This One Pot Cheesy Chicken Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food, ready in just 30 minutes. Creamy, velvety Alfredo sauce coats tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, while a generous layer of melted cheese adds a gooey, indulgent finish. Every bite is a harmony of rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it a weeknight dinner hero.
With only 5 minutes of prep, this dish is as easy as it is delicious. The savory garlic, buttery Parmesan, and hints of herbs create a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen. Plus, it’s all made in one pot—less cleanup, more time to savor every cheesy, creamy forkful. Perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something truly comforting.
Ingredients for One Pot Cheesy Chicken Alfredo
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil (or substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor)
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or use a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2-3 cloves, or use ½ teaspoon garlic powder as a substitute)
- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended for better control of saltiness)
- 1½ cups heavy cream (or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 2 cups penne pasta, uncooked (or use any short pasta like fusilli or farfalle)
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil (optional, for extra herb flavor)
- 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese (pre-grated works, but freshly grated melts better)
- ¾ cup shredded Mozzarella cheese (or use provolone for a sharper taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the oil: Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken: Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken starts to lightly brown.
- Add garlic: Stir in 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and sauté for another minute, until fragrant.
- Combine liquids and pasta: Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, 1½ cups of heavy cream, 2 cups of uncooked penne pasta, and ¼ teaspoon of dried basil. Mix well to combine.
- Bring to a boil: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the skillet and reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Add cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 2 cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and ¾ cup of shredded Mozzarella cheese until fully melted and combined.
- Serve: Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired. Enjoy!
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
Elevate your One Pot Cheesy Chicken Alfredo with a drizzle of truffle oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. For a fresh twist, top with chopped parsley or sun-dried tomatoes. If you’re feeling indulgent, add crispy bacon bits or grilled shrimp for extra flavor and texture.
Serve It Right: Presentation and Sides
This dish shines as a standalone meal, but pairing it with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread makes it even more satisfying. For a lighter option, serve with steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprig of fresh basil for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
Make It Last: Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy, then warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the pasta dry and the sauce separate.
Switch It Up: Recipe Variations
Try swapping penne pasta for fettuccine or rotini for a different texture. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Vegetarian? Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a hearty, meat-free alternative.
Quick Tips for Busy Cooks
Save time by prepping your chicken and garlic ahead of time. Use a large, deep skillet to avoid spills and ensure even cooking. If you’re short on time, opt for pre-grated Parmesan and pre-diced chicken to streamline the process without sacrificing flavor.
One Pot Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts diced into bite sized pieces
- salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 cups Chicken Broth
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 2 cups penne pasta uncooked
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¾ cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Add oil to large skillet and heat over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and season with salt and pepper and Italian seasoning.
- Saute for 2-3 minutes or until chicken starts to lightly brown. Add in garlic and saute for another minute.
- Pour in chicken broth, cream, pasta and basil and mix to combine. Bring to a boil, then cover pan and reduce to a simmer. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is fully cooked.
- Remove from heat and add Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and fully mixed in.
- Serve warm.