easy Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Jar Sauce

After a long day, I don’t want to spend hours cooking. That’s why I’ve found a quick fix: a chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce. It’s perfect for busy cooks who want a tasty, creamy dinner fast.

This recipe is my top choice for quick dinners. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a meal that tastes like it took all day.

Key Takeaways

• Quick 30-minute meal perfect for busy weeknights
• Uses convenient jarred Alfredo sauce for easy preparation
• Minimal ingredients with maximum flavor
• A versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste
• Budget-friendly dinner option for families

Why This Quick Chicken Alfredo Is Perfect for Busy Weeknights

Making a tasty chicken alfredo with jar sauce is easy and quick. It’s the perfect dinner for busy nights. It’s simple, flavorful, and easy to clean up.

Time-Saving Benefits

This chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce is ready in just 30 minutes. The key is using pre-made alfredo sauce. It makes a complex dish quick and delicious, perfect for tight schedules.

• Total preparation time: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
• Minimal ingredient list: 10 Ingredients

One-Pot Convenience

This chicken alfredo recipe is a one-pot wonder. It’s designed to be easy to make and clean up. Cooking everything in one pot saves time and makes cooking stress-free.

Budget-Friendly Meal Option

This chicken alfredo recipe is also budget-friendly. It uses affordable ingredients like jarred alfredo sauce and pasta. It’s a great way to feed a family of six without spending much, with each serving costing only a few dollars.

• Serves 6 people
• Approximately $3-4 per serving
• Uses cost-effective ingredients

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Alfredo With Jar Sauce

Making a tasty chicken Alfredo with jar sauce needs the right ingredients. These ingredients add flavor and make dinner easy. Let’s explore what makes this dish a hit with families.

Here are the main ingredients for your chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce:

• Protein: 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Pasta: 16 ounces of penne or fettuccine
• Sauce: 15 ounces of jarred Alfredo sauce
• Vegetables: 2 cups broccoli crowns (optional)
• Additional Liquids: 1/2 cup milk
• Cheese: 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Using jarred Alfredo sauce saves a lot of time. It lets you make a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant, but quicker.

Pro Tip: Choose a jarred Alfredo sauce with a few preservatives and a creamy texture.

It’s smart to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking. This makes the process smooth and enjoyable. You’ll end up with a delicious chicken Alfredo that everyone will love.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

Preparing a tasty chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce is easier with the right tools. I’ll show you the essential equipment for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Cookware

For a perfect chicken alfredo, you’ll need a few key pieces:

• Large 12-inch skillet or stock pot (ideal for one-pot meals)
• Non-stick pan for cooking chicken
• Cutting board for preparing ingredients
• Sharp chef’s knife

Measuring Tools

Accurate measurements are key for the right flavor and consistency:

• Measuring cups for liquids
• Dry measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Kitchen scale (optional but helpful)

Additional Helpful Items

These tools can make cooking more efficient:

• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Cheese grater for fresh Parmesan
• Tongs for handling chicken
• Instant-read meat thermometer

Investing in quality kitchen tools is worth it. The right equipment can turn your chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce into something amazing!

How to Choose the Best Jarred Alfredo Sauce

Choosing the right Alfredo sauce is key to a great chicken alfredo dish. I’ve tried many brands to guide you in picking the best one for your pasta.

• Look for creamy, smooth textures that coat pasta perfectly
• Avoid sauces with artificial or overly salty flavors
• Check ingredient lists for high-quality components

Based on my taste tests, here are the top Alfredo sauces:

When making your chicken alfredo, keep these tips in mind:

1. Texture: Look for a sauce that’s easy to spoon and smooth
2. Flavor: Pick a sauce with a real cheese taste
3. Consistency: Choose a sauce that sticks well to pasta

Pro tip: For those watching calories, look for lighter Alfredo sauce options. Some brands offer reduced-fat versions that taste great. The refrigerated section often has fresher, more authentic options like Buitoni.

Remember, finding the best Alfredo sauce for your chicken alfredo might take some trial and error. Don’t be afraid to try different brands until you find your perfect match!

Preparing the Chicken for Your Alfredo

Starting with high-quality chicken is key to a great chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce. I’ll guide you through the steps to make your chicken flavorful, tender, and perfectly cooked.

Cutting and Seasoning Tips

Uniform cutting is important for your chicken alfredo. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and consistent bite sizes.

• Use a sharp knife for precise cutting
• Cut chicken on a clean cutting board
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning

Proper Cooking Temperature

Cooking chicken at the right temperature is essential for both safety and flavor. For this recipe, cook chicken at medium-high heat. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for full cooking.

Testing for Doneness

Checking chicken doneness is vital. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should be white with no pink areas. Remember, overcooking can make chicken tough and dry.

• Use a digital meat thermometer.
• Check the temperature at the thickest part of the chicken
• Let chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking

Pro tip: Marinating chicken in Italian dressing can add extra flavor and help keep the meat juicy for your alfredo dish.

Step-by-Step Chicken Alfredo Recipe With Jar Sauce

Making a tasty chicken alfredo with jar sauce is simple. I’ll guide you through each step. This way, you’ll get a creamy dish that will wow your family.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut 1.5 lbs of chicken into small pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.

