Is there anything more comforting than a big bowl of creamy chicken alfredo? I think not! This chicken alfredo recipe is my go-to for busy weeknights or when I need to whip up somethin’ special. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, ready for a taste of pure comfort. My version has a touch of Texas flair (because, well, gotta represent!), but you can definitely make it your own. Let’s get cookin’!
Top Reasons To Make It
This creamy chicken alfredo pasta comes together surprisingly quickly, making it a lifesaver on busy evenings. Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. Kids and adults alike gobble this up! The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta. So good. It’s also super versatile. Add your favorite veggies, swap out the protein – the possibilities are endless.
Ingredients
- Fettuccine pasta: This long, flat pasta is perfect for capturing that luscious sauce.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: We’ll cut these into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Creates a smooth, velvety base for the sauce.
- Heavy cream: Makes our Alfredo oh-so dreamy.
- Smoked turkey: For extra flavor and smokiness
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture to the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best! And lots of it.
- Garlic: For a little zing.
- Salt: To enhance all those flavors.
- Black pepper: A must for that classic alfredo taste.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a tiny touch of heat – honestly, if you hate heat skip this!
- Fresh parsley (optional): For garnish.
See the recipe card below for exact measurements.
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Make the sauce: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the smoked turkey and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if using).
- Combine and serve: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Garnish with fresh parsley, if you like it.
Variations & Substitutions
Making this creamy chicken alfredo recipe your own is easy! Try swapping the chicken for shrimp or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth doesn’t contain gluten. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or try cauliflower alfredo sauce. And for extra flavor, add some roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
This Creamy Chicken Alfredo is great on its own but it also pairs perfectly with a simple side salad and some garlic bread. A crisp white wine, like a Pinot Grigio, is a great companion if you’re feelin’ fancy. But sometimes a nice iced tea hits the spot just right!
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Tips
- Don’t overcook the pasta – aim for al dente, or légèrement under cooked so that they finish cooking in the sauce. It will make your Chicken With Alfredo Sauce Recipes infinitely better.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese! I know the pre-grated stuff is tempting, but fresh creates a much smoother, so, so tender sauce.
- Don’t be afraid to add a little extra broth or cream if the sauce is too thick.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings! Everyone’s tastebuds are different, so add more salt, pepper, or cayenne as needed.
- For a fun presentation, add a sprinkle of paprika on top – just enough to make the color pop!
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Freezing cooked Alfredo isn’t recommended, as the creamy texture can change after thawing. Be sure to follow food safety recommendations when reheating leftovers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different kind of pasta for this Chicken For Alfredo Pasta?
A: Absolutely! Fettuccine is traditional, but linguine, penne, farfalle, or even rotini would work in a pinch. Any Chicken And Pasta Dishes For Dinner can be adjusted in this way.
Q: Is this The Best Chicken Alfredo recipe?
A: I might be a little biased, but yes, darlin’! I’ve tweaked and tested this creamy chicken alfredo recipe for years using my Texas favorites. It checks all the boxes for me: creamy, flavorful, and satisfying, plus simple enough for any night of the week. Making a homemade Chicken Alfredo Recipe has never been easier.
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Creamy Chicken Alfredo Recipe: A Texas Twist
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This easy Chicken Alfredo recipe is creamy, comforting, and loaded with tender chicken, smoked turkey, and Parmesan cheese. The luscious homemade Alfredo sauce comes together in one pan and coats every bite of pasta. A cozy, satisfying dinner you’ll want to make on repeat!
Ingredients
▢ 12 oz fettuccine pasta
▢ 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
▢ 2 tablespoons butter
▢ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
▢ 1 ½ cups heavy cream
▢ ½ cup chicken broth
▢ ½ cup smoked turkey, diced
▢ ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
▢ 3 cloves garlic, minced
▢ ¾ teaspoon salt
▢ ½ teaspoon black pepper
▢ ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
▢ Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
3. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sauté until fully cooked, 5–7 minutes.
4. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth.
7. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the smoked turkey and Parmesan cheese.
8. Season with additional salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir until sauce is smooth.
9. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
10. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture and flavor.
• Want to lighten it up? Swap half the cream for milk.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: chicken alfredo, creamy pasta recipe, alfredo sauce from scratch, fettuccine alfredo, smoked turkey pasta