One Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Weeknights in our household used to be a whirlwind of rushed dinners and stressed-out evenings. Finding a meal that was both quick to prepare and actually enjoyed by everyone, from the picky toddler to my husband after a long day, felt like an impossible mission. Takeout became a frequent, and frankly, expensive, solution. Then, I stumbled upon the magic of one-pot pasta dishes. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer. This One Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta recipe, in particular, has become a true family favorite. It’s incredibly simple, ready in under 30 minutes, and the creamy, cheesy Alfredo sauce combined with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta is just pure comfort food. Even better? Clean-up is a breeze with just one pot to wash! If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution that’s both delicious and stress-free, you absolutely have to try this. Trust me, your family will thank you for it, and you’ll thank yourself for the easy cleanup!

Ingredients

The beauty of this One Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a pantry full of exotic ingredients or hours of prep work. Just a handful of everyday items, and you’re well on your way to a delicious and satisfying meal. Let’s break down each ingredient and why it’s essential to this recipe:

• 1 box (1 lb) penne pasta: Penne pasta is the star of our dish, and for good reason. Its tubular shape with ridges is perfect for capturing and holding onto creamy sauces like Alfredo, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. The sturdy texture of penne also holds up well to the one-pot cooking method, preventing it from becoming mushy.
  • Why Penne? The ridges and tubes in penne pasta are designed to maximize surface area, allowing the sauce to cling beautifully. This ensures a more flavorful and satisfying eating experience compared to smoother pasta shapes. Its robust structure also makes it less likely to overcook in a one-pot recipe.
  • Substitution Options: If you don’t have penne on hand, don’t worry! You can easily substitute with other short pasta shapes that work well with creamy sauces. Good alternatives include:
    • Rotini: The spirals of rotini also grab onto sauce effectively.
    • Fusilli (Spirals): Similar to rotini, fusilli’s twists and turns are sauce magnets.
    • Ziti: A smooth, tube-shaped pasta, ziti is another solid choice.
    • Farfalle (Bow Ties): While visually different, farfalle’s shape can also hold sauce nicely.
    • Rigatoni: Larger tubes with ridges, rigatoni is a heartier option if you prefer a chunkier pasta.
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk: Evaporated milk is the secret weapon for creating a creamy Alfredo sauce in this one-pot wonder. Unlike regular milk, evaporated milk has had about 60% of its water removed, resulting in a richer, thicker consistency. This concentrated milk adds a luxurious creaminess without being as heavy as using straight heavy cream, making for a slightly lighter yet still indulgent Alfredo.
  • The Magic of Evaporated Milk: Evaporated milk is shelf-stable and readily available, making it a pantry staple. Its lower water content compared to regular milk prevents the sauce from becoming too thin during cooking, which is crucial in a one-pot pasta recipe where we’re relying on the pasta starch to also thicken the sauce.
  • Substitution Considerations: While evaporated milk is ideal, you can consider these alternatives if needed:
    • Half-and-Half: This will provide a creamy result, though slightly less rich than evaporated milk. You might need to cook it down a bit longer to thicken the sauce.
    • Whole Milk (with a thickener): If you only have whole milk, you can use it, but you’ll likely need to thicken the sauce. A slurry of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water, whisked in towards the end of cooking, can help. You can also use a tablespoon of cream cheese stirred in at the end to add richness and thickness.
    • Heavy Cream (less water): If you use heavy cream, you may need to reduce the amount of water slightly as heavy cream is much thicker. Start with 3 cups of water instead of 4 and adjust as needed.
• 4 cups water: Water is the cooking liquid for our pasta in this one-pot method. As the pasta cooks, it absorbs the water and releases starch, which naturally helps to thicken the sauce along with the evaporated milk.
  • Water’s Role: The right amount of water is crucial for perfectly cooked pasta in a one-pot recipe. Too little water, and the pasta might not cook through and the sauce could be too thick and dry. Too much water, and the sauce could be watery and lack flavor. 4 cups is the ideal balance for 1 pound of penne in this recipe.
  • Flavor Boost (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, you can substitute 1-2 cups of the water with chicken broth or vegetable broth. This will infuse the pasta and sauce with a richer, savory taste.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Salt is a fundamental seasoning that enhances the flavors of all the ingredients in the dish. It seasons the pasta as it cooks and brings out the taste of the Alfredo sauce, chicken, and peas.