Now, let’s make the pasta and sauce come together. I’ll show you how to turn jar sauce into a dish fit for a restaurant.

5. In the same skillet, add 12 oz of fettuccine or penne pasta.
6. Pour in 3 cups of water or chicken broth.
7. Add the 15 oz jar of Alfredo sauce and stir well.
8. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

The last steps are key to a great chicken alfredo with jar sauce.

9. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
10. Sprinkle 1 cup of Parmesan cheese on top.
11. Cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes until cheese melts.

Pro tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of pasta water to get the right consistency.

This chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce is ready in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal!

Customizing Your Alfredo With Add-ins

Turning a simple chicken alfredo recipe into a unique dish is easy. I’ll show you creative ways to make it your own.

Vegetable Variations

Adding vegetables can make your chicken alfredo recipe special. Try these tasty options:

• Frozen mixed vegetables (quick and convenient)
• Fresh broccoli florets
• Sautéed spinach
• Sliced mushrooms
• Roasted bell peppers

Cheese Combinations

Experiment with cheese to boost your Alfredo’s taste. Here are my top picks:

Herb and Seasoning Suggestions

Spice up your chicken alfredo with these herbs and seasonings:

• Fresh basil (1-2 tablespoons, chopped)
• Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon)
• Red pepper flakes (pinch for heat)
• Italian seasoning blend
• Fresh cracked black pepper

Pro tip: Start with small amounts of extra ingredients. You can always add more, but it’s harder to take away. The goal is to enhance your dish, not overpower it.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Storing your chicken Alfredo recipe with jar sauce is key to keeping it creamy and tasty. I’ll give you some tips to keep your leftovers fresh and safe to eat.

• Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss
• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
• Store for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator
• Avoid leaving at room temperature for extended periods

When reheating chicken Alfredo, be gentle to avoid the sauce breaking. The best method involves slowly warming the dish on the stovetop. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Remove the chicken Alfredo from the refrigerator
2. Add a splash of milk to help restore creamy consistency
3. Heat on low temperature in a pot
4. Stir frequently to prevent sticking
5. Heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F

Important storage insights for your chicken Alfredo recipe:

Pro tip: If you notice any off smell or mold, discard the chicken Alfredo immediately. Always prioritize food safety when enjoying your delicious meal!

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

Understanding the nutritional profile of a chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce is key. It helps you make better dietary choices. Let’s explore the details of this tasty meal.

Caloric Content

A single serving of our chicken alfredo recipe has 833 calories. This meal gives you a lot of energy for your day. The calorie count shows the rich ingredients that make it so good.

Macronutrient Breakdown

Portion Control Tips

To enjoy your chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce and keep a balanced diet, try these tips:

• Pair a smaller portion with a large green salad
• Use a smaller plate to visually control serving size
• Save half the portion for another meal
• Add extra vegetables to increase meal volume with fewer calories

Pro tip: The high protein content makes this dish filling, so you’ll likely feel satisfied with a moderate portion.

Looking for more? Try these!

• Benihana Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
• Chicken Long Rice
• longhorn Parmesan chicken recipe
• spicy chicken tenders recipe

Conclusion

Making a tasty chicken alfredo with jar sauce is easy. It shows that quick meals can be both tasty and fulfilling. With a few simple ingredients and a little prep, you can make a dinner that rivals a restaurant.

This recipe is very flexible. It works for any number of people, from a family to just one person. You can add your twist with veggies, cheeses, or proteins. The crockpot makes the chicken tender and the flavors rich, pleasing everyone.

My advice is to keep it simple with jarred sauce but add your flair. Try new seasonings, pasta, or veggies. This recipe is a blank slate for your creativity, making dinner easy and fun.

Good cooking is about making food that brings people together. So, grab that jar of Alfredo sauce, and some chicken, and let’s create something amazing!

FAQ

How long does it take to make this chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce?

This tasty chicken alfredo is ready in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, satisfying meal.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of fettuccine?

Absolutely! You can use linguine, penne, or rotini instead of fettuccine. Just pick a pasta that holds the creamy sauce well.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with tofu, and chickpeas, or add more veggies like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms. This makes a delicious vegetarian version.

What if I don’t have Italian dressing for seasoning the chicken?

No problem! Use salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs as a substitute seasoning for your chicken.

How can I make the alfredo sauce taste more homemade?

To make jarred alfredo sauce taste homemade, add fresh garlic, white wine, Parmesan cheese, or nutmeg. These ingredients enhance the flavor.

Can I freeze leftover chicken alfredo?

I don’t recommend freezing it. The cream-based sauce can become grainy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for 2-3 days.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

Use a light alfredo sauce, and whole wheat pasta, and add more veggies. Control your portion size and use milk instead of cream to cut calories.

What are some good vegetable additions to this recipe?

Try frozen mixed veggies or fresh options like broccoli, spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. They add nutrition and color.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook pasta in the sauce with just enough liquid. Stir occasionally and remove from heat when pasta is al dente.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Definitely! Pre-cooked chicken saves time. Dice it and add it to the sauce near the end to heat through.