Looking for a comforting and delicious meal that is simple to prepare and sure to impress? Our one-pot Chicken Alfredo recipe is packed with flavor and made with ease, making it the perfect choice for both busy weeknights and casual dinner parties. With just one pot, you’ll minimize cleanup while still delivering a satisfying and creamy dish that everyone will love.
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Growing up, Sunday dinners were a grand affair in our family, and my mom’s creamy pasta dishes consistently took the spotlight. Over the years, I’ve adapted her timeless recipe into this simplified, one-pot wonder that never fails to bring back fond family memories. Cooking it now in my own kitchen, I relish the opportunity to share this heritage with my kids, creating new traditions and flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Our Chicken Alfredo recipe is not only incredibly flavorful but also efficient, saving you time without sacrificing taste. It’s perfect for kitchen novices and seasoned home cooks alike. By cooking everything in a single pot, you’ll appreciate the convenience and focus on enjoying your meal rather than worrying about a stack of dishes. Additionally, it’s easily customizable, allowing you to adjust ingredients to suit dietary preferences or simply experiment with new flavors.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Choose fresh, high-quality Chicken Breast for the best flavor. You can substitute heavy cream with a lighter option if desired, or swap parmesan with asiago for a gourmet twist. When selecting garlic, opt for fresh cloves rather than pre-minced to enhance the aroma and taste.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Season chicken breast with salt and pepper. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
Step 2
Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as this can affect the overall flavor.
Step 3
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to combine flavors and prevent sticking.
Step 4
Add pasta directly to the pot and stir to ensure all noodles are submerged in liquid. Cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally.
Step 5
Once pasta is cooked, reduce heat to low and stir in parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Return the chicken to the pot and mix until fully coated. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Storage Options
To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to two months, thawing in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
Customize your Chicken Alfredo by incorporating seasonal vegetables, such as spinach or broccoli, for added nutrition. Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a protein twist. For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or experiment with herbs like basil or oregano to elevate the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is versatile, pairing wonderfully with a crisp green salad and crusty garlic bread for an inviting family meal. Perfect for potlucks or gatherings, serve it as part of a buffet with assorted toppings so guests can personalize their plates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chicken alfredo ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the sauce creamy, reheat it gently and add a little extra cream or milk if needed.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe? While fettuccine is traditional in alfredo dishes, you can use any pasta you prefer. Short shapes like penne or rigatoni are excellent alternatives that absorb the sauce well.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe? Yes, swap out the heavy cream with a non-dairy cream alternative, like coconut milk or almond milk, and use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan for a vegan-friendly version.
Frequently Asked Questions
One-Pot Creamy Garlic Mushroom Penne: A Cozy Family Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta can substitute with rigatoni
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin recommended
- 1 lb mushrooms sliced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth low sodium
- 1 cup heavy cream room temperature
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms, cooking until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add the penne pasta and reduce to a simmer.
- Cook the pasta, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and the cheese has melted.
- Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
