Chicken alfredo is a classic Italian comfort food. Creamy cheesy pasta coating tender chicken makes for an indulgent yet easy dinner. But you can take this recipe from basic to spectacular with some simple seasonings. Use these tips on what to season chicken alfredo with to make it restaurant-quality.
Start with Salt and Pepper
Salt and pepper are a must for enhancing any savory dish. Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. The salt amplifies the flavor while the pepper provides a subtle heat This seasoning duo brings out the natural flavors of the chicken and pasta
Add Italian Herbs
Dried Italian herb blends are perfect for giving chicken alfredo an authentic flavor profile. Sprinkling on a mixture containing oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary adds herbaceous, woodsy notes The combination of these herbs is commonly used in Italian cuisine. Let them infuse into the dish as it simmers and finishes cooking.
Include Garlic Powder
Alfredo sauce is defined by its garlic-infused creaminess. While fresh minced garlic is ideal, garlic powder is a handy substitute for adding concentrated flavor. It provides a potent garlicky taste without the hassle of chopping and prepping. Just a sprinkle of garlic powder as you sauté the chicken enhances the entire dish.
Sprinkle Onion Powder
Onion powder combines well with garlic powder to provide a savory allium backbone. Its flavor is more pungent than fresh onion, so use it sparingly. But it packs an umami punch that boosts the overall taste profile of chicken alfredo.
Add Smoked Paprika
A dash of smoked paprika adds both flavor and visual appeal. Its sweet yet smoky taste pairs perfectly with creamy sauces. The red powder also gives the chicken a lovely golden-brown exterior when pan-seared. Smoked paprika is an easy way to make this pasta dish more interesting.
Include Nutmeg
Freshly grated nutmeg may seem like an unconventional seasoning for chicken alfredo. But it provides a wonderfully warm, spiced aroma. The nutmeg cuts through the richness of the sauce with its sweetness. It adds nuance and balances the savory parmesan cheese.
Use Lemon Juice and Zest
Bright citrus flavors from lemon juice and zest help lighten up heavy cream-based dishes. Adding some fresh lemon juice to the sauce as it simmers gives it a tangy taste. Grating lemon zest over the finished pasta provides a vibrant finish. Let the zest infuse as you gently toss the chicken and sauce with the fettuccine.
Garnish with Fresh Parsley or Basil
Fresh herbs are the perfect garnish for chicken alfredo. Chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley adds a pop of color and herbal flavor. Torn fresh basil leaves complete it with notes of sweetness. Scatter the herbs over individual plates or bowls for an aesthetic touch.
With just a few extra spices and herbs, chicken alfredo transforms from basic to sensational. Rely on salt, pepper, garlic, and Italian seasonings as your flavor base. Then customize it further with smoked paprika, nutmeg, citrus, or fresh herbs. Use your favorite seasoning combinations to make this creamy pasta dish your own.
What should I serve with chicken alfredo?
What should I do if my alfredo sauce breaks?
The best way to fix a broken sauce is to add a couple tablespoons of water or heavy cream and whisk vigorously while keeping the sauce over low heat. This will encourage the butter to re-emulsify and it will come back together and form a creamy sauce again.
Creamy Chicken Alfredo
FAQ
How should I season chicken for chicken alfredo?
What are the best seasonings to put in Alfredo?
For lazy days, I often use garlic powder but for gourmet days, I use fresh garlic. Seasoning: without seasonings, all you have is bland, creamy pasta! Salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasonings, red pepper flakes and nutmeg really level up the fettuccine Alfredo.
How do I spice up my chicken alfredo?
I love salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning in Alfredo. For a tangy twist, add lemon juice. And for extra flavor, grate some nutmeg.May 9, 2025