Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mom’s Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich, creamy, and comforting pasta dish that combines tender slices of chicken with silky fettuccine noodles in a velvety Alfredo sauce. It’s a beloved family favorite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its simple ingredients and hearty flavor, this dish brings a taste of home to your table every time.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fettuccine pastaolive oilboneless skinless chicken breastssaltblack peppergarlic clovesheavy creambutterParmesan cheesemilk (optional, for thinning)sprinkling of parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and slice.

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth. Add a splash of milk if needed to adjust consistency.

Add sliced chicken and cooked fettuccine to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the sauce.

Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra veggies.

Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.

Try fettuccine made with spinach or whole wheat for added variety.

Include a pinch of nutmeg in the sauce for depth of flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens.To freeze, place in freezer-safe containers and consume within 1 month. Thaw and reheat as above.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, leftover or rotisserie chicken works great—just slice and heat through in the sauce.

Is heavy cream necessary?

For the richest texture, yes, but you can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version.

What type of Parmesan works best?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts best and gives the best flavor—avoid pre-shredded if possible.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, but the sauce may thicken. Reheat with a bit of cream or milk to restore the consistency.

What if I don’t have fettuccine?

Linguine or tagliatelle make good substitutes. Even penne or rotini will work in a pinch.

Can I add mushrooms?

Absolutely. Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic before adding cream.

Why is my sauce lumpy?

Be sure the cream is warm and stir in the cheese gradually to avoid clumping.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and check that your Parmesan is gluten-free.

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Avoid overheating and stir continuously while adding the cheese.

What can I serve with it?

A simple green salad and garlic bread make perfect accompaniments.

Conclusion

Mom’s Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is the ultimate cozy pasta dish that’s both indulgent and easy to make. Whether you’re recreating a childhood favorite or introducing it to a new generation, this creamy classic is sure to become a cherished part of your dinner rotation.