Looking for a hearty yet healthy meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your nutritional goals? Look no further! This Macro Friendly Chicken Alfredo Red Pepper Pasta is not only delicious but also easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein from the chicken and a burst of flavor from the roasted red pepper, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a wholesome meal ready in no time.
Macro Friendly: This dish is designed to be high in protein and lower in carbs, perfect for those keeping an eye on their macros.
Flavor Packed: The combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, roasted red peppers, and fresh basil creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins.
One-Pot Wonder: Less mess means more time for you to enjoy your delicious meal!

What to Buy

12 oz penne pasta
16.9 oz prepared Alfredo sauce (Trader Joe’s brand preferred)
1 roasted red bell pepper, chopped (about 1 cup)
16 oz precooked boneless skinless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces (I like the pre-cooked, roasted Trader Joe’s chicken)
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt & pepper to taste
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese

Equipment Breakdown

Large Pot: For boiling the pasta and mixing everything together.
Colander: To drain the pasta.
Wooden Spoon: For stirring the ingredients seamlessly.
Knife & Cutting Board: To chop the roasted red pepper and basil.

How to Prepare Macro Friendly Chicken Alfredo Red Pepper Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the 12 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Drain and Set Aside

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and set it aside. Make sure to reserve a bit of the pasta water in case you need to thin out the sauce later.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In the same pot, add the 16.9 oz of prepared Alfredo sauce, the chopped roasted red bell pepper, and the precooked chicken pieces. Heat over medium heat, stirring gently until everything is warmed through and combined.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Once the chicken and sauce mixture is heated, add the drained pasta to the pot. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 5: Season and Garnish

Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving. This will add a refreshing touch that brightens up the dish.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Spoon the pasta into bowls and sprinkle with the 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and watch it disappear!

Seasonal Spins

Spring: Add fresh asparagus or peas for a pop of green.
Summer: Toss in some cherry tomatoes for added sweetness.
Fall: Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Winter: Incorporate roasted butternut squash for a comforting twist.

Cook’s Notes

This recipe is incredibly forgiving; feel free to adjust the amount of chicken or vegetables based on your preferences.
If you prefer homemade Alfredo sauce, you can make your own using butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
For a lighter version, consider using a lower-fat Alfredo sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Save It for Later

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, it stores beautifully! Just prepare the pasta and sauce as directed, then let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Common Qs About Macro Friendly Chicken Alfredo Red Pepper Pasta

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta shape, such as whole wheat or gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. Just divide it into individual portions and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for quick and easy lunches or dinners.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while heating it. You can also top the dish with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of precooked?

Yes! If you prefer using fresh chicken, simply cook it in the pot before adding the sauce and peppers. Make sure it’s fully cooked before proceeding with the rest of the recipe.

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it and share it with your friends and family! They’ll love the creamy goodness of this Macro Friendly Chicken Alfredo Red Pepper Pasta just as much as you do. Tag us on social media when you make it—your culinary creations deserve to be celebrated!

This Macro Friendly Chicken Alfredo Red Pepper Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to savor every bite!