Jump to Recipe Print RecipeWhisking together the flavors of Italy and the warmth of home, I was captivated by my latest creation: Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo with Prosciutto. This creamy pasta dish not only delivers comfort but also brings a touch of elegance to any weeknight dinner. In just 35 minutes, you can transform simple pantry staples into a satisfying meal that your family will adore. The tender chicken, vibrant asparagus, and rich sauce come together to create a dish that feels both indulgent and effortlessly quick to prepare. Plus, with the option to customize ingredients—from swapping out vegetables to adjusting the richness—you can make it your own. Are you ready to elevate your pasta game and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite! Why is this recipe a must-try? Indulgent Comfort: This Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo with Prosciutto is the epitome of cozy dining, with creamy pasta that melts hearts. Quick and Easy: In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal that fits perfectly into your busy week! Versatile and Fun: Feel free to switch out veggies or proteins; use spinach or broccoli instead of asparagus, or even try Garlic Chicken Zucchini for a twist. Elegant Presentation: Impress family and friends with this dish that combines gourmet flair with accessible ingredients. Perfect Pairing: Serve with garlic bread or a light side salad to create a full meal your loved ones will rave about! Savory Layers: The combination of crispy prosciutto, rich Parmesan, and fragrant basil offers flavor in every bite, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive in and make this delightful dish a staple in your culinary repertoire! Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Ingredients • Gather these ingredients to create a comforting and creamy dish your family will love! For the Pasta Linguine or Fettuccine – The main base of our dish, providing the perfect structure to hold the rich sauce. For the Chicken Chicken Tenders – Offers lean protein that cooks quickly; swap with cubed rotisserie chicken for a speedy option. Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds depth of flavor and helps achieve that golden sear on the chicken. Italian Seasoning – Infuses aromatic herbs into the chicken; consider using a homemade blend for a personal touch. For the Sauce Salted Butter – This brings richness to the sauce and melts beautifully for a smooth texture. Garlic – Fresh cloves will give an aromatic kick; avoid dried versions for the best flavor. Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Balances the creaminess with added depth; vegetable broth is a great alternative. Heavy Cream – Essential for that luxuriously creamy Alfredo texture; substitute half with broth for a lighter version. Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, umami hit; Pecorino Romano can work as a delightful swap. Vegetables Asparagus – Introduces a fresh crunch and vibrant color; other veggies like spinach or broccoli can be used as substitutions. Finishings Basil Pesto – Provides an herby richness signature to this dish; both homemade and store-bought varieties are fantastic. Prosciutto – Delivers a savory, salty note; feel free to swap with pancetta or omit if you prefer. Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the perfect flavor balance. Chili Flakes – Kick up the heat factor; this is completely optional based on your spice preference. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Step 1: Cook Pasta In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add linguine or fettuccine and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. In the final 2-3 minutes, toss in asparagus to cook alongside the pasta. Once done, drain both the pasta and asparagus, and set aside while you prepare the rest of your Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo. Step 2: Prepare Chicken Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of extra virgin olive oil. Season chicken tenders with Italian seasoning and black pepper before placing them in the hot skillet. Cook for about 5-8 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is crisp, golden, and cooked through. This will add a delightful texture to your creamy Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo. Step 3: Add Pesto to Chicken Once the chicken is ready, lower the heat slightly and stir in the basil pesto. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Next, add the sliced prosciutto to warm through for about 1 minute, infusing the chicken with savory goodness that enhances the overall dish’s richness. Step 4: Make Alfredo Sauce In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add salted butter. Once melted, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in low sodium chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened, creating a luxuriously creamy sauce for the Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo. Step 5: Combine Ingredients Stir in any remaining basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until incorporated into the sauce. Add the drained pasta and asparagus to the skillet, tossing well to coat everything evenly. Heat through for about 2 minutes, ensuring every strand of pasta is enveloped in that creamy goodness, elevating your Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo experience. Step 6: Serve Plate your Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo and finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and crispy prosciutto on top. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves to brighten the dish. This delightful presentation will impress your family and friends, turning an ordinary meal into a restaurant-quality dining experience right at home! Make Ahead Options These Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo with Prosciutto are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the pasta and asparagus up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them after draining to prevent sticking. Similarly, prepare the chicken with seasonings and pesto ahead of time, keeping it sealed in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet, add the prepared sauce ingredients, and toss in the pasta and asparagus until everything is warm. This ensures your meal maintains its creamy texture and flavor, making dinner a breeze for those busy weeknights! How to Store and Freeze Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the basil chicken fettuccine alfredo completely before sealing the container to maintain freshness. Freezer: If you want to preserve it longer, freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture. Tips for Best Results: Always refrigerate or freeze within 2 hours of cooking to keep the flavors and quality of your basil chicken fettuccine alfredo intact. Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine as you adapt this recipe to suit your taste and preferences! Vegetable Swap: Replace asparagus with veggies like spinach or broccoli for different textures. Pasta Choice: Use penne or rigatoni for a fun twist; they hold the sauce beautifully and change the vibe of the dish. Meat Variation: Swap prosciutto with pancetta or crispy bacon for a smokier flavor that adds depth to your Alfredo. Creamy Alternative: For a lighter option, mix half heavy cream and half chicken broth, keeping the dish deliciously satisfying without all the calories. Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh spinach or kale for additional nutrients and a pop of color. They blend well and give you a heartier meal. Cheese Change: Experiment with cheese like Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper taste; it can really elevate the dish. Heat Adjustment: Increase spice by adding more chili flakes or try freshly chopped jalapeños for a fiery kick that livens up every bite. Sauce Variations: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and tang that complements the heaviness of the sauce beautifully. As you explore these variations, remember that you can also take a look at other comforting dishes like Keto Chicken Alfredo or White Chicken Chili for even more inspiration. Happy cooking! What to Serve with Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo? Transform your meal into a delightful feast with the perfect companions to this creamy pasta dish. Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery classic that soaks up every last drop of the Alfredo sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the dish perfectly. Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant, nutritious side adds a delightful crunch and a pop of color, complementing the flavors of the pasta beautifully. Rosemary Focaccia: Soft, fluffy bread infused with herbaceous flavors makes a fantastic addition, ideal for mopping up that luscious sauce. White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio adds a refreshing touch, its acidity balancing the creamy richness. Lemon Sorbet: A light, citrusy dessert cleanses the palate, leaving a bright finish after the indulgent meal. Consider these pairings to craft a memorable dining experience that your loved ones will crave again and again! Expert Tips for Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to soften when combined with the sauce; this keeps it from becoming mushy. Crispy Chicken: Ensure the chicken is browned well for an appetizing texture that stands up to the creamy sauce in your Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic rather than powdered for a deeper flavor; it beautifully complements the richness of the dish. Creamy Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much after cooking, add a splash of chicken broth to regain a silky texture for your pasta. Customize Flavor: Don’t hesitate to adjust chili flakes according to your family’s spice preference; it’s a simple way to tailor the dish to everyone’s liking. Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe FAQs How do I know if my chicken is fresh? Absolutely! Look for chicken that is pink in color with no dark spots or odors. The flesh should feel firm to the touch but not slimy. If you see any discoloration or it smells off, it’s best to throw it out. What’s the best way to store leftovers? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo cool completely before sealing to keep it fresh. I often reheat it gently on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much. Can I freeze my Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo? Very! Just let it cool down completely, then distribute it into airtight freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency. What should I do if my sauce is too thick? If you find your Alfredo sauce has thickened too much during the cooking process, no worries! Simply add a bit of chicken broth or heavy cream while cooking on low heat, stirring continuously until you achieve the desired consistency. This will help keep the rich flavor while making it smooth and creamy again. Are there any dietary considerations for this dish? Definitely! This recipe contains chicken and dairy, making it unsuitable for vegans and those with lactose intolerance. However, you can easily tweak it by using plant-based chicken substitutes and dairy-free cream to accommodate these dietary needs. Consider checking for allergies related to the specific ingredients used, such as gluten in pasta or nuts in pesto. What vegetables can I substitute in this recipe? You can customize it to your liking! Asparagus can be swapped with spinach, broccoli, or even peas for a different flair. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly, as some vegetables cook faster than others. The more, the merrier! Your family will love experimenting with various veggie options in this creamy Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo! Creamy Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo for Cozy Nights An indulgent and creamy Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo that combines comfort and elegance in just 35 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 oz Linguine or FettuccineFor the Chicken1 lb Chicken Tenders or cubed rotisserie chicken2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil1 tbsp Italian Seasoning or homemade blendFor the Sauce4 tbsp Salted Butter3 cloves Garlic minced1 cup Low Sodium Chicken Broth or vegetable broth1 cup Heavy Cream optional to substitute half with broth1 cup Parmesan Cheese grated, or Pecorino RomanoVegetables1 cup Asparagus or other substitutes like spinach or broccoliFinishings1/4 cup Basil Pesto homemade or store-bought4 slices Prosciutto or swap with pancettaKosher Salt to tasteBlack Pepper to tasteChili Flakes optional Equipment large potSkillet Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsIn a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add linguine or fettuccine and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. In the final 2-3 minutes, toss in asparagus to cook alongside the pasta. Once done, drain both the pasta and asparagus, and set aside.Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of extra virgin olive oil. Season chicken tenders with Italian seasoning and black pepper before placing them in the hot skillet. Cook for about 5-8 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is crisp, golden, and cooked through.Once the chicken is ready, lower the heat slightly and stir in the basil pesto. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add salted butter. Once melted, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in low sodium chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.Stir in any remaining basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until incorporated into the sauce. Add the drained pasta and asparagus to the skillet, tossing well to coat everything evenly. Heat through for about 2 minutes.Plate your Basil Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo and finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and crispy prosciutto on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 1.5mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on low heat with a splash of broth or cream to restore texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
