If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish with a gourmet flair, this Grilled Chicken Alfredo recipe is just what you need. Combining the rich, velvety texture of Alfredo sauce with the smoky flavor of grilled chicken, this dish is a standout weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. Made with simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy families or anyone who loves Italian-American cuisine.
Grilled Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Course: UncategorizedCuisine: Italian-AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes20
minutes650
kcalGrilled Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Pinch of nutmeg
12 oz fettuccine (or pasta of choice)
Salt for pasta water
Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and rub them with olive oil.
- Season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
- Top with grilled chicken slices.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
Recipe Video
Serving Suggestions
Grilled Chicken Alfredo pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete Italian-style meal, serve it with garlic bread or a warm baguette. A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Steamed or roasted vegetables—like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini—also work well to lighten the plate and boost nutrition.
Savings Suggestions
To save money, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts—they’re often cheaper and just as flavorful when grilled. Buying Parmesan in blocks and grating it yourself can be more economical and tastes fresher than pre-shredded. You can also swap heavy cream for a mix of milk and a touch of butter for a lighter, budget-friendly Alfredo sauce. Shopping in bulk for pasta and pantry staples like garlic and olive oil can further stretch your grocery dollars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
A: Yes, store-bought Alfredo sauce can save time. Just heat it with grilled chicken and cooked pasta. For added flavor, sauté some garlic or stir in fresh Parmesan.
Q: What’s the best pasta for Alfredo?
A: Fettuccine is traditional, but penne, linguine, or even spaghetti work well. Choose what you have on hand or prefer.
A: Avoid overheating and stir gently. If using homemade Alfredo, keep the temperature low and add cheese gradually for a smooth, creamy texture.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Grill the chicken and make the sauce ahead. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days, then reheat and combine when ready to serve.
Q: Is there a dairy-free version?
A: Absolutely. Use unsweetened almond or oat milk with a dairy-free butter and nutritional yeast or dairy-free Parmesan for a plant-based Alfredo alternative.
