Dinner Made Simple: How to Pre-Make Chicken Alfredo for a Quick and Delicious Weeknight Meal

Meal prepping is a lifesaver for busy individuals looking to save time and eat healthier meals. One of the most popular dishes to make ahead is chicken alfredo. This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser and can be easily customized to your liking. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to make chicken alfredo ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious and convenient meal ready to enjoy whenever you need it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to cool.

Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until softened.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
4. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine the Chicken and Sauce

1. Once the chicken has cooled, shred it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Add the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir to combine.

Store the Chicken Alfredo

1. Let the chicken alfredo cool completely.
2. Transfer the chicken alfredo to an airtight container.
3. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating the Chicken Alfredo

From the Refrigerator

1. Remove the chicken alfredo from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes.
2. Heat the chicken alfredo in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

From the Freezer

1. Remove the chicken alfredo from the freezer and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Heat the chicken alfredo in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Tips for Meal Prepping Chicken Alfredo

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Cook the chicken breasts thoroughly to prevent undercooked chicken.
• Let the sauce simmer for at least 5 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.
• Shred the chicken into small pieces for even distribution in the sauce.
• Store the chicken alfredo in airtight containers to prevent spoilage.
• Reheat the chicken alfredo gently to avoid overcooking and drying out the sauce.

Variations

• Add your favorite vegetables to the sauce, such as broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms.
• Use different cheeses to create a unique flavor profile.
• Serve the chicken alfredo over your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti.

Meal Ideas

• Serve the chicken alfredo with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
• Add a green salad or roasted vegetables to make a complete meal.
• Pack the chicken alfredo in a lunchbox for a quick and easy meal on the go.

Questions You May Have

Q: How long will chicken alfredo last in the refrigerator?
A: Chicken alfredo can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze chicken alfredo?
A: Yes, chicken alfredo can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: What is the best way to reheat chicken alfredo?
A: The best way to reheat chicken alfredo is to heat it gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.