Discover the Joy of Home Cooking with These Simply Recipes Favorites

There’s a reason Simply Recipes has become a household name for home cooks of all skill levels. Founded on the love of homemade food, this collection of approachable yet flavorful dishes draws inspiration from global traditions while keeping things simple, fresh, and satisfying.

Whether it’s the warmth of a creamy chicken pot pie or the zing of a Thai-inspired noodle salad, Simply Recipes is all about embracing home cooking without the stress—making every meal a celebration of flavor, culture, and comfort.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for one of the most-loved dishes from Simply Recipes: Classic Chicken Alfredo Pasta.

Main Ingredients:

  • 12 oz fettuccine pasta

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/2 cup whole milk

  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Substitutions:

  • Gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta.

  • Dairy-free? Try unsweetened oat milk and vegan Parmesan.

  • Low-carb? Swap fettuccine with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine until al dente (about 10 minutes). Drain and set aside.

  2. Sauté the chicken
    In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chicken slices, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked (about 5–6 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.

  3. Make the Alfredo sauce
    In the same skillet, reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly. Once it starts to simmer, add Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth and thickened (about 3–5 minutes).

  4. Combine everything
    Add the chicken back into the skillet. Toss in the cooked pasta and stir until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.

  5. Garnish and serve
    Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan – It melts better and adds more depth of flavor than pre-shredded cheese.

  • Don’t overcook the pasta – Slightly undercooking (al dente) helps it absorb the sauce better.

  • Heat control is key – Alfredo sauce can break if overheated. Keep it on low and stir continuously.

Variations and Customizations

  • Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted broccoli.

  • Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.

  • Fusion: Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or capers for a Mediterranean twist.

Serving Suggestions

  • Presentation: Serve in shallow pasta bowls with a sprinkle of parsley and extra Parmesan on top.

  • Pair with:

    • Garlic bread or focaccia

    • A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette

    • A glass of crisp white wine (like Pinot Grigio)

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 650

  • Protein: 38g

  • Carbohydrates: 45g

  • Fats: 35g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sodium: 480mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best fresh. If storing, keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Why is my sauce grainy or separating?
This can happen if the heat is too high or cheese is added too quickly. Always keep the heat low and stir slowly.

What protein can I use instead of chicken?
Shrimp, tofu, or even leftover rotisserie chicken are great substitutes.

Closing Thoughts

Simply Recipes makes home cooking feel like second nature. With just a few fresh ingredients, a little love, and the right technique, you can transform everyday meals into memorable experiences.