One Pot Chicken Alfredo

One Pot Chicken Alfredo is a creamy, indulgent dish that delivers all the comfort and flavor of traditional Alfredo without the fuss. With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce, this one-pot wonder is the perfect solution for a delicious weeknight meal. The best part? You only need one pot to make it, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. By cooking everything in one pot, the pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors of the chicken, garlic, and creamy sauce, resulting in a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly rich and creamy. Whether you’re cooking for the family or preparing a cozy dinner for two, One Pot Chicken Alfredo is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One Pot, No Mess

Everything is cooked in one pot, making clean-up a breeze. No multiple pans or complicated steps—just simple, flavorful cooking.

2. Rich and Creamy

The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic creates a luxuriously creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly, making every bite a delicious indulgence.

3. Quick and Easy

In just 30 minutes, you can have a hearty and flavorful meal on the table, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

4. Customizable

Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms to make this dish even more nutritious, or swap the chicken for shrimp or turkey for variety.

5. Perfectly Seasoned

With the right balance of garlic, salt, and pepper, and the depth of flavor from freshly grated Parmesan cheese, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

this RECIPE

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 quart low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 pound penne pasta
• 4 cups freshly shredded Parmesan cheese (using a microplane)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

• Vegetable Add-ins: Add spinach, peas, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Use Shrimp or Turkey: For a different twist, substitute the chicken for shrimp or turkey breast.
• Low-Carb Version: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta for a lower-carb option.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and browned. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté 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 frequently, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Broth and Cream

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, ensuring the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Add the penne pasta to the pot and stir to combine with the broth and cream. Cover the pot and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Add the Chicken Back

Return the cooked chicken to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to heat through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt better and create a smoother sauce than pre-shredded cheese.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more chicken broth or cream. If it’s too thin, let it cook a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta continues to cook in the pot, be sure to check it for doneness before all the liquid is absorbed.
• Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrition, add vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms when cooking the chicken or after adding the pasta.

How to Serve

This One Pot Chicken Alfredo is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You could also serve it with a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, for an added touch of elegance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen up the sauce.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly after thawing. Let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then heat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers over low heat on the stovetop, adding a bit of chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work great, but feel free to swap in spaghetti, fettuccine, or any other pasta you have on hand.

2. Can I make this recipe without cream?

If you want to make a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with milk or a combination of milk and a little cream cheese for a creamy texture.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms either while sautéing the garlic or after the pasta has been added to the pot.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sauce for some extra heat.

5. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, if you have leftover chicken, feel free to add it in after cooking the garlic, just warming it up in the sauce with the pasta.

6. Can I use bottled Alfredo sauce instead of making it?

Yes, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce to save time, but homemade sauce offers a creamier and more flavorful result.

7. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Be sure to add the Parmesan cheese in small batches and stir continuously to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce.

8. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a slightly richer flavor.

9. How do I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor.

10. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cheese and chicken. Store in the refrigerator and add the cheese and chicken just before serving.

Conclusion

One Pot Chicken Alfredo is a quick, creamy, and comforting dish that comes together effortlessly in just one pot. It’s rich, flavorful, and sure to become a go-to favorite for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even casual gatherings. With tender chicken, pasta, and a velvety sauce, this dish offers all the indulgence of classic Alfredo but with minimal effort and cleanup. Give it a try, and enjoy the creamy goodness that’s perfect every time!

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