Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience with this mouthwatering Basil Alfredo with Chicken recipe! Imagine twirling your fork into a plate of perfectly cooked fettuccine, draped in a luxuriously creamy sauce, studded with tender chicken, and kissed with fragrant fresh basil. This isn't just a meal—it's a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add fettuccine pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the Alfredo sauce. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat until it becomes foamy and fragrant.
- Pour heavy cream into the skillet with melted butter. Stir continuously and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reducing heat to prevent boiling.
- Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep the sauce warm on low heat.
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to adjust sauce consistency.
- Add the sliced cooked chicken to the Alfredo sauce, stirring to heat through and coat evenly.
- Gently fold the drained pasta into the chicken and Alfredo sauce, ensuring each strand is well-coated.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the pasta, stirring to distribute evenly.
- Serve immediately in warm pasta bowls, garnishing with additional fresh basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the most authentic and rich flavor. Pre-packaged grated cheese won't melt as smoothly.
- Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent mushiness when mixing with the sauce. Reserve some pasta water to help adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Keep the Alfredo sauce on low heat to prevent separation and maintain its creamy texture.
- For extra flavor, consider briefly sautéing the chicken with garlic or Italian herbs before adding to the sauce.
- Fresh basil makes a significant difference—chop it just before adding to preserve its vibrant flavor and aroma.
- Serve immediately after preparing to enjoy the sauce at its creamiest and most delectable state.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 28g
Cholesterol: 180mg
