Easy Chicken Alfredo Recipe with Jar Sauce

If you’re a student looking for a delicious, creamy meal that feels fancy but takes almost no effort, this chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce is your new go-to. Forget expensive takeout or complicated dishes this version is affordable, quick, and made with simple ingredients you’ll actually have on hand. Whether you’re cooking in a dorm kitchen or a small apartment, this recipe proves you don’t need to be a chef to eat well on a budget.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super affordable: Uses budget-friendly ingredients like pasta, jarred sauce, and chicken.
• Minimal prep: Ready in under 25 minutes with almost zero chopping.
• Dorm-friendly: No oven or fancy tools needed just a pan and a stove.
• Filling and satisfying: Creamy, protein-packed, and way more rewarding than instant noodles.
• Versatile: Easy to customize with veggies or spices you already have.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this student-friendly chicken alfredo:

• 1 jar (15 oz) Alfredo sauce (store-brand works great!)
• 2 chicken breasts (or 1 can of cooked chicken)
• 8 oz (about 2 cups) of pasta (fettuccine, penne, or whatever you have)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: garlic powder, frozen spinach, grated parmesan

Equipment:

• 1 pot for pasta
• 1 frying pan for chicken
• Fork, spatula, knife (basic stuff!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions (usually 8–10 minutes).
3. Drain and set aside.

Pro Tip: If you’re super short on time, use microwaveable pasta pouches.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. While the pasta cooks, heat oil or butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked. If using canned chicken, skip this step and just warm it up in the pan.

Step 3: Heat the Alfredo Sauce

1. Reduce the pan to low heat.
2. Add the jar of Alfredo sauce to the cooked chicken.
3. Stir until heated through (about 3–4 minutes).

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Toss the drained pasta into the sauce-chicken mixture.
2. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
3. Optional: Top with parmesan or toss in some frozen spinach for extra flavor.

Cheap & Tasty Variations

• Veggie boost: Add steamed broccoli or peas.
• Spicy kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes.
• Extra creamy: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese.
• Protein swap: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or tofu.
• One-pot trick: Cook pasta first, then use the same pot for sauce and chicken to save on dishes.

Storage & Reheat Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Microwave: Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep the sauce creamy.
• Freezer: Not ideal, but possible if sealed well. Reheat slowly with extra sauce.

Budget Breakdown (Approx.)

Ingredient	Cost (USD)
Pasta (8 oz)	$0.80
Jar Alfredo sauce	$2.00
Chicken (2 breasts or canned)	$3.00
Olive oil/spices	$0.30
Total	$6.10

Serves 2–3: Just about $2 per serving!

Internal Tips for Student Cooks

• Buy in bulk: Pasta and jar sauce are cheaper when bought in multipacks.
• Use leftovers: This dish is perfect for using up last night’s grilled chicken.
• Add greens: Frozen spinach or kale mixes in easily and adds nutrients.

Questions fréquentes

Conclusion

There you have it: a super simple, affordable, and student-approved chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce. It’s everything you want after a long day of classes: fast, creamy, and comforting without breaking your budget.

Try it tonight and save it to your weekly rotation! This chicken alfredo recipe with jar sauce is exactly what every student needs in their meal arsenal.

Love easy student meals? Before diving into this creamy Chicken Alfredo recipe with jar sauce, check out some other student favorites:

Want more slow cooker wins? Try this Honey Mustard Chicken for an affordable dorm-friendly dinner.

Our classic Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe adds a veggie twist to the Alfredo you love.

Trying to eat healthy in college? The 30-30-30 Method for Weight Loss is going viral for a reason.

Learn more about how to choose the best Alfredo sauce from Bon Appétit.