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chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce

Chicken Alfredo

Prep 20 minutes
Cook 30 minutes
Total 50 minutes
With creamy jarred Alfredo and tender chicken! So easy, so rich. A quick comfort meal in minutes!
4 stars (1 ratings)
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Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound fettuccine pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1.5 pounds boneless , skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 3 cloves garlic , minced
  • 1 jar (15-16 oz) alfredo sauce
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese , plus extra for serving
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley , chopped
  • Salt and black pepper , to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Substitution ideas:

  • Ø Swap fettuccine for penne , rotini, or gluten-free pasta
  • Ø Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat
  • Ø Try Cottage Cheese Sauce Recipe for Chicken as a healthier alternative to jarred sauce
  • Ø Replace fresh garlic with 1 teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch

Instructions

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. Drain pasta but don't rinse it – the starch helps the sauce cling better!
    Pro tip: Add 1 tablespoon of salt per gallon of water for perfectly seasoned pasta. Studies show properly salted pasta water significantly enhances the final flavor profile.
    Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
    While the pasta cooks, season chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
    Pro tip: Don't overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if necessary. This ensures proper browning rather than steaming the chicken.
    Step 3: Add Aromatics
    Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Burned garlic can make your entire dish taste bitter.
    Step 4: Combine with Sauce
    Pour the jar of alfredo sauce into the skillet with the chicken and garlic. Stir well to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer (not a boil) and cook for 2-3 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
    Chef's secret: For extra richness, stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter at this stage.
    Step 5: Integrate Pasta and Finish
    Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and integrated.
    Step 6: Garnish and Serve
    Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Add red pepper flakes if desired for a subtle heat that balances the creaminess.
    chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauceingredients

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