If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, tasty hug, then you absolutely must try this Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Pearl Onions. It’s a luscious pasta dish that perfectly balances velvety Alfredo sauce, tender baked chicken, and those sweet, silky pearl onions for a luxurious bite every single time. The creamy texture and comforting flavors make this recipe a knockout for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you make it, this Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Pearl Onions will quickly become your go-to comfort meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started on this Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Pearl Onions is easier than you think because the ingredients are simple and thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each element plays a crucial role in creating a creamy, rich dish that feels indulgent but never overwhelming.
- Pasta (16oz): Fettuccini is classic, but rigatoni or your favorite pasta shape works wonderfully to hold the sauce.
- Frozen pearl onions (14oz): These add a naturally sweet and creamy bite when cooked just right.
- Frozen broccoli (10-12oz): Packed with nutrients and a wonderful pop of color, broccoli complements the dish beautifully.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 ½ pounds): The protein star of the show, baked to juicy perfection.
- 2% milk (1 ½ cups): Adds creaminess without being too heavy.
- Heavy whipping cream (2 cups): Essential for that rich, velvety Alfredo sauce texture.
- Chicken broth (2/3 cup): Boosts savory depth, especially in the creamy pearl onion mixture.
- Butter (7 Tbsp): Provides that comforting richness throughout the dish.
- Flour (7 Tbsp): Acts as a thickening agent for smooth, luscious sauces.
- Parmesan cheese (1 5/6 cups): The star cheese that makes every bite cheesy and flavorful.
- Minced garlic (3 tsp): Brings an aromatic depth to the sauce.
- Nutmeg (¼ tsp): A subtle warmth that enhances the creamy components.
- Light brown sugar (2 Tbsp): Balances savory notes with a hint of sweetness in the chicken seasoning.
- Italian seasoning (2 tsp): Herbaceous notes adding complexity to the chicken and sauce.
- Smoked paprika (2 tsp): Adds a smoky undertone to the chicken.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Reinforces the garlic flavor in the chicken bake.
- Dried minced onion or onion powder (1 tsp): Enhances savory depth.
- Chopped parsley (4 Tbsp): Adds fresh, green brightness and color.
- Mayonnaise (1/3 cup): Helps keep the baked chicken juicy and flavorful.
- Lemon juice (~3 Tbsp): Injects a refreshing zing that balances richness.
- Salt (2 tsp + a dash): Essential seasoning for all components.
- Pepper (½ tsp + a dash): Adds subtle heat and balances flavors.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Pearl Onions
Step 1: Prepare the Classic Alfredo Sauce
Begin by melting butter over medium heat in a saucepan, then whisk in flour to form a smooth yellow paste, which will thicken your sauce beautifully. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and heat until the mixture is pleasantly thick and warm. Gradually introduce the Parmesan cheese in small increments, stirring well after each addition for that perfect cheesy melt. Finish with minced garlic and a dash of pepper to elevate the flavor. This creamy Alfredo sauce sets the rich, velvety foundation for your dish.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Pearl Onions and Broccoli
While the sauce cooks, preheat your oven to 375 degrees and grease a baking dish. Boil the frozen pearl onions and broccoli together just until tender, then swiftly drain. In a saucepan, meld butter and flour into a roux, then smoothly whisk in heavy cream. Sprinkle in nutmeg for a hint of warmth, then fold in Parmesan cheese until it melts into a creamy coating. Toss the cooked vegetables gently into the sauce ensuring every piece is luxuriously covered. Pour this luscious mixture into your baking dish, top with extra Parmesan, and bake until golden on top. This addition gives your dish a subtly sweet note balanced with creamy indulgence.
Step 3: Prepare the Baked Chicken Breast
Cube the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and combine them in a baking dish with brown sugar, salt, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, minced onion, pepper, chopped parsley, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. The mayo and lemon juice combo keeps the chicken moist and infused with bright, tangy flavor, while the spices add layers of savory goodness. Bake the chicken at 375 degrees until juicy and cooked through, about 20-30 minutes. These tender, flavorful chunks are the protein heart of your Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Pearl Onions.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta and Bring Everything Together
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook your choice of pasta until perfectly tender. Drain and return it to the pot, then generously cover the warm noodles with the freshly made Alfredo sauce. Gently fold in the baked chicken and the creamy pearl onion and broccoli mixture, making sure to scrape all that creamy goodness from their baking dishes. This final assembly step brings all the delicious components together in perfect harmony, delivering comforting warmth by the forkful.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Pearl Onions
Garnishes
Sprinkling chopped fresh parsley and an extra dusting of freshly grated Parmesan right before serving adds a pop of color and an inviting aroma that makes this dish feel extra special. If you love a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes offers a lovely spicy kick that balances the richness.
Side Dishes
Since this dish is wonderfully rich, pairing it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast. Garlic bread or a warm Italian baguette is also perfect for soaking up every last drop of that creamy sauce. Roasted asparagus or a crisp cucumber salad make for delightful veggie companions that won’t compete but complement the main attraction.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Pearl Onions family-style in a large, shallow serving dish so everyone can dig in and share the joy. For a fanciful presentation, plate individual servings in shallow bowls garnished with microgreens or edible flowers for a restaurant-worthy look. You can even try layering the components in clear glass casserole dishes for a visually stunning, multi-layered feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, cool any leftovers quickly and transfer to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, the Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Pearl Onions maintains its charm for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it a delightful next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This dish also freezes well if you want to save some for a busy day. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and cover tightly. Label them — then freeze for up to 2 months. When properly reheated, the chicken stays juicy, and the sauce keeps its creamy texture, making future meals just as comforting as the first time around.
Reheating
For the best reheating results, warm your leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk while reheating helps restore the velvety consistency of the Alfredo sauce. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pearl onions instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh pearl onions bring a slightly brighter flavor and firmer texture, but they require peeling before cooking. Frozen ones are perfectly fine and much more convenient for everyday cooking.
Is it necessary to use both milk and heavy cream in the Alfredo sauce?
Using both milk and heavy cream balances richness and keeps the sauce creamy without being overly heavy. You can adjust the amounts to suit your preference, but this combo offers the perfect texture and flavor.
Can I substitute the chicken breasts with another protein?
Definitely! Grilled shrimp, sautéed mushrooms, or even crispy tofu can be great alternatives that complement the creamy Alfredo and pearl onions beautifully.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the regular flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and select gluten-free pasta. This way, everyone can enjoy the Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Pearl Onions without missing out on any deliciousness.
What wine pairs well with this creamy dish?
A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs excellently, cutting through the richness and enhancing the savory flavors of the chicken and sauce.
Final Thoughts
There’s something utterly satisfying about a bowl of Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Pearl Onions that feels both indulgent and comforting in every bite. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weeknight, this recipe delivers warmth and richness with subtle layers of flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Give it a try and watch how this favorite quickly becomes a beloved classic in your kitchen rotation.
PrintCreamy Chicken Alfredo with Pearl Onions
This Chicken Alfredo Pasta with Pearl Onions recipe is a deliciously creamy and comforting dish that combines a rich homemade Alfredo sauce, tender baked chicken breast seasoned with savory spices, and luscious creamed pearl onions and broccoli. Perfectly cooked pasta is tossed with all components for a satisfying meal ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Full Recipe Ingredients
- 16 oz pasta of your choice (fettuccini is traditional, rigatoni used here)
- 1 x 14 oz package frozen pearl onions
- 1 x ~10-12 oz package frozen broccoli
- ~1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 cups 2% milk
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2/3 cup chicken broth
- 7 Tbsp butter
- 7 Tbsp flour
- 1 5/6 cup parmesan cheese
- 3 tsp minced garlic
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 2 Tbsp light brown sugar
- 2 tsp italian seasoning
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried minced onion or onion powder
- 4 Tbsp chopped parsley
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- ~3 Tbsp lemon juice (a large splash)
- 2 tsp plus a dash salt
- 1/2 tsp plus a dash pepper
Alfredo Sauce Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 cups 2% milk
- 4 1/2 Tbsp butter
- 4 1/2 Tbsp flour
- 1 1/3 cup parmesan cheese
- 3 tsp minced garlic
- A dash of pepper
Creamy Pearl Onions Ingredients
- 1 x 14 oz package frozen pearl onions
- 1 x ~10-12 oz package frozen broccoli
- 2 1/2 Tbsp butter
- 2 1/2 Tbsp flour
- 2/3 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Baked Chicken Breast Ingredients
- ~1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 Tbsp light brown sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp italian seasoning
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried minced onion or onion powder
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 4 Tbsp chopped parsley
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- ~3 Tbsp lemon juice (a large splash)
Pasta
- 16 oz pasta (your choice, cooked)
Instructions
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: Melt 4 1/2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 4 1/2 tablespoons of flour to form a yellow paste. Slowly add 1 1/2 cups milk and 1 1/2 cups heavy cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Heat and whisk for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens. Gradually incorporate 1 1/3 cups parmesan cheese in 1/3 cup increments, stirring until smooth. Stir in 3 teaspoons minced garlic and a dash of pepper to finish the sauce.
- Make Creamy Pearl Onions and Broccoli: Preheat oven to 375°F and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish. Bring a large pot of water to boil, add frozen pearl onions and broccoli, simmer 5-8 minutes until tender. Melt 2 1/2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 2 1/2 tablespoons flour gradually to form a paste. Slowly add 1/2 cup heavy cream while whisking until smooth. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg and stir in. Add 1/4 cup parmesan cheese mixing well. Drain the onions and broccoli, then combine them in the sauce. Transfer mixture to baking dish, top with remaining 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes until top is browned.
- Prepare Baked Chicken Breast: Preheat oven to 375°F. Dice chicken breasts into 1/2 to 3/4 inch cubes. In an 8×8 inch dish, mix 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, 2 teaspoons salt, 2 teaspoons italian seasoning, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried minced onion or onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 4 tablespoons chopped parsley, 1/3 cup mayonnaise, and ~3 tablespoons lemon juice. Toss chicken cubes thoroughly in seasoning mixture. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 16 oz of pasta and cook until tender according to package instructions. Drain pasta well and return it to the pot.
- Combine All Elements: Pour the prepared Alfredo sauce over the pasta and gently fold to coat. Add the creamy pearl onion and broccoli mixture and the baked seasoned chicken breast, folding carefully to combine all components using a spatula to scrape from baking dishes. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta with Pearl Onions!
Notes
- You can substitute pasta types depending on preference; fettuccini is classic but rigatoni works well too.
- If desired, add canned mushroom pieces and stems to the creamed onions and broccoli for extra flavor.
- When adding the parmesan cheese to the Alfredo sauce, add in increments to ensure smooth melting and to control thickness.
- Ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally for safe consumption.
- For a richer sauce, reduce the sauce further on stovetop before combining.