This creamy chicken fettuccine is a cozy dish that combines tender chicken and delicious pasta in a rich, smooth sauce. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner at home!
You won’t believe how quickly this comes together. I love to pair it with a side salad because, let’s face it, pasta needs a buddy! Bring on the cheesy goodness! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: Fettuccine is a classic choice, but you can swap it for other pasta like pappardelle, linguine, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time based on the shape you choose!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook, but thighs work well for more flavor. Alternatively, you can use rotisserie chicken; it’s a great shortcut if you’re short on time!
Heavy Cream: This gives a rich texture, but you can replace it with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter version. If you want to reduce calories, consider using Greek yogurt mixed with some milk, but add it off the heat to avoid curdling.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano makes a tasty substitute. Nutritional yeast can work for a dairy-free option!
How Do I Get a Smooth and Creamy Sauce?
To achieve that velvety sauce, pay attention to a few key steps:
- After cooking the garlic, add the chicken broth and cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer; this allows it to thicken just right.
- Keep stirring when you add the Parmesan cheese. It helps the cheese melt evenly, creating a smooth texture without clumps.
- If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of pasta cooking water can help loosen it up while adding some flavor.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Fettuccine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Chicken:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Sauce Components:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken fettuccine dish takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick, delicious meal that feels like a treat but doesn’t take hours in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Fettuccine:
Begin by cooking the fettuccine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still a bit firm). Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a little pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will give your chicken plenty of flavors. Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook it for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest. Once it’s cool enough to handle, slice it into strips.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but be careful not to let it burn. Then, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens. This is where the magic starts to happen!
4. Add the Cheese:
Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and, if you’re using it, the Italian seasoning. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste it and season with more salt and pepper if necessary.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked fettuccine and sliced chicken back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are fully coated in that delicious creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Final Touch & Serve:
Once everything is well mixed, remove it from the heat. Plate it up and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your creamy chicken fettuccine right away while it’s warm!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Fettuccine
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. To do this safely, leave it in the fridge overnight or thaw it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also use plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. For the sauce, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and ensure your Parmesan cheese is vegetarian or switch to a dairy-free cheese alternative.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or chicken broth to the pan to help restore the creaminess and prevent the pasta from drying out.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time! Simply prepare it as directed, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove and toss in freshly cooked pasta and chicken for the best results.
