Top-down view of a creamy chicken Alfredo dish on a white plate, set against a dark, black wooden texture surface.
Main Course

One-Pot Magic: Creamy Chicken Alfredo

July 20, 2024 /

When the chill sets in, nothing warms the soul like a bowl of creamy chicken Alfredo. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, offering spoonfuls of cheesy, creamy, carb-filled goodness. Imagine super juicy pieces of chicken, perfectly al dente noodles, all smothered in a rich, savory, buttery Alfredo sauce. This is weeknight dining at its finest, and it all comes together in the magic of one pot.

What is Alfredo Sauce?

Classic Alfredo sauce is a simple yet luxurious combination of butter, cheese, and pasta water. This trifecta creates a smooth, rich sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. But here, we’re giving it a modern twist. Think Olive Garden’s creamy, garlicky white sauce, but even better. It’s not traditional, but it’s incredibly satisfying and ideal for busy weeknights.

How to Make Chicken Alfredo in the Instant Pot

You might be surprised to learn that you can cook pasta right in your Instant Pot. It’s a game-changer for one-pot meals, where the pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors while releasing starches that thicken the sauce beautifully.

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Add chopped chicken, penne (or your pasta of choice), chicken stock, and garlic powder to the Instant Pot. Stir well to combine, then cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
  2. Mix the Sauce: While the Instant Pot works its magic, whisk together some cream with a tiny bit of cornstarch in a small bowl. Grate the Parmesan cheese finely.
  3. Combine and Finish: Once the timer beeps, quick release the pressure and carefully open the lid. Turn the pot to sauté medium, stir in the cream-cornstarch mix and butter. Simmer until slightly thickened, then add the Parmesan until it melts, coating every noodle in creamy perfection. Taste, season, and enjoy!
Close-up of stirring the creamy Alfredo sauce in the Instant Pot, with a focus on the creamy texture. Background is a dark, black wooden texture surface.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Ingredients

This recipe shines in its simplicity, requiring just nine ingredients:

  • Chicken: Juicy thighs are ideal, but chicken breast works too.
  • Penne: Short pasta varieties like penne are perfect for this dish. You can also use fettuccine, broken in half.
  • Chicken Stock: Enhances the overall flavor.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle depth.
  • Cream and Cornstarch: These combine to create a glossy, creamy sauce.
  • Butter: For richness.
  • Parmesan: Freshly grated for the best melt and flavor.
Ingredients for creamy chicken Alfredo laid out on a dark, black wooden texture surface. Includes chicken thighs, penne pasta, chicken stock, garlic powder, heavy cream, cornstarch, butter, and grated Parmesan.

Helpful Hints

  • Freshly Grate Your Parmesan: It melts better and tastes superior to pre-grated options.
  • Juicy Chicken: Thighs are less likely to dry out compared to breasts.
  • Perfect Pasta: Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture.

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