Print

Chicken Alfredo for Two

Creamy chicken alfredo pasta for two on a clean white plate.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A perfectly portioned, one-pan pasta dish that turns simple ingredients into a luxurious and cozy dinner. The key is a silky, non-separating Alfredo sauce made by gently heating cream and slowly melting Parmesan off the heat. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s faster than takeout and infinitely more rewarding.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 4 ounces fettuccine pasta
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
  • Salt and white pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water.
  2. Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal). Transfer to a plate, tent with foil, and let rest.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in heavy cream. Warm gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Remove skillet from heat. Gradually sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth.
  7. Stir in nutmeg (if using), and season sauce with salt and white pepper.
  8. Slice the rested chicken. Add drained pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a smooth sauce, always grate your own Parmesan cheese and add it off the heat. Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. The reserved starchy pasta water is key for adjusting the sauce consistency at the end.

Nutrition