25-Minute One-Pot Chicken Alfredo | Creamy & Easy Recipe

Silky, creamy, and perfectly seasoned—this One-Pot Chicken Alfredo comes together in just 25 minutes with minimal cleanup. Tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious Parmesan sauce all simmer in one pan for the ultimate weeknight comfort meal.

When I need a cozy dinner that feels special but takes almost no effort, I make this One-Pot Chicken Alfredo. It’s everything you love about creamy pasta but simplified into a single pan. The chicken sears until golden, the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, and by the time you’re done, you’ve got rich, cheesy Alfredo perfection—no draining, no separate pots, and no stress.

I started making this dish on my busiest weeknights when I didn’t have time for complicated recipes but still wanted something satisfying and high in protein. The secret is cooking the pasta right in the same pan as the chicken and cream—it absorbs every bit of flavor and creates a silky sauce that clings beautifully to each strand.

This recipe also happens to be one of the best protein-packed comfort meals you can make. If you love easy, balanced recipes like my 25 High-Protein Snacks for Muscle Gain, this one deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.

For tools, I swear by my TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs (Set of 3)—they make flipping chicken and tossing pasta effortless. If you don’t have a reliable food scale yet, the Escali Primo Digital Food Scale is the one I trust for precise ingredient portions.

There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of garlic, butter, and Parmesan coming together on the stove. It smells like a warm hug waiting for you after a long day. And since this dish is made in just one pot, cleanup is as easy as dinner itself.

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Ingredients & Prep for One-Pot Chicken Alfredo

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 ½ cups milk
8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
½ cup heavy cream
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Substitutions

Use whole-grain or chickpea pasta for extra protein and fiber.
Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a lighter option.
Swap heavy cream with half-and-half to reduce fat while keeping it creamy.
Add steamed broccoli or spinach for color and nutrients.

Tools You’ll Need

Lightyear Silicone Basting & Pastry Brush Set (2-Pack) for brushing oil or butter evenly.
TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs (Set of 3) for tossing pasta and turning chicken effortlessly.
Escali Primo Digital Food Scale for precise ingredient measurements.
NileHome Stainless Steel Whisk Set (3-Pack) for smooth sauce blending.

Recipe Card (Tasty Recipes Plugin)

Before starting, whisk together the broth, milk, and cream in a bowl for a smooth base. This helps prevent lumps and gives your Alfredo that signature silky texture. When cooking the pasta in the sauce, stir frequently to keep it from sticking and to help the sauce thicken evenly.

This dish pairs beautifully with a light side like the 5-Minute Winter Citrus Kale Salad. It adds freshness and a touch of color that balances the rich, creamy sauce.

Creamy one-pot chicken Alfredo pasta topped with Parmesan and fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pot Chicken Alfredo

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season lightly with salt and black pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden on the outside and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—garlic cooks fast and should only be lightly golden.

Step 3: Add the Liquids

Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Whisk gently to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked fettuccine directly into the liquid. Stir to coat the pasta evenly. Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for about 10–12 minutes, stirring every 2–3 minutes to prevent sticking. The pasta will cook through and the sauce will start to thicken naturally.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Chicken

Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, lower the heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing it gently in the sauce until well coated. Taste and adjust with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and an optional extra dusting of Parmesan before serving. The sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Pro Tip:
If your sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth and stir gently to loosen it. For an even creamier finish, whisk in an extra tablespoon of Parmesan just before serving.

Quick Add-On Ideas:

Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for a boost of color and nutrients.
Sprinkle with red pepper flakes or lemon zest for a bright finish.
Pair with Cottage Cheese Ranch Dip and fresh veggies for a balanced plate.

This is also a great recipe for meal prep. It reheats beautifully and stays creamy when warmed with a touch of milk or broth.

One-pot chicken Alfredo pasta with broccoli and bacon in creamy Parmesan sauce

Nutrition & Benefits of One-Pot Chicken Alfredo

One-Pot Chicken Alfredo isn’t just about comfort—it’s a well-balanced meal that delivers protein, carbs, and healthy fats in one dish. The combination of lean chicken, milk, and Parmesan gives it a strong nutritional profile while keeping the flavor rich and satisfying.

Key Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: ~490 kcal
Protein: 38 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fat: 18 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sodium: 620 mg

Values are approximate and can vary depending on the ingredients used.

Why It’s Good for You

High Protein for Recovery
Each serving packs nearly 40 grams of protein, making it ideal for anyone focused on muscle repair or post-workout recovery. The chicken provides lean, complete protein, while the milk and Parmesan add a smaller boost of slow-digesting casein protein.

Smart Carbs for Energy
Cooking the pasta in the same pot allows it to soak up the nutrients and flavor from the chicken broth, turning simple carbs into a satisfying, energy-sustaining base.

Balanced Fats for Flavor and Satiety
A touch of olive oil and cream gives the Alfredo its signature richness while helping you feel full longer. You can also swap the cream for Greek yogurt or light cream if you prefer a leaner version.

Everyday Nutrient Boost
The sauce is rich in calcium from the milk and cheese, while parsley adds a little dose of antioxidants and freshness. Pairing this dish with a veggie side like the 5-Ingredient Roasted Veggie Quinoa Bowls or a quick 5-Minute Winter Citrus Kale Salad makes it a complete meal.

Allergen Note:
Contains dairy and gluten. For a gluten-free version, use chickpea or rice pasta, and for dairy-free, swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast and milk for unsweetened almond milk.

Health Disclaimer:
Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary or medical advice.

This One-Pot Chicken Alfredo proves that comfort food can still fit into a balanced eating plan. It’s protein-packed, satisfying, and made with simple, everyday ingredients that nourish as much as they please the taste buds.

Serving Suggestions & FAQs for One-Pot Chicken Alfredo

This One-Pot Chicken Alfredo is versatile and easy to serve for any occasion—from a quick solo dinner to a cozy family meal. Its creamy sauce and tender chicken make it the perfect centerpiece for a balanced, protein-rich menu.

Serving Ideas

Add Greens: Serve with a side of sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or a crisp salad like the 5-Minute Winter Citrus Kale Salad to brighten up the plate.
Light Side Dishes: Pair with Cottage Cheese Flatbread Chips or Simple Cottage Cheese Flatbread (Air Fryer) for a balanced crunch.
Meal Prep Friendly: Divide leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to bring the sauce back to life.
Family-Style Option: Top the pasta with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley just before serving for a fresh, restaurant-style finish.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes. Simply skip the searing step and stir in shredded or diced cooked chicken once the pasta is nearly done. Allow it to heat through in the sauce for 2–3 minutes.

Q2: How can I make this Alfredo lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan slightly. You can also add a handful of spinach or steamed cauliflower to boost volume and nutrients without extra calories.

Q3: Will the sauce thicken as it cools?
Yes. The sauce naturally thickens as it rests. If it becomes too thick when reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it while stirring gently.

Q4: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Fettuccine is traditional, but penne, rotini, or spaghetti all work well. Choose whole-wheat or protein pasta for added nutrition.

Q5: How long can leftovers last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat on the stovetop with a bit of added liquid to restore the creamy consistency.

For a full Italian-inspired dinner, try pairing this dish with the 5-Step Creamy Chicken Enchiladas or the One-Pot Spaghetti with Ground Beef. Both recipes are quick, satisfying, and made for busy nights.

Sophie Bennett’s Closing:
Make It Yours.

Creamy One-Pot Chicken Alfredo (Ready in 25 Minutes)

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