If you adore the rich, silky indulgence of Italian comfort food but need a quick, foolproof way to whip it up, this Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Store-Bought Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe is just the ticket. It’s the perfect blend of tender chicken, luscious Alfredo sauce, and fresh fragrant basil for a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home without the fuss of crafting your own sauce from scratch. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply giving yourself a delicious weeknight treat, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of convenience and gourmet flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many small clear glass bowls on a white marbled surface, each holding different ingredients. On the right, there are two bundles of long yellow pasta tied with white strings. Above the pasta are a bowl of shredded pale yellow cheese and a small bowl of chopped green herbs. In the center, there is a bowl with small green broccoli pieces and above it a bowl with pinkish raw chicken pieces. On the left side, there is a large bowl with creamy beige sauce. Surrounding it are smaller bowls holding various spices and seasonings in colors like red, black, white, and light yellow, along with a bowl of chopped white onion. The overall look is clean and organized, ready for cooking. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When you look at this ingredient list, don’t be fooled by its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that creamy texture, vibrant aroma, and comforting depth of flavor that makes this dish so memorable. Plus, they’re all easy to find and budget-friendly, making this an accessible meal anytime you crave something special.

2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into chunks: Provides tender, protein-packed bites that soak up all the delicious sauce.
Pinch of salt and ground black pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
2 (16 ounce) packages spaghetti: The classic pasta base that perfectly carries the sauce and chicken.
4 (15 ounce) jars Alfredo sauce: The star shortcut here – creamy, ready-made sauce that saves time but still tastes rich and satisfying.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Adds a fragrant herbaceous note balancing the creaminess.
2 teaspoons garlic powder: Deepens the savory profile without overwhelming the dish.
2 tablespoons chopped onion: Offers subtle sweetness and texture in the sauce.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil: Infuses an irresistible freshness and color that makes the dish pop.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
2 teaspoons ground black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and complexity.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor while keeping the sauce smooth.
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Just a touch of heat to make this Alfredo truly crave-worthy and memorable.
1 ½ cups shredded Parmesan cheese (Optional): Melts into the sauce for extra richness and that authentic cheesy finish.
2 cups chopped broccoli (Optional): Adds vibrant green color, nutrition, and a lovely fresh crunch complementing the creamy sauce.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Store-Bought Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Cook the Chicken

First things first, season your chicken chunks lightly with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink and juicy juices run clear — about 7 to 10 minutes. This creates the perfect, tender protein foundation that will soak up all those luscious flavors later on.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and toss in your spaghetti. Cook it until tender but still firm to the bite, about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so the noodles don’t stick together. Beautifully cooked pasta is crucial since it’s the canvas for your creamy Alfredo masterpiece.

Step 3: Combine Sauce and Seasonings

Once your chicken is cooked through, add all four jars of Alfredo sauce to the skillet. Now comes the magic touch: season your sauce with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, chopped onion, fresh basil, salt, pepper, onion powder, and a little cayenne for warmth. Give it a stir and let it gently simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt completely, thickening the sauce to a dreamily creamy consistency that clings lovingly to each noodle.

Step 4: Steam the Broccoli (Optional)

For a pop of color and a nutritious bite, steam your chopped broccoli just until tender—about 2 to 6 minutes. Then fold it gently into your sauce, creating a harmonious melody of flavors and textures. This step doesn’t just elevate your dish’s appearance but also adds a fresh crunch that complements the richness beautifully.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Drain the pasta and scoop portions into serving bowls. Spoon your glorious, creamy chicken Alfredo sauce generously over the top, making sure every bite is loaded with that perfect blend of sauce, chicken, and vibrant basil. Your Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Store-Bought Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe is now ready to dazzle and delight!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Store-Bought Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe

Two bowls of creamy pasta with broccoli and chicken pieces sit side by side on a white marbled surface. Each bowl holds spaghetti noodles coated in a light, creamy sauce speckled with green herbs. Chunky white chicken pieces and small broccoli florets are scattered evenly throughout the pasta layers, adding texture and color. The left bowl is white with an orange inside, and the right bowl is white with a green inside, both showing a generous mix of sauce and ingredients piled in a soft heap. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves and a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese elevate the look and flavor, making the dish feel extra special and inviting. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a few red pepper flakes can add beautiful visual contrast and a little kick.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the Alfredo’s richness. Warm, crusty garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables also complement the creamy pasta, adding texture and variety to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the Alfredo over creamy polenta or alongside roasted cauliflower for a low-carb option. Plating individual portions in shallow bowls with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh basil chiffonade turns this cozy dish into a restaurant-worthy presentation that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Store-Bought Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it a great option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

This dish freezes well but note that the texture of the pasta may slightly soften upon thawing. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers slowly over low heat to keep the sauce creamy and prevent it from separating. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much to restore that signature silky texture you love in the Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Store-Bought Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, fettuccine, penne, or even linguine work wonderfully well with Alfredo sauce. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it okay to skip the broccoli?

Yes! The broccoli is optional but adds a nice crunch and nutrition. If you’re not a fan or don’t have any on hand, the dish will still taste amazing without it.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free twist, look for Alfredo sauces made with plant-based ingredients and swap Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative. Keep in mind the flavor and texture might differ slightly.

How spicy is the cayenne pepper in this dish?

The cayenne is just a subtle addition to bring warmth and depth, not overpower the creamy sauce. You can always adjust the amount or omit it entirely based on your spice tolerance.

What’s the best brand of store-bought Alfredo sauce to use?

I love using Classico’s sun-dried tomato and spicy Alfredo flavors to add extra layers of flavor, but any high-quality jarred sauce you like will work beautifully in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Store-Bought Sauce and Fresh Basil Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your cooking repertoire. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and ease, bringing restaurant-inspired flavors to your table without hours in the kitchen. So grab those simple ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to enjoy a rich, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. You’ll be amazed at how effortless and delicious this dish can be!