Easy Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Jar Sauce: A Quick & Delicious Weeknight Meal
Are you craving a creamy, dreamy Chicken Alfredo but short on time? This recipe uses jarred Alfredo sauce to make a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights, this simplified version doesn't compromise on flavor. Let's dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose quality chicken for the best flavor.
- 1 (24-ounce) jar Alfredo sauce: Your favorite brand will do! Look for one with a creamy texture.
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta: Or any long pasta you prefer.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For extra richness and flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season generously!
- Optional garnishes: Fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, extra Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- While the pasta is cooking, cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until fully cooked through and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Combine and Simmer:
- Stir in the jarred Alfredo sauce and Parmesan cheese. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the Alfredo sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for the Best Easy Chicken Alfredo:
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Cook until it's just cooked through.
- Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic has a much brighter and more intense flavor than garlic powder.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. You can also add other seasonings, such as Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes.
- Add vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a satisfying and delicious dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! You can use any long pasta, such as spaghetti, linguine, or tagliatelle.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat them together with the cooked pasta just before serving.
Q: How can I make this healthier?
A: Use a light Alfredo sauce, add more vegetables, and use whole wheat pasta.
This easy chicken Alfredo recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a perfect weeknight meal for families and busy individuals alike. Enjoy!
