The 27-year-old Scotland international right-back has found himself out of favour at Aston Villa this season after the emergence of Matt Lowton.
Forest chairman Omar Al Hasawi said: "Like most of the signings we have made, Alan brings great experience to our squad.
"He has played at the very highest level and will be a big asset to us over the next six weeks."
Hutton, a £9m signing by Tottenham from Glasgow Rangers, joined Villa on the same day as another Spurs man who is now at the City Ground, Jermaine Jenas.