simple chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce
The Best simple chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce
What I appreciate most about this dish is how versatile it is. It works just as well for a busy weeknight as it does for a casual dinner with friends. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some protein with the chicken, and if I’m feeling extra health-conscious, I’ll toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach to balance it out. The jarred sauce keeps things simple, but you can easily jazz it up with garlic, herbs, or a little extra Parmesan if you want to make it your own. It’s the kind of meal that never disappoints, and that’s why it’s a staple in my kitchen.
Easy Chicken Alfredo with Jar Sauce
A quick and creamy chicken alfredo recipe using jarred sauce for convenience. Perfect for weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 1 (15 oz) jar alfredo sauce
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream (optional, for thinning)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside. -
2
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. -
3
Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips. -
4
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in the jarred alfredo sauce and milk (if using), stirring to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through. -
5
Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen. -
6
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. -
7
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet or pan
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Tongs or spatula
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Chicken Alfredo with Jar Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Alfredo with Jar Sauce
1. Can I use fresh pasta instead of dried pasta for chicken alfredo?
Yes! Fresh pasta works great in this recipe. Since fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried (usually 2-4 minutes), add it to the boiling water just a few minutes before you plan to combine everything with the sauce. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
2. How can I make the jarred alfredo sauce taste richer?
To enhance the flavor of jarred alfredo sauce, try these simple upgrades:
– Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese while heating the sauce.
– Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for extra creaminess.
– Mix in a pinch of garlic powder, black pepper, or Italian seasoning.
– Sauté minced garlic in butter before adding the sauce for depth.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best to store components separately to prevent sogginess. Cook the pasta and chicken, then refrigerate them in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce gently on the stove (adding a splash of milk if it thickens) and combine everything just before serving.
4. What protein can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
You can swap chicken for other proteins like:
– Shrimp: Sauté for 2-3 minutes until pink.
– Grilled or rotisserie chicken: Shred and add at the end.
– Bacon or pancetta: Cook until crispy and crumble over the dish.
– Tofu or chickpeas: For a vegetarian option, pan-fry or roast first.
5. How do I prevent the alfredo sauce from separating or becoming grainy?
To keep the sauce smooth:
– Heat the jarred sauce gently over low-medium heat, stirring often.
– Avoid boiling it vigorously, as high heat can cause separation.
– If it thickens too much, stir in a little warm milk or pasta water.
– For extra stability, whisk in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water before heating.