Chicken Pasta Alfredo With Peas

I absolutely love making Chicken Pasta Alfredo with Peas for a comforting meal that satisfies everyone at the table. The creamy Alfredo sauce, combined with tender chicken and vibrant peas, creates a rich and delicious dish that feels so special yet is quite simple to prepare. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite, and I enjoy how the flavors meld together beautifully. Plus, it's perfect for busy weeknights when I want something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-27T17:29:34.951Z

When I first tried making Chicken Pasta Alfredo with Peas, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The key is to start by cooking the chicken in a hot pan, allowing it to develop a lovely golden crust. This not only enhances the flavor but also locks in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy and tender.

This dish is all about timing—when to add the peas to the pasta and sauce so they remain bright and vibrant. The combination of fresh peas and creamy Alfredo is really delightful, and it’s something my family requests regularly!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, dreamy Alfredo sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.
Juicy chicken pieces for a hearty bite in every forkful.
Bright peas add a pop of color and a subtle sweetness.

Understanding the Alfredo Sauce

The key to a creamy and rich Alfredo sauce lies in the quality of the ingredients you use. Heavy cream is essential for achieving that luxurious texture, but make sure it's not a low-fat version; otherwise, the sauce may not thicken properly. As you bring it to a simmer, you’ll notice it beginning to bubble gently, thickening and becoming glossy. This indicates it's ready for the cheese, which should ideally be freshly grated Parmesan to ensure a smoother melt.

When adding the Parmesan cheese, do so gradually. This step is crucial because it helps avoid clumping, ensuring a silky sauce. Stir continuously until the cheese fully incorporates and the sauce takes on a creamy consistency. If you find the sauce too thick, you can adjust the texture by adding a splash of pasta cooking water, which also can enhance the flavor.

Perfecting Your Chicken

When cooking the chicken, using a skillet over medium-high heat is vital for developing a nice golden crust. Ensure that your chicken pieces are fairly uniform in size, around 1-inch cubes, for even cooking. You can check for doneness by cutting into a piece; it should be opaque and juices should run clear. Too high a heat can lead to burnt edges before the chicken is fully cooked, so monitor the process closely.

If you prefer a bit more flavor in your chicken, consider marinating it in a mix of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking. This not only infuses flavor but also helps keep the chicken juicy. If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated and used in salads or wraps the next day.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Chicken Pasta Alfredo with Peas is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored as leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of cream or a bit of chicken broth can help restore the sauce's creaminess if it thickens excessively during storage.

For a delightful variation, try incorporating sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the dish for added texture and nutrition. You can also serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Experimenting with different pasta types, like fettuccine or rigatoni, can also change the overall experience while keeping the core recipe intact.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients below to create a delicious Chicken Pasta Alfredo with Peas.

Ingredients

300g penne pasta
2 chicken breasts, diced
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you are ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make Chicken Pasta Alfredo with Peas.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and frozen peas to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce and the peas are heated through.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately while it's warm and creamy.

Your Chicken Pasta Alfredo with Peas is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the Alfredo sauce, or substituting asparagus for the peas for a seasonal twist.

Variations and Customizations

While this recipe highlights the delightful combination of chicken and peas, you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences. For a vegetarian option, substituting the chicken with grilled tofu or adding a medley of seasonal vegetables can provide a satisfying alternative. Additionally, switching out the peas for broccoli or asparagus adds not just flavor but also vibrant color to the dish.

Spicing up your Alfredo sauce can also create a new dimension of flavor. A pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes can elevate the dish, providing warmth and a hint of heat. If you’re feeling adventurous, adding sun-dried tomatoes or artichokes in the mixing stage will introduce a tangy twist.

Key Techniques for Successful Pasta Dishes

Cooking the pasta until al dente is essential when preparing dishes that will be combined with sauce. This ensures that the pasta retains a slight firmness and doesn’t become mushy after it’s mixed with the sauce. Always taste it a minute or two before the package suggests; you want that perfect bite that holds up well in the dish.

Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water can be your best friend when mixing with sauces, as it helps emulsify and brings the sauce and pasta together. The starch helps the sauce adhere better, giving you a beautifully cohesive dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use fettuccine, spaghetti, or any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just reheat and combine with cooked pasta.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, using gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this recipe!

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Consider adding broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.