Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo is a rich, indulgent, and comforting dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a velvety garlic butter Alfredo sauce. This recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Alfredo, taking the already creamy sauce to the next level with the addition of garlic and butter. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress your guests with a luxurious, flavorful meal.

This dish is made with simple ingredients, but the combination of creamy Parmesan, garlic, butter, and tender chicken makes every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Paired with a classic pasta like fettuccine or penne, the creamy sauce envelops the pasta, creating a satisfying and heartwarming meal. The added bonus of chicken brings a protein boost, making it a one-pot meal that checks all the boxes.

Whether you’re an Alfredo fan or looking for a new pasta dish to try, this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy Sauce

The garlic butter Alfredo sauce is decadently creamy, with rich flavors from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.

2. Juicy Chicken

The chicken is perfectly seared to golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside, making every bite delicious.

3. Quick and Easy

This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special weekend dinners.

4. Comforting and Filling

The combination of creamy sauce and hearty pasta with tender chicken makes this dish both comforting and satisfying.

5. Customizable

You can adjust the flavor by adding extra garlic, spices, or vegetables, and the recipe works well with different pasta types or even gluten-free pasta.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

For the Chicken Alfredo:

• Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• Fettuccine pasta (or pasta of your choice)
• Butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Italian seasoning (optional)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• Butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Chicken broth or white wine (optional, for extra flavor)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Variations

• Different Protein Options: You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even grilled vegetables for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
• Spicy Twist: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half or a combination of milk and light cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the sauce.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the butter and heavy cream with plant-based butter and coconut milk or almond milk, and use dairy-free Parmesan.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set it aside, reserving a little pasta water to add to the sauce if needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, add the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. If you want a more flavorful sauce, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or white wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 4: Add the Cream

Pour in the heavy cream, and stir to combine with the garlic and butter. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Add the Parmesan Cheese

Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy garlic butter sauce. Allow the mixture to cook together for another 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Serve the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo in individual bowls or plates. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Cook the Chicken Evenly: Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let it rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the best flavor and texture, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated cheese.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
• Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Garlic burns easily, so make sure to sauté it just until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Overcooking can result in a bitter taste.
• Make It Creamier: If you want an even richer sauce, you can add a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese for extra creaminess.

How to Serve

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it alongside a light green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for an extra touch. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with this rich and savory dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to return it to a creamy consistency.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the Alfredo with chicken and pasta for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding extra cream or milk to help the sauce return to its creamy consistency.

Reheating

To reheat the leftovers, warm the dish over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently, and add a little extra heavy cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave the dish in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti.

2. Can I make this recipe without chicken?

Yes, you can leave out the chicken and make a vegetarian version, or substitute with shrimp or tofu for a different protein.

3. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of pasta water, milk, or cream to reach your desired consistency.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter, coconut milk, or almond milk as a substitute for the heavy cream, and a dairy-free Parmesan for the cheese.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.

6. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quicker version of this dish.

7. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.

8. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the chicken, pasta, and sauce separately in advance. Assemble and heat everything together when ready to serve.

9. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half as a lighter alternative to heavy cream, but the sauce will be a bit less rich.

10. How do I keep the garlic from burning?

Sauté the garlic over medium heat and watch it closely. Remove it from the heat as soon as it becomes fragrant to avoid burning.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. The combination of juicy chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic butter sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a go-to favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for anyone who loves a creamy, indulgent pasta dish. Enjoy!

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