Chicken Pasta Alfredo With Peas

Name: Chicken Pasta Alfredo With Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup frozen peas; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Plates

I absolutely love making Chicken Pasta Alfredo with Peas for a quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet effortlessly delicious. The creamy Alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken and bright green peas, creating a dish that is both comforting and vibrant. After a long day, there's nothing like the satisfaction of twirling pasta coated in a rich, satisfying sauce. This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights when you still want something homemade and scrumptious.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:33:34.747Z

When I first tried making Chicken Pasta Alfredo with Peas, I was surprised by how simple yet satisfying the meal turned out. The key is in the sauce — using heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan creates a luscious texture that clings to the pasta. I also like to sauté the garlic slowly for a fragrant base that really enhances the flavors.

One of my favorite tips is to add the peas toward the end of cooking the sauce. This ensures they retain their vibrant color and slight crunch, which offers a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta, elevating the dish to a whole new level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy Alfredo sauce with a hint of garlic and cheese goodness
Perfectly cooked chicken that adds protein and flavor
Peas add a pop of color and fresh taste to each bite

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of Chicken Pasta Alfredo with Peas is undoubtedly the creamy Alfredo sauce. Made with heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, it offers a rich and indulgent base that beautifully coats the pasta. Using freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-packaged varieties will enhance the flavor and texture; it melts more smoothly, resulting in a silkier sauce. You can find good-quality cheese at local cheese shops or the deli section of your grocery store. If you're in a pinch, use Pecorino Romano as a substitute for a slightly sharper taste.

The choice of pasta can affect the overall experience of this dish. Fettuccine is ideal as its flat shape allows it to hold onto the creamy sauce better than other pasta types. If you're looking for alternatives, consider using tagliatelle or even penne for a different texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose, as thinner varieties will cook faster. At all times, taste when nearing the suggested cooking time to achieve that delicate al dente texture.

Cooking Techniques for Success

When cooking the chicken, it is important not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause steaming instead of searing. Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a nice brown crust, which enhances flavor through the Maillard reaction. If you notice the chicken is sticking, let it cook a bit longer; it will naturally release when properly seared. You can also deglaze the skillet with a splash of chicken broth after removing the chicken to capture any browned bits and infuse extra flavor into the sauce.

As for the Alfredo sauce, it's crucial to add the cream gradually while stirring continuously to prevent curdling. Keep the heat on low to medium; too high, and the cream might separate. Once the cheese is incorporated, the sauce should appear glossy and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it ends up being too thick, the reserved pasta water is your friend! Gradually add it until you reach your desired consistency without sacrificing the creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Chicken Pasta Alfredo with Peas.

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb chicken breast, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup frozen peas
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Now that you have all your ingredients, let's start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Chicken Pasta Alfredo with Peas.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and frozen peas to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your creamy pasta dish!

Your Chicken Pasta Alfredo with Peas is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

Make-Ahead Tips

This chicken pasta dish is a great candidate for meal prep. You can cook the chicken and make the Alfredo sauce in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you are ready to serve, just reheat the sauce gently on low heat and add the peas directly into the sauce to warm through before combining with freshly cooked pasta.

If you're considering freezing leftovers, it's best to freeze the sautéed chicken and Alfredo sauce together, but be mindful that the creaminess might change upon thawing. To reinvigorate the sauce, reheat it gently and incorporate a splash of extra cream or milk to help restore its creamy texture, ensuring each bite is delightful.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your Chicken Pasta Alfredo with Peas by serving it with a simple side salad, incorporating crunchy greens like arugula or spinach dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar. This will add freshness to counterbalance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread is another fantastic choice; its crisp texture and flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta.

For an extra touch, consider topping the dish with toasted pine nuts or freshly cracked black pepper before serving. This will introduce a nice nuttiness and added depth of flavor, elevating your meal even further. A sprinkle of lemon zest can also brighten the dish and balance out the richness, making each bite a little more refreshing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer.

→ How can I make the dish lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and store it separately to combine with the pasta later.

→ What can I serve with Chicken Pasta Alfredo?

A side salad or some garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish!