Chicken Alfredo with Peas

by

Looking for a quick and satisfying dinner option that’s sure to please the whole family? Look no further than this delightful Chicken Alfredo with Peas recipe. With tender penne pasta enveloped in a creamy Alfredo sauce, succulent shreds of rotisserie chicken, and vibrant peas for a burst of freshness, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s ready in just over 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet effortless.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound of uncooked penne pasta
  • 4 cups of hot water
  • 12 ounces of evaporated milk
  • 15 ounces of Alfredo pasta sauce (one jar)
  • 4 ounces of cream cheese
  • 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup of frozen peas
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

Directions:

  1. Begin by preparing your pasta. In a large Dutch oven, combine the evaporated milk, hot water, and penne pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
  2. Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-high and cook for approximately 7 minutes, stirring frequently. It’s important not to drain the pasta at this stage.
  3. Next, lower the heat to medium and add the shredded rotisserie chicken, cream cheese, and Alfredo sauce to the pot. Stir well to combine, allowing the cream cheese to melt and the sauce to become smooth. This should take around 3 minutes.
  4. Once the sauce is smooth, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted. Season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
  5. Cover the pot and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  6. After resting, uncover the pot and add the frozen peas, stirring them into the pasta and sauce mixture.
  7. Serve your Chicken Alfredo with Peas hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the creamy goodness and comforting flavors!

Nutritional Information:

  • Calories: 485
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Protein: 30g

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Garnish each serving of Chicken Alfredo with Peas with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness.
  2. Pair the dish with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to round out the meal and add extra texture and flavor.
  3. For a touch of heat, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or freshly ground black pepper to individual servings according to taste.
  4. Serve the Chicken Alfredo with Peas alongside a glass of your favorite white wine or a refreshing lemonade for a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

Storage Tips:

  1. Store any leftovers of Chicken Alfredo with Peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  2. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to the pasta to help restore its creamy consistency.
  3. Alternatively, you can freeze the leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Allow the dish to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  4. To maintain optimal flavor and texture, consider storing the peas separately from the pasta and adding them in when reheating to prevent them from becoming mushy.
  5. Before serving reheated leftovers, ensure that the pasta is heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Variations:

  1. Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, omit the shredded rotisserie chicken and add extra vegetables such as sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or spinach to the Alfredo sauce for added texture and flavor.
  2. Seafood Twist: Incorporate seafood into the dish by adding cooked shrimp, scallops, or crab meat along with the shredded rotisserie chicken for a surf-and-turf twist on the classic Chicken Alfredo.
  3. Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, stir in a tablespoon of chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy kick that complements the creamy richness of the dish.
  4. Herbaceous Flavor: Infuse the Alfredo sauce with additional herbs such as fresh thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a burst of aromatic flavor. You can also sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the finished dish for a vibrant herbal accent.
  5. Healthier Option: Substitute whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for the penne pasta to increase the dish’s fiber content. Additionally, use low-fat cream cheese and skim milk instead of full-fat dairy products to reduce the overall calorie and fat content while still maintaining a creamy texture.
  6. Pesto Twist: For a refreshing twist on traditional Alfredo sauce, stir in a few tablespoons of homemade or store-bought pesto sauce to the dish. The combination of creamy Alfredo and aromatic basil pesto creates a vibrant and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender pasta and peas.

FAQs :

  1. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen peas in this recipe? Yes, you can substitute fresh peas for frozen peas. Simply blanch the fresh peas in boiling water for a couple of minutes until they’re tender, then drain and add them to the dish as directed.
  2. Is it necessary to use evaporated milk, or can I use regular milk instead? Evaporated milk adds richness to the Alfredo sauce, but you can substitute it with an equal amount of regular milk if needed. However, the sauce may not be as creamy.
  3. Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce instead of store-bought? Absolutely! Feel free to use homemade Alfredo sauce if you prefer. Just make sure it’s a similar consistency to the store-bought version, and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
  4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free? To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure that all other ingredients, such as the Alfredo sauce and cream cheese, are certified gluten-free.
  5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
  6. What can I serve with Chicken Alfredo with Peas? This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including garlic bread, Caesar salad, steamed vegetables, or a crusty baguette.

With minimal prep and cooking time, this Chicken Alfredo with Peas recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you crave a hearty meal without the hassle. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this creamy and comforting dish, and savor every bite of its irresistible flavors. Whether you’re a pasta lover or simply in need of some culinary comfort, this recipe is sure to hit the spot every time.