Chicken Alfredo Pasta – Alfredo Penne

Chicken Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken breast and a creamy, rich Alfredo sauce that perfectly coats every bite of pasta. With a hint of garlic and a touch of parmesan, it’s a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

How To Make Chicken Alfredo Pasta The Easy Way?

Follow the recipe exactly as given below in the recipe card. But before that see the important notes before starting.

Important Tips Before Making Chicken Alfredo and Pasta

• For more juicy and flavors, use chicken thighs instead of breast
• If you are not a fan of garlic and you feel this recipe too garlicky then substitute garlic for a few teaspoons of onion powder.
• You can use almond milk instead of regular milk
• Substitute with dried parsley instead of fresh parsley.
• I am using cooked penne boiled in water, to give it extra flavor boil the penne in chicken stock or broth with an extra little salt. (Just by doing this, your kids will enjoy the noddles all alone)
• You can add mushrooms and broccoli when you are cooking the chicken pieces
• Add some cooked asparagus into the sauce.
• Use cheddar cheese or mozzarella instead of parmesan

Tips For The Chicken Alfredo Pasta Sauce

• Add more milk to make more sauce if it’s too little for your family.
• If the sauce becomes too thick adding more milk is an easy fix
• If the sauce is too thin as per your preference, add cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
• If you feel the sauce is too flour-y, then add a touch of lemon.

Variations of Chicken Alfredo Pasta

While the classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta is always a winner, there are many ways to get creative with this dish:

• Mushroom Chicken Alfredo: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy flavor that complements the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce.
• Spicy Chicken Alfredo: For those who love a little heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne into the sauce. A drizzle of sriracha can also add a zesty kick.
• Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli: Toss in steamed broccoli for added texture and a healthier twist on the traditional recipe. The mild, slightly bitter flavor of the broccoli pairs beautifully with the rich Alfredo sauce.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo: If you want to take the garlic flavor up a notch, make the sauce with butter and roasted garlic. This adds a sweet, nutty flavor to the overall dish.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Alfredo: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for a burst of tangy, savory goodness.

What To Do With The Leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, pack them in an airtight container and store in the fridge. When you are ready to eat the next day, I recommend adding more parmesan cheese and milk before microwaving. (This will make it creamier)

How to Store Chicken Alfredo Pasta

If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine that happening!), here’s how to store and reheat the dish:

• Storing: Store the Chicken Alfredo Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the sauce may thicken as it cools, but it will loosen up when reheated.
• Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta to bring back the creaminess. Gently heat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each, to ensure even heating.

How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Chicken Alfredo Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, straight from the pan to the plate. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Garnish: Add freshly grated Parmesan, cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of parsley or basil on top before serving.
• Pairing: Pair this rich dish with a simple side salad, like a Caesar salad, to balance out the richness. Garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables complements the dish beautifully.
• Wine Pairing: Serve with a glass of crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to cut through the creamy texture of the Alfredo sauce.

Recipe FAQs:

• Can I make Chicken Alfredo Pasta ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and combine everything.
• Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream? Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version of the sauce. However, the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy than if you use heavy cream.
• What can I use if I don’t have Parmesan cheese? If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano cheese or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar, though the flavor will differ slightly.
• How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from separating? Make sure to keep the heat low when making the sauce and avoid overcooking. Gradually add the cream and Parmesan, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Can I make this dish gluten-free? Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free pasta, and you can enjoy the same creamy, delicious dish.

Still Hungry! Try These Other Delicious Chicken Recipes:

• Chicken Nuggets
• Grilled Chicken Kabobs with Vegetables
• Crockpot Sweet and Sour Chicken
• Easy Pineapple Chicken

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that blends creamy sauce, tender chicken, and pasta into one hearty meal. Whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or experimenting with variations, this dish offers endless possibilities to customize it to your taste. With a few tips and tricks under your belt, you’ll be able to make the perfect Chicken Alfredo Pasta every time. Don’t forget to pair it with a side salad or garlic bread and enjoy it with family or friends – it’s sure to be a hit!