Ultimate Comfort Food with Chicken Alfredo (Print version)

Juicy chicken and fettuccine tossed in a silky Parmesan Alfredo sauce for a cozy 35-minute pasta dinner.

# Ingredients:

For the chicken

01 - 1 lb (450 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, 2 medium pieces
02 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
03 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided
04 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
05 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the pasta and Alfredo sauce

06 - 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine
07 - 4 tablespoons (56 g) unsalted butter
08 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream
10 - 1 1/4 cups (110 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
11 - 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg, optional
12 - 1/2 cup (120 ml) reserved pasta water, plus more as needed
13 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine until al dente, then reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.
02 - Pat the chicken dry. Season both sides with 3/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and the Italian seasoning.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden and 165°F in the thickest part.
04 - Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and rest for 5 minutes. Slice into strips about 1/2 inch thick.
05 - Reduce the skillet heat to medium-low. Melt the butter, add the garlic, and cook for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
06 - Add the heavy cream and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan, nutmeg if using, remaining salt, and remaining pepper until smooth.
07 - Add the drained fettuccine to the sauce with 1/4 cup reserved pasta water. Toss until glossy, adding more pasta water a tablespoon at a time if needed.
08 - Divide the pasta among bowls. Top with sliced chicken, parsley, and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served immediately while the Alfredo sauce is glossy.
02 - Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
03 - Cook chicken to 165°F for food safety.