This One Pot Chicken Alfredo is creamy, cheesy, and super easy to make! With tender chicken and pasta cooked in a rich sauce, you’ll have a delicious meal without all the cleanup.
It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without the hassle. I love how quickly it comes together, and let’s be real, who doesn’t love a one pot wonder? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps cook the chicken. If you’re out of olive oil, canola or vegetable oil works well too! I like using extra virgin olive oil for its taste, but any cooking oil will do.
Chicken: Diced boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. You could also use turkey or even shrimp. For a vegetarian twist, try replacing the chicken with mushrooms or tofu!
Pasta: Penne is perfect here, but fusilli or rotini also work nicely since they hold the creamy sauce well. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free pasta as well.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you want a lighter version, you could substitute half-and-half or even use evaporated milk. Non-dairy options like coconut cream or oat milk can also work if needed.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for flavor. Pecorino Romano is a good substitute if you’re after something similar. Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan cheese flavor.
How Do I Get the Chicken Just Right?
The chicken is a vital part of your One Pot Chicken Alfredo, so it’s important to cook it properly. Here’s how:
- Start with medium-high heat to ensure the chicken browns nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; this can cause steaming instead of browning.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink inside.
- Make sure to season with salt and pepper before cooking for better flavor.
Once you remove the chicken, remember to keep the pot drippings to enhance the flavors of your sauce!
How to Make One Pot Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty One Pot Chicken Alfredo will take about 25 minutes total. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and around 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
In a large pot or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper for flavor, then add it to the pot. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Using the same pot where you cooked the chicken, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds, just until it starts to smell delicious and fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Pasta:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta along with the Italian seasoning. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook the pasta for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to stir in the heavy cream and the cooked chicken. Mix everything together well so it’s nicely combined.
5. Add the Parmesan:
Gradually sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while stirring. Keep mixing until the cheese melts and makes the dish creamy. This is where your Alfredo sauce comes to life!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt and pepper to suit your preferences.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your One Pot Chicken Alfredo with chopped parsley and some additional Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Penne?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber. Just keep in mind that it may cook slightly differently, so check the package instructions and adjust the cooking time accordingly, as it can take a couple of minutes longer to reach al dente.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with a Lighter Option?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version. However, the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. To maintain creaminess, consider adding a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with a bit of water as a thickener.
How to Store Leftovers Properly?
Store any leftover Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if it seems too thick. Stir occasionally for an even heat.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! You can toss in some spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers along with the pasta in step 3. Just make sure to cut them into small pieces so they cook quickly and evenly!
