Ultimate Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe: Creamy, Healthy & Irresistible!
Discover the Best Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe for Every Kitchen
Whether you’re craving a classic Italian-American comfort dish or a lighter twist on a favorite, this chicken alfredo pasta recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 40 minutes. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, we’ve crafted a versatile guide with 10+ variations, including crock-pot shortcuts, veggie-packed options, and even a copycat Olive Garden version. Let’s dive in!
Heart-Healthy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Creamy & Light Alfredo Sauce with Greek Yogurt
Say goodbye to heavy cream! This healthy chicken alfredo pasta recipe swaps traditional ingredients for non-fat Greek yogurt and low-sodium broth, cutting calories without sacrificing richness.
Servings:
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta (whole wheat or gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced)
- ½ tsp salt (optional)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup non-fat Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh parsley (garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside .
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook 6–8 minutes per side until golden. Remove and slice.
- Make the Sauce: Sauté garlic in the same skillet until fragrant. Add broth, simmer, then whisk in yogurt and Parmesan for a velvety texture .
- Combine: Toss pasta in sauce, top with chicken, and garnish with parsley.
Pro Tip: For extra creaminess, reserve ½ cup pasta water to adjust sauce consistency .
10 Must-Try Chicken Alfredo Pasta Variations
1. Chicken Alfredo with Jar Sauce
Short on time? Use a high-quality store-bought Alfredo sauce. Sauté chicken and garlic, then mix with cooked pasta and 1 jar of Prego® Alfredo Sauce. Add steamed broccoli for a veggie boost.
2. Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo
Layer chicken breasts, minced garlic, and 2 cups of broth in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 hours, shred the chicken, then stir in 1 cup of Greek yogurt and Parmesan. Toss with pasta.
3. Olive Garden Copycat Recipe
Recreate the iconic dish with heavy cream, butter, and fresh-grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. For authenticity, add a splash of white wine to the sauce .
4. Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli
Steam 2 cups of broccoli florets and toss them into the sauce with pasta. For a crunchy twist, roast the broccoli with olive oil and garlic first .
5. From-Scratch Alfredo Sauce
Melt ½ cup butter, whisk in 1 cup heavy cream and 1½ cups Parmesan. Add nutmeg for depth, and simmer until thickened .
Pro Tips for the Best Alfredo Pasta
- Avoid Grainy Sauce: Use freshly grated Parmesan—pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents .
- Boost Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes to the sauce .
- Meal Prep: Cook chicken and sauce separately; combine with fresh pasta before serving .
FAQs: Your Chicken Alfredo Questions Answered
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes! Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to revive creaminess .
Q: How do I thicken Alfredo sauce?
A: Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water) .
Q: What pasta pairs best?
A: Fettuccine is classic, but penne or rigatoni work well for sauce-filled bites .
Explore More Recipes
Creamy Shrimp Alfredo: Swap chicken for shrimp and add lemon zest Internal .
Vegan Alfredo Pasta: Use cashew cream and nutritional yeast Internal .
