Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of the cooking water.
Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken strips lightly with salt and pepper.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium.
Melt the butter and stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for 30–60 seconds, or until fragrant (be careful not to brown the garlic).
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously.
Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer, then add the grated Parmesan cheese.
Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (optional).
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked fettuccine and the chicken back into the skillet.
Toss to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, use a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Remove from heat.
Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired.
Serve immediately while hot.