Craving a comforting, creamy chicken alfredo but short on time? This recipe uses Classico jarred Alfredo sauce as a shortcut, delivering restaurant-quality results without the fuss. It's perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
What You'll Need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (24 ounce) jar Classico Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 1 pound fettuccine or other pasta of your choice
Instructions:
-
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
-
Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Combine Sauce and Chicken: Add the Classico Alfredo sauce to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir to combine. If you're using heavy cream, add it now and stir until well incorporated. This step adds extra creaminess and richness – it’s optional but highly recommended!
-
Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the 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.
-
Stir in Parmesan: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
-
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the Alfredo sauce.
-
Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses common questions people have about making chicken Alfredo, specifically using Classico jarred sauce.
Can I use other types of pasta besides fettuccine?
Absolutely! Fettuccine is a classic choice for Alfredo, but you can use other pasta shapes like linguine, spaghetti, or even penne. Choose a pasta that you enjoy!
What if I don't have heavy cream?
The heavy cream is optional but adds extra richness and creaminess to the sauce. If you don't have it, the sauce will still be delicious! You could try adding a tablespoon or two of milk instead for a slightly thinner consistency.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli. Add them to the skillet with the chicken or add them during the simmering stage.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, you could use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of heavy cream or use a lighter alternative like half-and-half, and add more vegetables for extra nutrients. You can also use leaner chicken breast.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving for optimal taste and texture.
Tips for the Best Chicken Alfredo
- Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or garlic powder.
- For an extra touch of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade chicken alfredo! Let me know in the comments how yours turned out!
