One-Pot Chicken Alfredo
A rich, creamy, and comforting one-pot Chicken Alfredo recipe combining tender chicken, luscious Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a quick, hassle-free, and delicious meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a satisfying dinner with minimal prep and cleanup.
- Author: Maria
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free (when using gluten-free pasta)
Protein
- 2 boneless chicken breasts or thighs
Pasta
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
Aromatics & Fats
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
Liquids
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups chicken broth
Cheese & Seasoning
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Prepare and Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat and sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside to lock in flavor and juices.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it to avoid bitterness. This forms the aromatic base of the Alfredo sauce.
- Add Liquids and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add uncooked fettuccine pasta, ensuring it is mostly submerged in the liquid to cook evenly and absorb the sauce flavors.
- Simmer Until Pasta Is Tender: Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until al dente and most liquid has been absorbed, about 10-12 minutes. The sauce will thicken as the pasta cooks.
- Stir in Parmesan and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the pot, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over everything and stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and delicious.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and more vibrant flavor.
- Do not overcook the pasta; aim for al dente for ideal texture.
- Cook garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- Simmer cream and broth gently to prevent sauce separation.
- If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: one-pot, chicken alfredo, creamy pasta, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, fettuccine, garlic, parmesan