  • Salt’s Importance: Don’t underestimate the power of salt! It’s not just about making things “salty”; it’s about balancing and elevating all the other flavors in the recipe. Salt in the cooking water also helps season the pasta from the inside out.
  • Salt Type: Table salt or sea salt works perfectly fine. If using kosher salt, you may need to use slightly more as it’s less dense than table salt.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and a touch of spice that complements the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully. It provides a nice counterpoint to the richness of the sauce and adds depth of flavor.
  • Pepper’s Contribution: Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its brighter, more aromatic flavor. However, pre-ground black pepper is also perfectly acceptable for convenience.
  • Spice Level Adjustment: If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to increase the amount of black pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the black pepper for a little extra heat.
• 1 bag (12 oz) steamable frozen green peas: Frozen green peas add a pop of vibrant color, a touch of sweetness, and a boost of nutrients to our creamy pasta dish. They are quick and easy to prepare and provide a welcome textural contrast to the richness of the Alfredo.
  • Peas for Freshness: Frozen peas are a fantastic pantry staple because they are picked at their peak ripeness and frozen immediately, preserving their nutrients and flavor. They cook quickly and add a lovely freshness to the dish.
  • Vegetable Variations: If peas aren’t your favorite, or you want to switch things up, here are some other vegetable options that work wonderfully in this One Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta:
    • Frozen Broccoli Florets: Add them in the last few minutes of cooking so they remain slightly crisp-tender.
    • Frozen Spinach: Stir in a bag of frozen spinach in the last minute or two of cooking until wilted.
    • Asparagus: Cut asparagus into 1-inch pieces and add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
    • Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms in a separate pan with a little butter or olive oil until softened and browned, then stir them into the pasta along with the chicken and Alfredo sauce.
    • Sun-dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped, add a burst of intense flavor. Stir them in with the Alfredo sauce.
• 2 cups shredded or diced cooked chicken: Cooked chicken is the protein component of our dish, making it a complete and satisfying meal. Using pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken breasts, makes this recipe incredibly fast and convenient for weeknights.
  • Protein Power: Chicken provides lean protein, which is essential for satiety and muscle building. It also adds a savory flavor that complements the Alfredo sauce.
  • Chicken Options: Here are some great ways to get your cooked chicken for this recipe:
    • Rotisserie Chicken: A store-bought rotisserie chicken is a super convenient and flavorful option. Simply shred or dice the meat.
    • Leftover Cooked Chicken: Use up leftover grilled, baked, or pan-seared chicken breasts or thighs.
    • Poached Chicken: Poach chicken breasts for a tender and moist option. Poaching involves simmering chicken in water or broth until cooked through.
    • Canned Chicken (in water, drained): In a pinch, canned chicken can work, but it will be less flavorful and have a softer texture than other options. Drain it well before adding to the pasta.
• 1 jar (16 oz) Alfredo sauce: Pre-made Alfredo sauce is a major time-saver in this recipe, making it truly a quick and easy weeknight meal. Choose your favorite brand and flavor of Alfredo sauce.
  • Convenience is Key: Using a jarred Alfredo sauce eliminates the need to make a sauce from scratch, which can be time-consuming. There are many delicious jarred Alfredo sauces available in supermarkets.
  • Alfredo Sauce Choices:
    • Classic Alfredo: A traditional creamy Alfredo sauce is always a good choice.
    • Garlic Alfredo: If you love garlic, a garlic Alfredo sauce will add an extra layer of flavor.
    • Four Cheese Alfredo: For an even cheesier experience, try a four-cheese Alfredo sauce.
    • Light Alfredo: If you’re looking to lighten things up, there are lower-fat Alfredo sauce options available.
    • Homemade (for extra flavor): While jarred sauce is convenient, if you have a little extra time and want to elevate the flavor even further, you can certainly use a homemade Alfredo sauce recipe.
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty, and savory flavor to the pasta, enhancing the overall richness of the Alfredo sauce and providing a delicious cheesy finish.
  • Parmesan Power: Parmesan is a hard, aged cheese with a distinct umami flavor that complements creamy sauces perfectly. It melts beautifully and adds a lovely salty kick.
  • Cheese Variations: While parmesan is classic, you can experiment with other hard Italian cheeses:
    • Pecorino Romano: A sharper, saltier cheese than parmesan.
    • Asiago: A nutty and slightly tangy cheese.
    • Grana Padano: Similar to parmesan but slightly less intense in flavor.
    • Mozzarella (for meltiness): Adding a bit of shredded mozzarella along with the parmesan will create an extra cheesy and gooey texture.

