One Pot Chicken Alfredo Recipe

One Pot Chicken Alfredo is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights when you crave something creamy, savory, and satisfying. This easy-to-make recipe brings together tender chicken, garlic, and a rich Alfredo sauce all in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. The combination of creamy Parmesan cheese, hearty pasta, and a flavorful broth creates an irresistible dish that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s a quick dinner that requires minimal effort and time, making it an ideal option when you’re short on time but want something delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy meal for two, this One Pot Chicken Alfredo is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

This dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a decadent and filling meal. The richness of the cream and the depth of the chicken broth blend seamlessly with the chicken and pasta, making each bite a comforting experience. With just a few easy steps and simple ingredients, you can whip up this creamy chicken Alfredo in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One Pot Chicken Alfredo is not only incredibly flavorful, but it’s also effortless to prepare and clean up after. The dish is made in just one pot, which means less hassle and fewer dishes to clean. The chicken is perfectly cooked and tender, while the Alfredo sauce is creamy and cheesy, coating the pasta for a rich and satisfying bite. The addition of fresh Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce beautifully. Plus, the entire meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy nights.

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Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Chicken breast, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Low sodium chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Penne pasta
• Freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Parsley

Variations

There are plenty of ways to switch up this recipe to suit your tastes:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for a meatless version.
• Spicy Chicken Alfredo: Add some red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Different Pasta: While penne pasta is used here, you can substitute it with other types of pasta like fettuccine, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
• Add Bacon: For extra flavor, crisp up some bacon and toss it into the dish for a smoky touch.
• Grilled Chicken: Use grilled chicken for a slightly different flavor profile if you prefer charred, smoky chicken.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes or until it’s browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic

In the same pot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 3: Add Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Pasta

Add the penne pasta to the pot and stir to coat it in the liquid. Cover the pot and let the pasta cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. Make sure the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Chicken

Once the pasta is cooked, add the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese and the cooked chicken back into the pot. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt better and add more flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
• Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of chicken broth or increase the amount of cream. For a thinner sauce, add a little more broth or water.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to monitor the pasta while it cooks to avoid overcooking, as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce once the heat is turned off.
• Reserve Pasta Water: If you find the sauce too thick, you can add a little pasta water to help loosen it up.

How to Serve

One Pot Chicken Alfredo is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Try serving it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A glass of white wine or a light iced tea can also complement the dish nicely.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of One Pot Chicken Alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, be sure to add a splash of cream or chicken broth to help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a pot over medium heat, adding a little extra cream or broth as needed.

Reheating

To reheat the dish, simply warm it over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Adding a little more cream or chicken broth will help bring back the creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or spaghetti.

2. Can I make this dish without cream?

You can substitute the cream with milk for a lighter version, but it will result in a thinner sauce.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli would all be great additions.

4. How can I make the dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers.

5. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but you’ll need to thaw the chicken first before cooking.

6. How long does this recipe take to make?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.

7. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

While homemade sauce adds more flavor, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce if you’re in a rush.

8. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta for gluten-free pasta.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients to serve a larger crowd. Just be sure to use a bigger pot.

10. Can I use a different cheese?

You can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago, but it will change the flavor.

Conclusion

One Pot Chicken Alfredo is a rich, creamy, and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and clean up after. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and hearty pasta makes it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you make it for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious, filling meal that everyone will love.

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