One-pot chicken alfredo is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and full of rich flavors, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Everything—yes, even the pasta—cooks in one pot, cutting down on dishes without sacrificing taste. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious alfredo sauce, it’s hard to resist!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta (uncooked)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned but not fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Build the Base
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Add Pasta
- Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Incorporate the Chicken
- Return the partially cooked chicken to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of pasta cooking. This allows the chicken to finish cooking while absorbing the creamy flavors.
Finish the Sauce
- Once the pasta is al dente, stir in the parmesan cheese and butter. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Toss in spinach, broccoli florets, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.
- Shrimp Alfredo: Swap the chicken for shrimp; add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
- Spicy Alfredo: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles instead of pasta.
Cooking Note
If the sauce thickens too much while cooling, add a splash of chicken broth or milk and stir until the desired consistency is reached.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this one-pot chicken alfredo with a side of garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad.
- For a complete Italian-inspired meal, serve with roasted vegetables or bruschetta.
Tips
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, but check frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Fresh Parmesan Is Key: Grate your own parmesan for the best flavor and smoother sauce. Pre-grated cheese may result in a gritty texture.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture.
Timing Breakdown
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving, approx.)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 32g
- Carbs: 48g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work just as well. Adjust cooking time based on the pasta type.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be slightly less rich. For a non-dairy option, try coconut cream or cashew cream.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare it in advance and store it. Reheat gently with a bit of liquid to restore creaminess.
Conclusion
This one-pot chicken alfredo is creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make—all without a pile of dishes! Perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving a comforting pasta dish, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy restaurant-quality alfredo right at home!