Okay hear me out
Pasta sides $1
1 chicken breast $1.50 – it’s just me and a toddler so adjust your chicken or pasta amount if needed
Cook your chicken in a pan, i used olive oil, and salt, pepper, onion powder, minced garlic, and some italian seasoning
In a different boiling pan, I followed the pasta sides instructions
When the chicken was done cooking, i poured the finished pasta sides, added milk, any cheese you like and allow it to cook and melt together!
Cheap chicken Alfredo and it was delicious and cheap
Quick and Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 chicken breast ($1.50)
- Olive oil
- Salt, pepper, onion powder, minced garlic, Italian seasoning (to taste)
- 1 box of pasta sides ($1)
- Milk (as needed)
- Cheese of your choice (e.g., Parmesan, mozzarella, cheddar)
Instructions:
- Prepare Chicken:
- Heat a pan over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.
- Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, onion powder, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook the chicken breast in the pan until fully cooked and golden brown on both sides. Ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.
- Once cooked, set aside to rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook Pasta Sides:
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a separate pot of water to a boil.
- Follow the instructions on the pasta sides package, cooking the pasta until it’s al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta:
- Once the chicken is sliced, return it to the pan.
- Add the cooked pasta sides to the pan with the chicken.
- Pour in a bit of milk to create a creamy consistency. Adjust the amount based on your preference.
- Mix well, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle in your choice of cheese. Feel free to use a combination of cheeses for added flavor.
- Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce has a smooth texture.
- Serve:
- Once the cheese is melted and the sauce is well-combined, your cheap and delicious chicken Alfredo pasta is ready to be served.
- Plate the dish and optionally garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
This budget-friendly recipe is not only quick and easy but also a tasty way to enjoy a comforting chicken Alfredo pasta with minimal ingredients. Adjust the quantities based on your preferences and enjoy your meal!
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta of your choice. Traditional fettuccine or penne work well, but you can experiment with different shapes and varieties.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the Chicken Alfredo Pasta? A: Yes, you can add vegetables to enhance the dish. Consider tossing in some spinach, broccoli, peas, or mushrooms. Sauté them before adding the chicken and pasta for extra flavor.
Q: How do I know if the chicken is cooked thoroughly? A: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cut into the thickest part of the chicken; it should be white with no pink, and the juices should run clear.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for a quicker version? A: Certainly! If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Simply shred or chop the chicken and add it when combining with the pasta.
Q: Is there a substitute for milk in the recipe? A: Yes, you can use alternatives like heavy cream, half-and-half, or a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk. Adjust the quantity to achieve your desired creaminess.
Q: What other seasonings can I add to enhance the flavor? A: Experiment with herbs and spices like basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Adjust the seasoning to match your taste preferences.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving. Reheat gently to prevent the sauce from separating.
Q: How can I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to maintain creaminess.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Pasta? A: It’s not recommended to freeze pasta dishes with cream-based sauces as they may separate and become grainy upon thawing. For the best results, enjoy this dish fresh or as leftovers within a few days.
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy your delicious and budget-friendly Chicken Alfredo Pasta!
