pasta. Served alongside warm, crispy garlic bread, it’s a comfort food favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.l
Ingredients
For Chicken Alfredo:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
12 oz fettuccine pasta
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
For Garlic Breor Italian bread loaf
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions (usually 10–12 minutes).
Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.l
2. Cook the Chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook 6–7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream, stir, and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Slowly whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
Add Italian seasoning if using.
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if sauce is too thick.
4. Prepare Garlic Bread
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix softened butter with garlic, parsley, and salt.
Slice the bread in half lengthwise and spread garlic butter evenly.
Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden and crispy. For extra crisp, broil for the last 1–2 minutes.
5. Serve
Plate the Alfredo pasta and top with sliced chicken.
Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.
Serve with warm garlic bread on the side.
Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – serves 4)
Chicken Alfredo:
Calories: ~680
Protein: 40g
Carbs: 48g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 540mg
Garlic Bread (2 slices):
Calories: ~210
Carbs: 25g
Fat: 12g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 310mg
Total Meal (Chicken Alfredo + Garlic Bread): ~890 calories per serving
Common Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: You can use whole milk with a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce, but it won’t be as rich or creamy.
Q: What pasta can I use instead of fettuccine?
A: Linguine, penne, or spaghetti work well. Fettuccine is traditional because it holds the sauce nicely.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: The sauce is best fresh, but you can prep chicken and pasta in advance. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream.
Q: Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan?
A: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a smoother sauce, but pre-grated can work in a pinch.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and check that your Parmesan and butter are labeled gluten-free. For the garlic bread, use gluten-free bread.