Creamy Chicken Alfredo in 30 Minutes

Ever wondered if it’s possible to create a restaurant-quality pasta dish in less time than it takes to get delivery? What if I told you that a luxuriously creamy chicken alfredo recipe could be on your table in just half an hour? This isn’t just any quick meal—it’s a game-changer for busy weeknights when you crave something indulgent without the fuss.

This creamy chicken alfredo recipe combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety sauce that comes together with surprising ease. Perfect for those evenings when time is short but you refuse to compromise on flavor.

Ingredients List

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet high-impact ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that signature creamy texture and rich flavor profile.

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta (substitute with penne or linguine if preferred)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch)
• 1 cup heavy cream (half-and-half works for a lighter version)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (pre-grated works but fresh is better)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more for pasta water)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional but recommended)
• Fresh parsley for garnish, chopped

For those watching their calories, consider using evaporated milk instead of heavy cream or opt for a light cream cheese to maintain creaminess with fewer calories.

Timing

This creamy chicken alfredo recipe truly delivers on its 30-minute promise:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

That’s 40% faster than traditional alfredo recipes that often require 50+ minutes. The streamlined process makes this perfect for a quick chicken dinner that doesn’t sacrifice quality for convenience.