Grilled Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible
There are certain meals that bring together comfort, flavor, and elegance in a single plate, and grilled chicken Alfredo pasta is one of them. This recipe combines juicy, well-seasoned grilled chicken with rich, creamy fettuccine Alfredo, creating a dish that is both filling and indulgent. The best part is that it looks restaurant-worthy but can easily be prepared in your own kitchen. Whether you are cooking for your family, preparing for a dinner date, or hosting friends, this chicken Alfredo pasta recipe will always impress.
Pasta recipes have long been associated with Italian cuisine, and Alfredo sauce is one of the most beloved pasta sauces worldwide. The velvety combination of butter, cream, and Parmesan creates a silky base that perfectly coats every strand of pasta. When paired with grilled chicken seasoned with herbs and spices, the result is a well-rounded meal that brings both protein and carbs together in harmony.
This recipe will walk you through the process of making creamy Alfredo pasta from scratch, grilling chicken to perfection, and putting it all together for a meal that you will want to make over and over again.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Alfredo Pasta
To prepare this dish, you will need simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry and fridge. The balance of freshness and richness is what makes this recipe so special.
For the Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of half a lemon
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- Water for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making grilled chicken Alfredo pasta is not complicated, but it does require careful timing so that your chicken, pasta, and sauce all come together at the right moment. Here’s how to do it step by step.
Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken breasts on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice each breast in half lengthwise to create thinner fillets. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and remain juicy. Place the chicken pieces in a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Toss well until the chicken is evenly coated. Cover and let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes. For best results, marinate for 1 to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a tablespoon of salt. Drop the fettuccine into the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the pasta is al dente, drain but reserve one cup of pasta water. Set aside.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken pieces onto the hot grill and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips or cubes. This ensures the juices redistribute and the meat stays tender.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes. Add grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked fettuccine directly into the Alfredo sauce. Toss the pasta until every strand is well coated with the creamy sauce. Allow it to sit for a minute over low heat to soak up the flavors.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Arrange the pasta on a large serving platter. Place the grilled chicken slices on top or to the side of the pasta. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips for the Perfect Grilled Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and gives the sauce a richer flavor.
- Do not overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta holds up better when tossed with Alfredo sauce.
- If you want extra flavor in your chicken, add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Let the chicken rest before slicing. This simple step ensures juicier bites.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
Variations of Chicken Alfredo Pasta
One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can easily switch up ingredients to create different versions of Alfredo pasta.
- Shrimp Alfredo: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Simply sauté shrimp in butter and garlic until pink, then add to the pasta.
- Veggie Alfredo: Add broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to the Alfredo sauce for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Cajun Chicken Alfredo: Season chicken with Cajun spices for a smoky, spicy variation.
- Low-Carb Alfredo: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter, carb-conscious meal.
- Four-Cheese Alfredo: Use a blend of Parmesan, mozzarella, provolone, and Romano for an extra cheesy version.
What to Serve with Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Grilled chicken Alfredo pasta is already a filling meal, but you can pair it with delicious sides for a complete dinner.
- Garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping into the Alfredo sauce.
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette for balance.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.
- A glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with creamy pasta dishes.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, allow them to cool before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop over low heat. Avoid microwaving for too long, as the chicken may dry out.
This dish can also be frozen. Place cooled pasta and chicken in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 720
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fat: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes, but homemade Alfredo sauce always tastes fresher and richer. If using store-bought, you can elevate it by adding sautéed garlic and extra Parmesan.
Can I bake the pasta after mixing it with sauce?
Absolutely. Transfer the pasta to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Can I make Alfredo sauce without cream?
Yes, you can substitute with milk and a bit of cream cheese for creaminess, though the texture will be slightly different.
How do I prevent Alfredo sauce from separating?
Keep the sauce on low heat and avoid boiling after adding the cheese. Stir constantly to maintain a smooth consistency.
Final Thoughts
Grilled chicken Alfredo pasta is one of those meals that never goes out of style. It is creamy, cheesy, and hearty while being simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. Once you try making this recipe at home, you’ll realize it’s far better than takeout and can be customized in countless ways. From the juicy grilled chicken to the velvety Alfredo sauce coating each strand of pasta, this dish delivers pure comfort with every bite.
