If you’re after a dinner that feels fancy but costs way less than takeaway, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo is your new go-to. It’s rich, comforting, and comes together with simple ingredients you probably already have.
This is one of those recipes that feels like a “treat meal”…but is secretly super budget-friendly and easy enough for a weeknight. Perfect for busy families, picky eaters, or when you just want something really satisfying.
And true to Saavy Family Kitchen style, it’s not just about how it tastes – we let you know up front how much it costs so you can make the best use of your budget. This is one of those meals in that “I can make this again next week” category.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Alfredo
- Cheaper than takeaway (and better!)
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Family-friendly and picky eater approved
- Uses simple, affordable ingredients
- Perfect for leftovers (if there are any!)
Ingredients
Serves 4
- 2 Chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper
- 1 Tbsp Olive oil
- 250g fettucine (or any pasta you like)
- 3 Tbsp Butter
- 4 Cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 Cup Thickened Cream
- 1/2 Cup Chicken stock
- 1 Cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 Tsp Italian Herbs
- Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish)
Ingredient Tips
- Olive Oil: Use a good quality olive oil for enhanced flavours
Ingredient Cost
Estimated Ingredient Cost in Australia as at April 4, 2026 – $12.70 per batch, $3.18 per serve
| Ingredient | Quantity | Estimated Cost |
| Chicken Breasts | 2 | $6.00 |
| Pasta | 1 Bunch | $1.20 |
| Thickened Cream | 1 Cup | $1.80 |
| Parmesan | 1 Cup | $2.00 |
| Garlic | 4 Cloves | $0.60 |
| Butter | 3 Tbsp | $0.70 |
| Italian Herbs | 1/2 tsp | $0.20 |
| Olive Oil | 1 Tbsp | $0.20 |
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt & pepper
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat and cook chicken for 6-7 minutes each side until golden and cooked enough, Rest, then slice.
- Cook pasta according to packet instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt butter and saute garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add cream and chicken stock. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in parmesan and herbs until sauce thickens.
- Add cooked pasta and toss to coat.
- Top with sliced chicken and garnish with parsley. Serve immediately.
Saavy Budget-friendly Ideas
- Use home brand cream and pasta – noone will even notice
- Stretch the meal by adding mushrooms or broccoli
- Make it meat-free for an even cheaper version
- Double the sauce and save half for another meal
You’ll still get a delicious result for less.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Garlic Parmesan Alfredo Chicken Pasta
- Use freshly grated parmesan – it melts better and tastes richer.
- Don’t overcook the chicken. The juice is everything.
- Reserve a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Let the sauce gently simmer – don’t boil it or it can split the cream.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using pre-shredded cheese (doesn’t melt properly)
- Cooking on a heat level that is too high (the sauce can separate)
- Overcooking the chicken (causing it to become dry)
- Skipping seasoning (it makes a huge difference)
A good olive oil also makes a big difference in this recipe – especially for flavour and texture.
See our top picks here
Storage & Leftovers
This recipe will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge when placed in an airtight container.
To reheat, add a splash of milk or water to bring the sauce back.
It is not freezer friendly though as cream sauces can split.
Final Thoughts
This is one of those recipes that proves you don’t need expensive ingredients to make something seriously delicious. It’s creamy, comforting and guaranteed to be on repeat in your house.