There are days when even thinking about making dinner feels like too much. We’ve all been there—standing in front of the fridge, tired, hungry, and trying to magically summon something delicious out of thin air. That’s exactly where this easy chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce comes in, saving the evening (and your sanity).
It’s cozy, creamy, and made with pantry staples—aka dinner MVPs. Plus, it’s got just enough of that “wow” factor (hello, gooey cheese and sun-dried tomatoes!) to make it feel like something extra without any extra work. Whether you’ve got picky eaters or just need a no-fuss meal after a long day, this one’s a keeper.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Jar Sauce
Let’s be honest: “Alfredo” can sound a little fancy, right? But this recipe flips that script in the best way. It’s not only easy—it’s a kind of genius. The jarred sauce keeps things simple, the chicken and pasta make it hearty, and the added touches (like Italian dressing and melty mozzarella) bring major flavor without extra effort.
Bonus: you only need one pan (yes, even with dry pasta!), so cleanup is a breeze. More time for wine, laundry, or flopping onto the couch—your choice.
Ingredients You’ll Need (And Why You Need Them)
- Italian dressing (not creamy): For a zippy, flavorful start that seasons the chicken as it cooks.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into cubes for quicker cooking and easier bites.
- Dry penne pasta: No need to pre-cook—toss it into the pan.
- Jarred Alfredo sauce (or homemade if you’re feelin’ fancy): The creamy heart of the dish.
- Dried oregano: Adds an earthy Italian flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: Everything needs a good balance of seasoning.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: We all secretly live for that melty, stretchy cheese layer.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty bite that’s… chef’s kiss.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (optional but recommended): Sweet, tangy pops of flavor that take this dish up a notch.
- Chopped fresh parsley: For a fresh, herby finish, the dish looks gorgeous.
Psst: The full ingredient list with measurements is below the recipe card—so don’t stress.
Let’s Make It: Step-by-Step
Sauté the Chicken:
Grab your biggest skillet (or a stockpot if that’s what you’ve got) and heat up the Italian dressing over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken, season it with salt and pepper, and cook until it’s just golden and cooked through—about 5 minutes.
Add Pasta + Sauce:
Stir in the dry pasta and pour in that whole jar of Alfredo sauce. Then, fill the empty jar with water and add it to the pan. If you’re using a stockpot, just use about 2 cups of water. Sprinkle in the oregano and more salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer Time:
Bring the whole thing to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover it up, and let it cook for about 15 minutes—or until your pasta is perfectly tender.
Mix in the Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
This is your flavor booster moment! Stir them in and let them mingle with all that creamy, herby goodness.
Top with Cheese:
Now for the best part—scatter the Parmesan and mozzarella over the top. Don’t stir! Just let it sit and melt for a few minutes. Want that bubbly, golden cheese effect? Pop the skillet under the broiler for 4 minutes. Worth it.
Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle chopped parsley on top, serve it up hot, and enjoy every creamy bite.
Katherine’s Tip Jar
- Out of penne? Use any short pasta you have—rigatoni, rotini, or even elbow macaroni- and it will work fine.
- Don’t love sun-dried tomatoes? No biggie—leave them out or swap in fresh cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach.
- Want a bit more kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the chicken.
- Double the cheese, double the love. There’s no judgment here.
A Quick Story from My Kitchen
This dish became my weeknight hero during one of those everything-is-chaos weeks: work deadlines, school projects, and zero groceries. I found a lonely jar of Alfredo sauce, some chicken in the freezer, and a box of pasta. With a little help from my flavor friends (Italian dressing and dried herbs), dinner was not only saved—it was devoured.
Now, it’s on regular rotation at our house. Even my picky middle kid asks for seconds (and trust me, that never happens with anything green).
FAQs
Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
Absolutely! Try cooked shrimp, leftover rotisserie chicken, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
How should I store leftovers?
Pop them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yep! Any pasta that cooks in about 10-12 minutes will work here. Just keep an eye on the texture.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just trying to get something warm and satisfying on the table fast, this easy chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce is the meal that checks all the boxes. Creamy, cheesy, and ready in under 30 minutes—everything you need right when needed.
And hey, if dinner ends with clean plates and no complaints? That’s a win in any kitchen.
