Name: Creamy Garlic Fettuccine Alfredo with Sautéed Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; Fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound uncooked fettuccine; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, grated or pressed; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 2 cups half and half; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt; Pinch of ground nutmeg; Pinch of white pepper; 1 cup (1 1/2 ounces) freshly-grated Parmesan cheese; Finely-chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 14 reviews

If you have a craving for something rich, comforting, and downright indulgent, this Creamy Garlic Fettuccine Alfredo with Sautéed Chicken Recipe is going to become your go-to dinner hit. Imagine perfectly cooked al dente fettuccine bathed in a luxurious, garlicky white sauce that’s silky smooth and loaded with Parmesan cheese, paired with juicy, pan-seared chicken that adds the perfect savory touch. It’s a dish that feels fancy but comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is all about creamy indulgence and hearty satisfaction. Get ready to fall in love with every bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two raw pink chicken pieces placed side by side in a white bowl near the center. To the right, there is a white plate holding seven nests of yellow tagliatelle pasta arranged neatly. Above the chicken, there is a small white bowl filled with golden olive oil. To the far left, a white round plate holds three raw garlic cloves, a spoon with black pepper, a spoon with ground seasoning, a spoonful of white flour, and some green parsley stems spread around. Below that plate, a white shallow dish has a square block of pale yellow cheese, while a small white bowl nearby contains small cubes of yellow butter. In the bottom left corner, a small white cream pitcher with milk is positioned. All items are placed on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the short list fool you—each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish unforgettable. From the tender chicken breast adding protein and juiciness to the nutty Parmesan that melts into the sauce, every item plays an essential role in creating the ultimate creamy garlic fettuccine experience.

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts: These add wonderful protein and a savory depth when pan-seared to a golden crust.
Fine sea salt and freshly-ground black pepper: Essential to season the chicken and pasta water to bring out natural flavors.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For a perfect sear on the chicken that locks in juices and adds a subtle richness.
1 pound uncooked fettuccine: The star pasta that holds the creamy sauce beautifully with its wide ribbons.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates the buttery base and richness essential for the sauce’s silky texture.
4 cloves garlic, grated or pressed: Adds a fragrant, mellow punch that elevates the sauce without overpowering.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce for that perfect creamy consistency without being heavy.
2 cups half and half: The secret to a luscious creaminess that’s lighter than heavy cream but still indulgent.
½ teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances the sauce, bringing out subtle nuances alongside the cheese and garlic.
Pinch of ground nutmeg and white pepper: Adds warmth and a mild spice for a well-rounded flavor.
1 cup freshly-grated Parmesan cheese (about 1 ½ ounces): The cheesy heart of the Alfredo, melting into the sauce for that signature savory bite.
Finely-chopped fresh parsley: A vibrant garnish that brings freshness and a pop of color.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Fettuccine Alfredo with Sautéed Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Water

Start by filling a large stockpot with water and seasoning it generously with salt—it should taste as salty as the sea. Bring it to a boil, as this is the foundation of perfectly cooked pasta. Cooking fettuccine in well-salted water is key to infusing it with flavor before it’s ever sauced.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While you wait for your water to boil, season both sides of your chicken breasts with fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the chicken in the pan and let it cook undisturbed for about 4 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer it to a plate and allow it to rest for at least 5–10 minutes before slicing. This rest period keeps the chicken juicy and tender.

Step 3: Cook the Fettuccine

Drop the fettuccine into the boiling water and cook until just al dente according to package instructions. Avoid overcooking since the pasta will continue to cook a little when tossed with the sauce. Drain the pasta but hold onto a cup of pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later—it’s a nifty trick!

Step 4: Sauté the Garlic and Make the Sauce

In the same pan used for chicken (or a clean sauté pan if you prefer), melt unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the grated or pressed garlic and sauté gently for about one minute, stirring often to prevent burning—garlic should be fragrant, not bitter. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute, allowing it to form a golden roux that will thicken the sauce amazingly well.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients for the Sauce

Slowly whisk in the half and half, ensuring the mixture stays smooth. Add sea salt, a pinch of nutmeg, and white pepper to build subtle layers of warm spice. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens and almost reaches a gentle simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until silky and smooth. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed for a perfect balance.

Step 6: Toss Pasta in Sauce and Add Chicken

Return the drained pasta to the pan with the sauce or transfer everything to a large pot. Toss the pasta until each ribbon is luxuriously coated in creamy sauce. Slice the rested chicken and arrange it on top or fold it gently into the pasta for every bite to have that perfect combination of creamy pasta and succulent chicken.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Fettuccine Alfredo with Sautéed Chicken Recipe

In a white pan with a bronze handle, there is one layer of creamy, pale yellow fettuccine pasta covered with a smooth sauce. On top of the pasta, there are several pieces of brown grilled chicken sliced into thick strips, placed slightly spread out. Small bits of green parsley are sprinkled over the dish, and black pepper is lightly dotted across the pasta and chicken. The background has a white marbled texture and a small round white bowl with ground black pepper sits nearby with a mustard-colored cloth next to it photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finish this comforting dish with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley, which adds a splash of vibrant green and a delightful pop of herbal brightness. If you like a little extra indulgence, grate a touch more Parmesan right on top just before serving. A dash of freshly cracked black pepper can also enhance the visual appeal and flavor.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Garlic Fettuccine Alfredo with Sautéed Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh salads like a simple arugula tossed with lemon vinaigrette or classic Caesar salad for a bit of contrast. Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, add nice texture and a touch of freshness to balance the rich sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elevated experience, serve the pasta in warm bowls and lay the sliced chicken fan-style over the top, garnished with parsley and parmesan. Or plate the pasta separately and serve the chicken on the side for a more elegant, restaurant-style presentation. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can also add a charming flourish for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (and believe me, this recipe tends to disappear fast), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken upon standing, so a small splash of milk or half and half when reheating helps bring back that creamy consistency.

Freezing

Due to the creamy nature of the sauce, freezing is not ideal as it can separate when thawed. For best quality, enjoy fresh or refrigerate leftovers rather than freeze.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a tablespoon or two of half and half or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent the sauce from curdling and the chicken from drying out. Slow and steady reheating maintains the luscious texture you love.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is classic for Alfredo dishes, you can use linguine, tagliatelle, or even wide egg noodles. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape.

Is it possible to make this dish without chicken?

Yes! The chicken is optional and you can enjoy the creamy garlic sauce over just pasta, or swap in sautéed shrimp, mushrooms, or other proteins according to your preference.

How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

For a thicker sauce, cook it a little longer to reduce it or add a touch more flour at the beginning. To loosen the sauce, simply whisk in a bit of pasta water or half and half until you reach your desired consistency.

What’s the best way to get freshly grated Parmesan cheese?

Buy a whole block of Parmesan and grate it yourself just before use. Pre-grated parmesan often contains additives that affect melting and flavor, so fresh is always best for that creamy Alfredo sauce.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?

You can cook the chicken up to a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. The sauce and pasta are best made fresh for optimal texture, but leftovers reheat very well with a little added liquid.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like sitting down to a plate of Creamy Garlic Fettuccine Alfredo with Sautéed Chicken Recipe that’s bursting with flavor and comfort. It’s an easy way to make any weeknight feel special or impress guests without stress. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this deliciously creamy experience—you’ll be so glad you did!