This Creamy Buttery Garlic Chicken Fettuccine is the perfect cozy dish! With tender chicken and rich garlic butter sauce over silky fettuccine, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
Plus, it’s super easy to whip up on a busy night. Just cook, mix, and serve! And trust me, everyone will want seconds – if not thirds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: Fettuccine gives this dish its classic look and texture, but you can swap in linguine or tagliatelle if you prefer. Gluten-free pasta is also an option for those with dietary restrictions.
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness, but you could substitute with thighs for a juicier bite. Shrimp would also work well here for a twist!
Heavy Cream: The cream creates that dreamy sauce. If you want to lighten it up, half-and-half can be a good substitute, but keep in mind the sauce may be less rich.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a delicious flavor. You can use Pecorino Romano as a substitute, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. I usually love a bit more cheese on top for serving!
How Do I Achieve a Creamy Sauce Without Curdling?
Making a smooth and creamy sauce is essential, and there are a few tips to keep it perfect. Here’s how to do it:
- Keep the heat on low to medium when adding the cream. High heat can cause the cream to curdle.
- Once you add the cream, stir continuously until it gently simmers. You’re looking for a slight bubble, not a rolling boil.
- Incorporate the cheese gradually and stir until fully melted. This helps it blend smoothly into the sauce.
- If the sauce thickens too much, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
Follow these tips, and you’re sure to get a creamy, dreamy garlic sauce every time!
How to Make Creamy Buttery Garlic Chicken Fettuccine
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into thin strips
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready and then just 20 minutes cooking up this creamy delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When finished, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil plus 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Season your chicken strips with salt and pepper, and add them to the skillet. Cook until they turn golden brown and are no longer pink in the center, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Let it melt, and then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute – you want it fragrant but not brown! Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the optional red pepper flakes, and keep stirring until the cheese melts, about 3-4 minutes. The sauce should thicken nicely.
4. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked chicken back into the creamy sauce and stir to combine. Then, gently fold in the cooked fettuccine, tossing everything together so that every noodle is coated in that delicious creamy garlic sauce.
5. Serve & Garnish:
Finally, taste your dish and season with a little more salt and pepper if you need it. Serve hot, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top!
Enjoy your creamy buttery garlic chicken fettuccine – it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for this recipe, you can substitute it with linguine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta type you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If heavy cream isn’t available, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, or a mix of milk and butter (1 cup of milk with 2 tablespoons of melted butter) as a substitute. Just know that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your dish. Sauté them with the garlic after you remove the chicken, and then continue with the rest of the recipe as usual.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to help loosen the sauce!
