Grilled Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Grilled Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic, creamy, and flavorful pasta dish that pairs tender grilled chicken with a rich Parmesan Alfredo sauce. This easy homemade recipe is perfect for a comforting family dinner or a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality Flavor at Home – This homemade chicken Alfredo recipe delivers a creamy and indulgent dish without the need for takeout.
• Simple and Quick – With minimal ingredients and a straightforward method, this is a perfect fettuccine Alfredo recipe with chicken for busy nights.
• Customizable – Use grilled, baked, or pan-seared chicken, and adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can even make Alfredo with chicken broth for a lighter version.

Ingredients

For the Pasta & Alfredo Sauce:

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

2. Grill the Chicken

• Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
• Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
• Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Remove from the heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce

• In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
• Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir continuously until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Add the cooked fettuccine to the pan and toss to coat in the Alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

4. Assemble & Serve

• Plate the Alfredo pasta and top with sliced grilled chicken.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
• Serve immediately and enjoy this easy homemade chicken Alfredo dish!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Alfredo Pasta with Jar Sauce – If you’re short on time, use a store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making your own.
• Alfredo with Chicken Broth – Substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth for a lighter version.
• Baked Chicken Alfredo – Mix the pasta and sauce, top with extra Parmesan, and bake for 10 minutes at 375°F.
• Spicy Chicken Alfredo – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
• Vegetable Additions – Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted broccoli for extra texture and nutrients.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftover pasta and chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Warm the pasta gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. The chicken can be reheated in a skillet or microwave.
• Freezing – The Alfredo sauce does not freeze well due to the dairy content, but the grilled chicken can be frozen separately for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives the sauce a smooth texture, but pre-grated can be used in a pinch.

What’s the best way to grill chicken for Alfredo?

Grill over medium-high heat and let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes, penne, linguine, or spaghetti work well as substitutes for fettuccine.

How do I make Alfredo sauce without heavy cream?

You can use a mixture of milk and butter or a combination of milk and chicken broth for a lighter sauce.

What side dishes go well with chicken Alfredo?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables are excellent side options.

How do I prevent my Alfredo sauce from becoming too thick?

Add a little reserved pasta water or an extra splash of cream while tossing the pasta in the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, for a chicken Alfredo pasta with jar sauce, simply warm the jarred sauce and toss it with the pasta and grilled chicken.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, add red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne pepper for heat.

Is homemade Alfredo sauce better than store-bought?

Yes, homemade Alfredo sauce has a fresher taste, richer texture, and no preservatives.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer a homemade chicken Alfredo sauce or a quick chicken Alfredo pasta with jar sauce, this recipe is versatile and delicious. Try it for your next favorite dinner recipe, and enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home!