Instructions

Making this One Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal in under 30 minutes:

1. Combine Pasta, Liquids, and Seasonings: In a large pot (at least 5 quarts, a Dutch oven works great), add the dry penne pasta, evaporated milk, and water. Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper.
2. Stir and Bring to a Boil: Stir all the ingredients together well to ensure the pasta is evenly distributed and submerged in the liquid. Place the pot over high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
3. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-high so the mixture is simmering gently but not boiling vigorously. Cook for 8 minutes, stirring frequently. Stirring is crucial to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure even cooking.
4. Microwave Peas (While Pasta Cooks): While the pasta is simmering, prepare the frozen green peas according to the package directions. Typically, this involves microwaving them in the bag for a few minutes. Once cooked, make sure to drain any excess water from the peas. Set aside.
5. Add Chicken and Alfredo Sauce: After the pasta has cooked for 8 minutes and absorbed most of the liquid, stir in the cooked chicken and the jar of Alfredo sauce. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the chicken and sauce are evenly distributed and heated through.
6. Simmer and Thicken Further: Continue to cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently. This allows the Alfredo sauce to warm up completely, meld with the pasta and chicken, and thicken slightly as it simmers. The sauce will naturally thicken as the pasta continues to release starch and absorb liquid.
7. Remove from Heat and Stir in Peas and Parmesan: Take the pot off the heat. Stir in the cooked and drained green peas and the shredded parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the parmesan cheese is completely melted and everything is well combined. The pasta will continue to thicken as it sits off the heat, creating a deliciously creamy sauce.
8. Serve and Enjoy! Let the pasta rest for a minute or two to allow the sauce to thicken further and the flavors to meld. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting and easy One Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta!

Nutrition Facts

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient quantities.)

• Servings: 8 people
• Calories per serving: Approximately 480-550 calories
  • Macronutrients (approximate per serving):
    • Protein: 30-35g
    • Carbohydrates: 50-60g
    • Fat: 20-25g

This recipe provides a balanced meal with carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the chicken, and fats from the Alfredo sauce and cheese. It also includes a serving of vegetables from the peas. For a slightly lighter version, you can use a light Alfredo sauce and increase the amount of vegetables.

Preparation Time

This recipe is designed for speed and convenience, perfect for busy weeknights.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes (primarily gathering ingredients and opening packages)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes (active cooking time on the stovetop)
• Total Time: 20 minutes (from start to finish – ready to eat in just 20 minutes!)

