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Canned Chicken Alfredo (Easy Dinner) - Creamy, Comforting, and Quick

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Pasta: Fettuccine is classic, but penne, rotini, or spaghetti work.
  • Canned chicken: 2 (10–12 oz) cans, drained and flaked.
  • Butter: 4 tablespoons (salted or unsalted).
  • Garlic: 3–4 cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch).
  • Heavy cream: 1 1/2 cups (half-and-half works; whole milk for lighter sauce).
  • Parmesan cheese: 1 to 1 1/4 cups, freshly grated.
  • Chicken broth: 1/2 cup (optional, for thinning and extra flavor).
  • Lemon: 1 small, for zest and a squeeze of juice.
  • Salt and black pepper: To taste.
  • Red pepper flakes: Optional, for a gentle kick.
  • Parsley: Fresh, chopped, for garnish.
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon, for sautéing the chicken and garlic.

Method
 

  1. Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook your pasta until just al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Prep the chicken: Drain canned chicken well. Use a fork to break up large pieces so it mixes evenly with the sauce.
  3. Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. When the butter melts, add minced garlic. Cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant, not browned.
  4. Warm the chicken: Add the flaked canned chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat in the garlicky butter. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook 1–2 minutes to heat through.
  5. Build the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan until smooth. If it’s too thick, splash in chicken broth or reserved pasta water a little at a time.
  6. Brighten it up: Add a small pinch of lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Add red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat.
  7. Toss with pasta: Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet. Toss until every strand is glossy and coated. If needed, loosen with more pasta water for a silky finish.
  8. Finish and serve: Top with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve hot with a simple salad or steamed broccoli.