Easy Creamy Chicken & Smoked Sausage Alfredo Skillet

When it comes to quick and delicious weeknight dinners, nothing beats the ease and flavor of a one-pan meal. The Creamy Chicken & Smoked Sausage Alfredo Skillet brings together tender chicken, savory smoked sausage, and creamy Alfredo sauce, all in one skillet. This dish is not only satisfying but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy nights or when you’re entertaining guests. Let’s dive into this recipe that combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the heartiness of chicken and sausage for a dish that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Skillet Dinner

This creamy skillet meal is the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. With a combination of proteins, cheese, and pasta, it checks all the boxes for a delicious and filling dinner. Plus, the use of a single skillet means fewer dishes to wash—who doesn’t appreciate that?

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of this Creamy Chicken & Smoked Sausage Alfredo Skillet is its simplicity. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant. The step-by-step process is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks alike.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for meal prep options, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. You can easily double the ingredients, portion them out, and have ready-to-eat meals for the week. Simply reheat and enjoy, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.

A Flavor Explosion

With the rich flavors of smoked sausage and creamy cheeses, every bite is a burst of savory goodness. The addition of spices and seasonings elevates the dish, ensuring it’s never bland. This recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

To create this delightful Creamy Chicken & Smoked Sausage Alfredo Skillet, gather the following ingredients:

For the Main Dish

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced: The star protein that adds a juicy element to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the chicken and sausage, providing healthy fats.
• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced: Adds a robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• 1 small onion, chopped: Offers sweetness and depth to the overall flavor profile.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the dish with aromatic and savory notes.

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the dish with authentic Italian flavors.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that complements the sausage.
• ½ teaspoon salt: To taste, ensuring all the flavors are balanced.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a touch of heat and enhances the overall flavor.

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream: The base of the creamy sauce, provides richness and depth.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds flavor and helps to create a silky sauce.
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a creamy texture.
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and enhances the creaminess of the sauce.

Pasta

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta, cooked: The perfect vehicle for the creamy sauce, adding heartiness to the dish.

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped: A touch of color and freshness to brighten the dish.

Directions: How to Prepare Your Skillet Dinner

Step 1: Cook the Chicken and Sausage

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced chicken breasts. Sauté the chicken until browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-7 minutes. It’s essential to cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink in the center. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Sausage and Veggies

Using the same skillet, add the sliced smoked sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the sausage is browned and the onions are softened. The flavors from the sausage will infuse the onions and garlic, creating a savory base for the dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

Next, stir in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. These spices will enhance the dish’s flavor profile, making it rich and aromatic. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. The combination of these cheeses creates a luscious, velvety texture that coats the pasta beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked fettuccine pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and deliciousness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is combined and heated through, it’s time to serve! Garnish your Creamy Chicken & Smoked Sausage Alfredo Skillet with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it hot, and watch as everyone digs in for seconds!

Nutritional Information

This Creamy Chicken & Smoked Sausage Alfredo Skillet is not only delicious but also provides a hearty meal. Each serving is approximately 650 kcal, making it a satisfying option for dinner.

Macronutrients (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: 650
• Fat: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 40g

Tips for the Best Skillet Alfredo

To ensure your dish turns out perfectly, consider these tips:

• Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for high-quality smoked sausage to enhance the flavor of the dish. The better the sausage, the richer the taste of the Alfredo.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken juicy and tender, avoid overcooking. It’s better to slightly undercook it since it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk until you reach the desired consistency.
• Add Vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, consider throwing in some vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli when you sauté the onions and sausage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Different Pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta can work just as well.

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just be aware that the sauce may thicken upon cooling, so add a little chicken broth when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.

Is It Possible to Make This Dish Dairy-Free?

Certainly! Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut milk or cashew cream. Use dairy-free cheese options to replace the mozzarella and parmesan.

Can I Freeze This Recipe?

While it’s not ideal to freeze pasta dishes with cream-based sauces, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sausage mixture separately from the pasta. Reheat the mixture and add freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

What Sides Pair Well with This Skillet Dinner?

This creamy skillet dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Related Recipes to Try

If you’re enjoying this Creamy Chicken & Smoked Sausage Alfredo Skillet, check out these other delicious recipes for your next meal:

• Crockpot Pierogi Casserole with Kielbasa
• One Pot Sausage and Rice
• Cheesy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta

Conclusion

The Creamy Chicken & Smoked Sausage Alfredo Skillet is a delightful and satisfying meal that you can whip up in no time. With its rich flavors, creamy sauce, and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your household. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish promises to impress and satisfy. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and get ready to enjoy a truly delicious one-pan dinner!