How to Serve

One Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance your dining experience with some delicious side dishes and garnishes:

• Classic Sides:
  • Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is the quintessential side for pasta dishes. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra Alfredo sauce on your plate.
  • Side Salad: A fresh and crisp green salad provides a lovely contrast to the richness of the pasta. A simple vinaigrette dressing works well. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or carrots to your salad.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini add extra nutrients and flavor. Roast them while the pasta is cooking for a coordinated meal.
• Garnishes for Extra Flavor and Visual Appeal:
  • Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of green color and a hint of fresh, herbaceous flavor. Sprinkle it over the pasta just before serving.
  • Extra Parmesan Cheese: Offer extra shredded or grated parmesan cheese at the table for those who like an extra cheesy kick.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a touch of heat, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over individual servings.
  • Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a sweet and aromatic flavor that complements Alfredo sauce beautifully.
  • Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the richness of the Alfredo sauce and adds a zesty touch.
• Make it a Feast:
  • Appetizer: Start with a simple appetizer like bruschetta, caprese salad, or garlic knots to create a more complete Italian-inspired meal.
  • Dessert: Follow up with a light and refreshing dessert like fruit salad, tiramisu, or panna cotta to round out the meal.

Additional Tips for Perfect One Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Here are five helpful tips to ensure your One Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta turns out perfectly every time:

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Pay close attention to the pasta cooking time. You want the pasta to be cooked al dente, meaning slightly firm to the bite. It will continue to cook slightly as you add the sauce and let it sit, so it’s better to slightly undercook it initially than to overcook it. Start checking for doneness around the 7-minute mark.
2. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables to suit your taste and preferences. Broccoli florets, spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers are all excellent additions. Adjust the cooking time based on the vegetable – heartier vegetables like broccoli should be added earlier, while leafy greens like spinach should be added at the very end.
3. Upgrade Your Chicken Flavor: While pre-cooked chicken is convenient, you can boost the flavor of your chicken by marinating it before cooking, seasoning it generously with Italian herbs, or even using grilled or pan-seared chicken for a richer taste. Cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces ensures it heats through quickly and is easy to incorporate into the pasta.
4. Spice it Up (or Tone it Down): Adjust the spice level to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or omit the black pepper entirely if you prefer a milder flavor. You can also use a spicy Alfredo sauce for a bolder flavor profile.
5. Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Stirring in fresh herbs like chopped parsley, basil, or oregano at the very end of cooking adds a burst of freshness and elevates the overall flavor of the dish. Fresh herbs are best added just before serving to retain their bright flavor and color.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions people ask about making One Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta:

1. Q: Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?
   A: While evaporated milk is highly recommended for its creaminess and thicker consistency, you can use regular milk if needed. However, the sauce might be a bit thinner and less rich. To compensate, you can try simmering the sauce for a few extra minutes to allow it to thicken slightly, or whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) at the end of cooking. You can also stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese at the end for added richness and thickness.
2. Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   A: This dish is best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture and flavor. Pasta dishes with creamy sauces can sometimes become a bit dry or the sauce can separate when reheated. If you need to prepare it in advance, you can make it a couple of hours ahead of time and keep it warm on low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or water if needed to loosen the sauce before serving. Reheating leftovers is possible, but the texture may not be quite as creamy as freshly made.
3. Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
   A: Yes, absolutely! You can substitute penne with other short pasta shapes that work well with creamy sauces, such as rotini, fusilli, ziti, farfalle, or rigatoni. You can also use long pasta like fettuccine or spaghetti, but you may need to break them in half to fit in the pot and ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta shapes may cook at slightly different rates. Refer to the pasta package directions for al dente cooking time as a general guideline.
4. Q: Can I add cheese other than parmesan?
   A: Yes, you can definitely customize the cheese blend! Adding other cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, Asiago, or a blend of Italian cheeses will create an even cheesier and more flavorful dish. Stir in shredded cheeses at the end along with the parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
5. Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
   A: While you can freeze pasta dishes, Alfredo sauce can sometimes separate or become slightly grainy upon thawing and reheating due to the dairy content. For the best quality and texture, it’s generally recommended to enjoy this One Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta fresh. If you do choose to freeze it, allow it to cool completely first, store it in an airtight freezer-safe container, and thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You might need to add a little milk or cream to restore the creamy texture after thawing and reheating.

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