The Secret to the Best Easy Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Jar Sauce
One of those dishes that everyone enjoys is chicken Alfredo; it’s creamy, dreamy, and simply fantastic. Let’s face it, though, creating Alfredo from scratch can often seem like more work than it’s worth. What if you could use jar sauce and a few easy techniques to create a decadent dish of chicken Alfredo? We’re specifically addressing that today.
Everyone has experienced hunger, exhaustion, and a desire for a substantial meal that doesn’t require a lot of work.
However, canned sauces can occasionally be disappointing, making us question whether the dinner was worthwhile.
However, canned sauces can occasionally be disappointing, making us question whether the dinner was worthwhile.
We know how to transform that jar sauce from “meh” to delicious, so don’t worry. Come on, let’s cook.
Why Alfredo Jar Sauce Is the Perfect Shortcut
Jarred Alfredo sauce gets a bad rap, but here’s the thing—it’s a game-changer.
Pre-made sauces save time and guarantee creamy consistency without endless stirring.
Plus, they’re versatile enough to handle a little customization.
With the right mix-ins, you’ll have restaurant-quality chicken Alfredo on your plate in no time.
What You’ll Need to Make This Easy Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Getting this dish just right starts with the right ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table, so let’s break it down:
- Fettuccine (8 oz): The wide, flat shape holds onto that luscious Alfredo sauce like a dream.
- Chicken Breast (1 lb): Tender bites of protein that turn this dish into a meal.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Keeps the chicken juicy and adds a touch of richness.
- Jarred Alfredo Sauce (15 oz): Creamy and convenient, it’s the star of the show.
- Garlic (2 cloves): Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor that jarred sauce often lacks.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup): Because a little extra cheese never hurt anyone.
- Lemon Zest and Juice: The secret ingredient that brightens the dish and makes it stand out.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, because seasoning is everything.
- Fresh Parsley: Optional, but it adds a lovely pop of color.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Chicken Alfredo
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 5–7 minutes, or until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
4. Build the Sauce
Pour the jarred Alfredo sauce into the skillet. Stir in the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Add the lemon zest and juice, stirring well to combine.
5. Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the skillet, then toss in the cooked pasta. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and stir to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Alfredo to serving plates. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Easy Chicken Alfredo Recipe With Jar Sauce
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Easy Chicken Alfredo Recipe With Jar Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This easy Chicken Alfredo recipe with jar sauce is a creamy, comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners. With tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and fettuccine, it’s ready in under 30 minutes. The twist? Adding a splash of lemon juice and zest gives the sauce a bright, zesty flavor that sets it apart.
Equipment Needed:
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (15 oz/425g) Alfredo sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain. - Prepare the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Sauté Garlic:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds, or until fragrant. - Combine Sauce Ingredients:
Pour the jar of Alfredo sauce into the skillet. Add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to thin the sauce to your desired consistency. Stir in the lemon zest and juice to give the sauce a fresh, tangy flavor. - Combine Pasta and Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat everything in the sauce. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and stir gently to combine. - Serve:
Transfer to serving plates. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh finish. Serve warm.
Notes
The addition of lemon zest and juice adds a refreshing brightness to the Alfredo sauce, making this dish feel lighter and more balanced. This unique twist sets it apart from other jar sauce recipes.
- For added texture and color, stir in 1 cup of steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or chicken broth to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minute
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
Ingredient Swaps and Add-Ons
Making chicken Alfredo your own is easy when you know how to tweak the ingredients. Here are some helpful ideas to suit your pantry, preferences, or dietary needs:
Pasta Alternatives
Classic Swaps
If you’re out of fettuccine, penne, spaghetti, or linguine are fantastic substitutes. Each shape interacts differently with the sauce, giving a slightly varied experience.
Low-Carb Options
Use zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash for a lighter, low-carb version of this dish.
Gluten-Free Choices
Gluten-free pasta varieties, such as those made from chickpeas or rice, work perfectly while maintaining a satisfying texture.
Alfredo Chicken Substitutes
Rotisserie Chicken
Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds a smoky flavor. Shred or cube it before tossing it into the sauce.
Shrimp
For a seafood twist, substitute chicken with shrimp. Sauté shrimp in olive oil for 2–3 minutes per side until pink, then mix into the Alfredo.
Turkey or Ham
Leftover turkey or diced ham provides a unique spin and pairs wonderfully with Alfredo sauce.
Vegetarian Proteins
For a meatless option, add cubes of baked tofu or a handful of crispy chickpeas.
Vegetable Boost
Broccoli
Steam broccoli florets and toss them in for a pop of green and added nutrients.
Mushrooms
Sauté mushrooms until golden and tender to add an earthy, meaty texture.
Spinach
Stir fresh spinach into the hot Alfredo sauce, letting it wilt naturally for a silky texture and added vitamins.
Bell Peppers
Sliced and sautéed bell peppers bring a sweet crunch to the dish.
Asparagus
Cut asparagus into bite-sized pieces and blanch them briefly before adding for a spring-like freshness.
Cheese Enhancements
Cheese Combinations
Add a handful of shredded mozzarella or provolone for extra creaminess.
Blue Cheese
Crumble a little blue cheese into the sauce for a tangy twist.
Goat Cheese
Stir in soft goat cheese to make the sauce irresistibly creamy.
Flavor Boosters
Spices
Add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth or red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
Herbs
Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano work wonders for elevating flavor.
White Wine
Deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the jarred Alfredo sauce for depth and richness.
Creative Add-Ons
Bacon or Pancetta
Crispy bits of bacon or pancetta offer a salty, savory crunch.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Chopped sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to balance the creaminess.
Artichoke Hearts
For a Mediterranean-inspired twist, fold in quartered artichoke hearts.
Croutons
Sprinkle buttery, garlic-seasoned croutons on top for a fun, crunchy garnish.
FAQs On Chicken Alfredo Made With Jar Sauce
Yes! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for a healthier twist.
Add a tablespoon of cream cheese or let the sauce simmer longer to reduce.
While jarred minced garlic can work, fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or chicken broth.
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Alfredo sauce is also gluten-free.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce.
The Final Bite
There you have it: a straightforward, delicious, and completely fulfilling recipe for chicken Alfredo that elevates jar sauce to a remarkable level. This recipe will become a weeknight favorite whether you’re serving it to your family or to yourself.
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Because life is too short to waste it on dull meals. See you in the kitchen!