If you’re craving a comforting, creamy meal that doesn’t require a ton of fuss, this Chicken Alfredo with Jar Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. It brilliantly combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and luscious Alfredo sauce straight from the jar, making weeknight dinners a total breeze. Plus, the addition of sun-dried tomatoes and melty cheeses elevates this classic dish into something truly special, all while saving you precious time in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Alfredo with Jar Sauce Recipe keeps things simple but relies on a handful of well-chosen ingredients that each play a crucial role. From bold Italian dressing that seasons the chicken beautifully to the creamy jarred Alfredo sauce that ties everything together, each element enhances the rich flavors and delightful textures of the dish.
- Italian dressing (2 tablespoons): Adds a tangy, herbaceous flair that helps tenderize and season the chicken perfectly.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (3 large, cubed): The hearty protein centerpiece that soaks up all the flavors.
- Dry penne pasta (16 ounces or 1 box): A sturdy pasta shape that holds the sauce beautifully for every bite.
- Alfredo sauce (24 ounces or 1 jar): Creamy, indulgent, and ready-made to speed up the cooking process without sacrificing taste.
- Dried oregano (1 tablespoon): Adds a warm, earthy note that complements the rich sauce.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance every layer of flavor.
- Freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (½ cup): Provides gooey, melty goodness on top.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Adds a sharp, nutty finish that is signature to Alfredo dishes.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (1½ cups, optional): Introduce a sweet and tangy pop that brightens the creamy richness.
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Gives a fresh, vibrant touch and beautiful color to the finished plate.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo with Jar Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Your Chicken
Start by heating a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat and adding your cubed chicken with the Italian dressing. This combination not only seasons the chicken but also keeps it juicy and flavorful. Don’t forget to sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper to boost the taste. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and just cooked through — usually around five minutes depending on the cube size. If you don’t have a skillet this large, a stockpot will work just fine too.
Step 2: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Next, add the dry penne pasta right into the skillet along with the entire jar of Alfredo sauce. To ensure the pasta cooks properly, fill that empty sauce jar with water and pour it into the skillet; if you’re using a stockpot, add about two cups of water instead. Stir in the dried oregano along with more salt and pepper to taste. This step brings all the flavors together and starts the magic of the pasta absorbing that creamy goodness.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat so it simmers. Cover with a lid and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta reaches your desired tenderness. This method is fantastic because it’s all happening in one pot, saving you cleanup while delivering perfectly cooked pasta infused with sauce.
Step 4: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes
If you’re including those sun-dried tomatoes, fold them into the skillet now. Their concentrated sweetness and chewy texture add a lovely contrast to the silky sauce and tender chicken, making every bite more interesting.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Now comes the irresistible part: sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the top followed by the shredded mozzarella. Don’t stir the cheese in just yet. Cover and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts to gooey perfection. For an extra melty, golden finish, place the skillet under the broiler for about 4 minutes — just watch closely so nothing burns.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley all over your creamy masterpiece. This simple garnish gives a burst of color and freshness that elevates the whole dish visually and flavor-wise. Serve it straight from the skillet and dig in!
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo with Jar Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
The chopped parsley is essential because it cuts through the richness with its fresh, slightly peppery notes, but you can also add a little extra grated Parmesan or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a subtle kick. These simple garnishes transform a humble weeknight dinner into a plate that’s classy enough to serve for guests.
Side Dishes
Since this Chicken Alfredo with Jar Sauce Recipe is creamy and filling, pairing it with light sides like a bright green salad, roasted asparagus, or steamed broccoli works beautifully. These sides provide a fresh crunch and nutritional balance to complement the indulgent flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Alfredo right in individual shallow bowls topped with extra cheese and herbs. You could also spoon the chicken Alfredo over roasted spaghetti squash for a low-carb version or pile it onto garlic bread slices for a shareable appetizer feel. The flexibility of this dish makes it fantastic for customizing based on your mood or occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, it’s easy to save leftovers. Store your Chicken Alfredo with Jar Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen after a day, making leftovers a tasty second helping.
Freezing
While Alfredo sauce can sometimes change texture when frozen, this recipe still freezes well if you want to keep portions for later. Use a freezer-safe container or bag, and it will last for up to 2 months. To maintain the best texture, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy again, reheat your leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Alternatively, the microwave works too — just heat in short bursts, stirring in between to keep things creamy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is great for holding onto the sauce, other sturdy pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle will work beautifully in this Chicken Alfredo with Jar Sauce Recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by using a dairy-free Alfredo sauce or making your own with plant-based milk and vegan cheese, you can enjoy this dish without sacrificing creaminess. Just be sure to check the jar ingredients or opt for homemade sauce alternatives.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of raw?
You can, but be mindful that pre-cooked chicken will not absorb the Italian dressing flavors in the same way. If using cooked chicken, add it after the pasta simmers to avoid drying it out and adjust seasoning as needed.
How spicy is this dish?
It’s mild and creamy by nature, making it great for all ages. If you like a bit of heat, adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce during cooking or as a garnish can give it a nice kick.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just make sure your skillet or pot is large enough to accommodate the ingredients, or cook in batches. The proportions work well doubled, and it remains easy and quick to prepare.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo with Jar Sauce Recipe is a shining example of how convenience and flavor can come together effortlessly. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a surefire way to deliver a rich, satisfying meal without hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and watch this creamy, cheesy delight become a fast favorite in your dinner rotation!
Print
Chicken Alfredo with Jar Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Chicken Alfredo recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with penne pasta and creamy Alfredo sauce for a quick and delicious meal. Enhanced with Italian dressing, sun-dried tomatoes, and a cheesy topping of mozzarella and Parmesan, this one-pot dish is perfect for a satisfying dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
Sauce & Dressing
- 2 tablespoons Italian dressing (not creamy)
- 24 ounces Alfredo sauce (1 jar or about 3 cups if homemade)
Pasta
- 16 ounces dry penne pasta (1 box)
Seasonings & Herbs
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Cheeses
- ½ cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Optional
- 1½ cups sun-dried tomatoes
Instructions
- Sauté Chicken: Heat the Italian dressing in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes depending on thickness.
- Add Pasta and Sauce: Pour in the dry penne pasta and the entire jar of Alfredo sauce. Fill the empty Alfredo jar with water and add it to the skillet to help cook the pasta; if using a stockpot, add 2 cups of water instead. Season with additional salt, pepper, and dried oregano, then lightly stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until the pasta reaches your preferred tenderness.
- Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes if using, adding a rich burst of flavor and texture to the dish.
- Add Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the mixture, followed by the shredded mozzarella. Do not stir.
- Melt Cheese: Continue cooking covered for 2-3 minutes until the cheese fully melts. For an extra melty and slightly golden top, place the skillet under the broiler for about 4 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness, and serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy and comforting chicken Alfredo!
Notes
- If you don’t have a large skillet, a stockpot works perfectly for this recipe.
- The sun-dried tomatoes are optional but add a nice depth of flavor and a pop of color.
- Using jarred Alfredo sauce keeps this recipe quick, but homemade Alfredo can be substituted with the same quantity.
- Broiling at the end is optional but recommended for a bubbly, golden cheese topping.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference during cooking.
