Easy One-Pan Chicken Alfredo

Chicken Alfredo has been a beloved Italian dish for decades. The creamy sauce is rich in flavor and pairs perfectly with tender chicken and pasta. If you're looking to make this classic recipe at home, this version offers simplicity yet deliciousness. With minimal prep time required, it’s perfect for busy weeknight meals. This one-pan wonder can be served with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
8 oz fettuccine pasta
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 tbsp butter
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well after cooking, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Meanwhile, melt half the butter over medium heat in a wide skillet or sauté pan that is oven-safe. Once melted, add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter along with garlic powder and oregano. Stir in the reserved pasta water to prevent sticking and keep the sauce smooth.
Gradually add the heavy cream while stirring continuously until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference. Let this simmer for a few minutes so that flavors meld together harmoniously.
Add back in the cooked chicken pieces, tossing them gently into the sauce until they are well coated. If you like, add some extra Parmesan at this point too.
Once everything is nicely combined and heated through, transfer your dish to an oven-safe pan (the same one used earlier). Place it directly in the preheated oven for another 5 minutes if needed to ensure that all elements reach safe temperatures. Alternatively, serve immediately while still warm.
Top with freshly grated Parmesan and optional fresh parsley before serving hot. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Alfredo!

Tips & Variations

If you want to add more vegetables into the mix, consider tossing in some sliced mushrooms or broccoli florets during the final stages of cooking. You could also experiment with different types of pasta such as linguine or farfalle depending on personal preference.

For a gluten-free version, ensure that your pasta is certified gluten-free and avoid using any seasoned breadcrumb crusts if serving over the top. Be mindful when choosing sauces or seasonings that do not contain gluten.

Nutritional Information

Total Calories: Approximate 500 calories per serving (this may vary based on ingredients used)
Fat Content: Approximately 30g of fat per serving
Carbohydrates: Around 40g carbs per serving
Proteins: About 25g protein per serving

Presentation Ideas

The simplicity and quick assembly of this dish make it ideal for casual family dinners, potlucks, or romantic dates. Serve it with a side salad to balance out the richness from both the chicken and pasta.

To elevate presentation further, serve on individual plates rather than large platters. Garnish generously with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo is not only a delightful culinary delight but also incredibly versatile. Whether you're looking for a comforting weeknight meal or want to impress guests, this easy recipe delivers both satisfaction and flavor without requiring too much effort. Get creative with your additions and enjoy each bite!