Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece! This Garlic Basil Chicken Pasta with Alfredo Sauce is the ultimate comfort food that combines the rich, creamy indulgence of classic Alfredo with the bright, aromatic punch of fresh basil. In just 40 minutes, you'll create a dish so delicious, it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds - and asking for the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Season diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer and reduce heat to low.
- Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Add cooked chicken back to the skillet, stirring to coat with Alfredo sauce.
- Drain cooked pasta and add directly to the skillet, tossing to combine with sauce and chicken.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh chopped basil. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with extra basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- For the most flavorful chicken, pat the meat dry before seasoning to ensure perfect browning and caramelization.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged - it melts more smoothly and provides a more intense flavor.
- The key to a perfect Alfredo sauce is low and slow heating. Keep the heat on low when adding cheese to prevent separation and ensure a silky smooth texture.
- Reserve your pasta water before draining! This starchy liquid is a secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency and helping the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Don't overcook the pasta - aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
- Fresh basil makes a huge difference - chop it just before adding to preserve its vibrant flavor and bright green color.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water to thin it out. If it's too thin, continue simmering to reduce and thicken.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 25g
Cholesterol: 210mg
