Introduction
Imagine a creamy, indulgent pasta dish that combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the wholesome goodness of chicken and broccoli. Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a classic comfort food that never fails to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or craving a hearty meal on a cozy evening, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
What sets Chicken Broccoli Alfredo apart is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and velvety sauce come together harmoniously to create a dish that is both comforting and delicious. This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional Alfredo pasta by adding protein-rich chicken and nutrient-packed broccoli, making it a wholesome choice for your next meal.
This beloved dish also holds cultural significance as a popular Italian-inspired recipe that has been adapted and enjoyed by families around the world. Its creamy sauce and hearty ingredients make it a staple on many dinner tables, bringing people together over a shared love for good food and great company.
Get ready to embark on a culinary journey as we explore the steps to create a memorable Chicken Broccoli Alfredo that will leave you craving for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best features of this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo recipe is its versatility. You can customize it to suit your taste preferences by adjusting the seasoning, adding extra vegetables, or even substituting the protein with shrimp or tofu. This flexibility allows you to create a personalized version of the dish that caters to your dietary needs and flavor preferences.
Additionally, this recipe offers a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that will delight your palate. The combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and smooth Alfredo sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort foods or looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to win you over.
Moreover, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is not just a delicious indulgence; it also provides nutritional benefits. Broccoli is a nutrient powerhouse, rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while chicken offers a good source of lean protein. By incorporating these wholesome ingredients into your meal, you can enjoy a well-rounded dish that nourishes your body and satisfies your cravings.
Prepare your kitchen for a culinary adventure as we gather all the ingredients needed to bring this delectable Chicken Broccoli Alfredo to life.
Ingredients
Serves 4-6
- 12 oz fettuccine (or linguine/penne)
- 2½ cups broccoli florets
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper
- Fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook Pasta & Broccoli
Boil salted water. Cook pasta al dente. Add broccoli last 3 minutes. Drain, reserve 1 cup pasta water.
Step 2: Sear Chicken
Heat 2 tbsp oil in large skillet medium-high. Season chicken salt/pepper/garlic powder. Cook 6-7 minutes golden. Remove.
Step 3: Garlic Butter Base
Same skillet, butter + 1 tbsp oil medium. Add garlic 30 seconds fragrant.
Step 4: Creamy Sauce
Add cream, simmer 3 minutes thickened. Stir Parmesan until melted smooth. Thin with pasta water if needed.
Step 5: Combine
Add chicken, pasta, broccoli back. Toss 2 minutes coated. Season salt/pepper.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish parsley, extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Expert Tips for Success
Fresh Parmesan melts silky (pre-grated contains starch)
Pasta water = perfect sauce consistency
High-heat chicken sear = flavor foundation
Don’t boil cream—gentle simmer prevents breaking
Leftover rotisserie = 10-minute version
Variations and Substitutions
One-Pan: Cook raw pasta in skillet with cream/broth
Baked Casserole: Transfer to dish, mozzarella top, 375°F 15 min
Shrimp: Swap chicken 2-3 min cook time
Mushroom: Cremini with broccoli
Light: Half cream, half milk
Storage
Fridge 4 days airtight.
Freeze 2 months (sauce may separate).
Reheat stovetop with milk splash.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with:
Garlic bread sauce moppers
Caesar salad
Roasted asparagus
Chardonnay
FAQs
Q: Sauce grainy?
A: Low-quality Parmesan. Fresh grate block.
Q: Pasta mushy?
A: Undercook 1 minute al dente.
Q: Chicken dry?
A: Don’t overcook. 165°F internal.
Q: Vegan?
A: Chick’n + cashew cream + vegan cheese.
Q: Instant Pot?
A: Sauté chicken, deglaze, pasta+liquid, 4 min HP.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo proves comfort food excellence needn’t complicate life—creamy, garlicky, chicken-y perfection ready when you need nurturing in bowl form.
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Weeknight savior assembled! One-pan shortcut or baked casserole preference?
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
A creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the wholesome goodness of chicken and broccoli. This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo recipe offers a delightful twist on the traditional Alfredo pasta by adding protein-rich chicken and nutrient-packed broccoli, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked chicken, broccoli florets, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Cook for a few minutes until the chicken is heated through and the broccoli is tender.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
