Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Indulging in a plate of creamy chicken and broccoli Alfredo pasta is a delightful experience that warms the heart and satisfies the stomach. This decadent dish combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and silky fettuccine in a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or any occasion where comfort food is needed.

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy chicken and broccoli Alfredo pasta is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly simple to make, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. It’s a one-pan meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor, ensuring you spend less time at the stove and more time enjoying your delicious creation. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak some vegetables into your dinner while satisfying everyone’s craving for a hearty meal.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Following these simple steps will guide you through creating a luscious plate of creamy chicken and broccoli Alfredo pasta that your family will love.

Ingredients:

8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet where the chicken was cooked, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, allowing the flavors to mingle. Then, add the broccoli florets and cook until they are tender.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it melts and combines smoothly with the cream.
Add the cooked fettuccine and the previously cooked chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything to coat in the rich Alfredo sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Pro Tips for Success with Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Cook the Chicken Completely: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to avoid any food safety issues. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: You want your broccoli to retain its vibrant green color and a bit of crunch, adding texture to the dish.
Fresh Ingredients Are Best: Use fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
Save Pasta Water: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. If the sauce is too thick, adding a bit of this water can help achieve the desired consistency.
Variety of Pasta: While fettuccine is traditional, feel free to use any pasta shape you enjoy, such as penne or rotini.

Flavor Variations for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Add Other Vegetables: Incorporate extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutrition and enhance flavor.
Spice It Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while cooking.
Protein Alternatives: Instead of chicken, consider shrimp or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Different Cheeses: Instead of just Parmesan, try adding mozzarella or a dash of cream cheese for extra creaminess.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Serve your creamy chicken and broccoli Alfredo pasta with a side salad for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or crusty rolls also make great accompaniments, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a more gourmet touch, consider pairing it with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess. If you want to freeze it, do so in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|———-|———|——-|—–|——-|——–|
| 620 | 32g | 75g | 30g| 3g | 600mg |

FAQ About Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with other pasta shapes such as penne, bowtie, or rotini. Each will create a delightful base for the creamy sauce.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Creamy chicken and broccoli Alfredo pasta is great for meal prep. Simply store in individual containers and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy a quick meal.

How can I enhance the flavor of the sauce?

To elevate the flavors in your Alfredo sauce, consider adding a splash of white wine or a bit of lemon juice for brightness. Fresh herbs, like basil or thyme, can also add wonderful aromas and tastes.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter (to achieve a similar fat content). Just keep in mind the sauce may be less rich.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy texture and mild flavors of the Alfredo sauce make it appealing for children and adults alike. To make it more nutritious, you can adjust the amount of broccoli or add other vegetables they enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious plate of creamy chicken and broccoli Alfredo pasta! This recipe is straightforward and full of flavor, making it a fantastic option for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. Remember, with a bit of creativity and a few variations, you can enjoy this dish in many different ways. Happy cooking, and enjoy every comforting bite!

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Total Time: 45
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in a deliciously creamy chicken and broccoli Alfredo pasta, combining tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and silky fettuccine in a rich Alfredo sauce.

Ingredients

8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
Add broccoli florets and cook until tender.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until it melts smoothly.
Add cooked fettuccine and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat in sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for best flavor. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 30
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian