If comfort food had a superstar, it would definitely be this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe. Imagine tender chicken pieces mingling with vibrant broccoli florets, all wrapped in a luscious, velvety Alfredo sauce that clings perfectly to every strand of fettuccine. This dish is the ultimate cozy dinner that feels both indulgent and wholesome, turning simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal that your family and friends will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and richness. These basics come together effortlessly to create a dish that’s both satisfying and beautiful on the plate.
- 8 ounces fettuccine: The perfect pasta choice for Alfredo because its wide strands hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and mild, chicken makes this dish hearty without overpowering the flavors.
- 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt (divided): Enhances and balances all the savory components; splitting it helps season each element just right.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that brightens the creamy sauce.
- 2 broccoli crowns (approximately 11 ounces, cut into florets and finely chopped): Brings a fresh pop of color, nutrients, and a slight crunch to contrast the sauce’s smoothness.
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and a touch of zest.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (divided): Essential for that rich, silky base; dividing it helps cook chicken and veggies perfectly.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy, dreamy texture of the Alfredo sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers the nutty, savory flavor that defines Alfredo sauce and brings everything together.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the fettuccine until it’s perfectly al dente—just tender with a little bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside, so it’s ready to soak up that delicious Alfredo sauce later. Cooking it just right makes sure it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While your pasta is cooking, slice your chicken breasts in half crosswise to create thinner pieces that cook evenly and quickly. Season generously with half the kosher salt and all the black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the chicken’s natural flavor and complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat one tablespoon of butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add your seasoned chicken pieces and cook them until golden brown and cooked through, about four minutes on each side. Once done, transfer the chicken to a cutting board so it can rest while you work on the sauce. Resting keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
Step 4: Cook Broccoli and Garlic
In the same pan, melt the remaining butter, and toss in the finely chopped broccoli and garlic. Let them cook for about five minutes until the broccoli softens just enough and the garlic releases its irresistible fragrance. This step layers in beautiful, fresh flavors that brighten the dish.
Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Pour the heavy cream into the pan with the broccoli and garlic, gently bringing it to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and keep the sauce simmering for around five minutes to thicken slightly. The Parmesan melds with the cream and butter, crafting a smooth, rich sauce that’s truly the heart of the recipe.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Cut your rested chicken into bite-size pieces and add them back into the bubbling Alfredo sauce. Give it a good stir to ensure every piece is lovingly coated, allowing the chicken to soak up those creamy, cheesy flavors.
Step 7: Toss Pasta with Sauce
Finally, add the cooked fettuccine into the pan. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, making sure every strand is covered in that luscious creamy chicken broccoli Alfredo sauce. Serve it warm for the ultimate comfort experience.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a vibrant burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness delightfully. For a touch of extra indulgence, a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan just before serving works wonders.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also fantastic options to mop up any leftover sauce, turning your meal into a complete feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation twist, try serving this Alfredo pasta in individual mini cast-iron skillets or shallow bowls for a cozy, rustic feel. You can also plate the chicken and broccoli atop the pasta for a layered look that shows off each ingredient.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually mellow and blend beautifully after resting overnight, making the next-day meal just as satisfying.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, too! Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to two months. Just be mindful that the texture of the broccoli might soften slightly upon thawing, but the flavors remain delicious.
Reheating
When reheating, gently warm the leftovers in a skillet over low heat to preserve the creamy texture. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help refresh the sauce’s creaminess and prevent it from becoming too thick or dry.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is classic for Alfredo, you can swap in linguine, penne, or even fusilli. Just pick a pasta that holds sauce well, and adjust cooking time accordingly.
Is it okay to use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
You can, but fresh broccoli gives the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture that might thin out the sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or lighter?
For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or cashew cream alternatives, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. For a lighter option, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich.
What’s the best way to get the sauce thick and creamy?
Simmering the cream with Parmesan cheese slowly helps the sauce naturally thicken. Avoid boiling vigorously, and stir frequently to keep it smooth and avoid separation.
How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?
Cooking the chicken for about four minutes per side on medium heat usually does the trick. Check for clear juices and no pink inside, or use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe is a brilliant blend of rich, indulgent flavors and comforting textures that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s guaranteed to satisfy and impress. So go ahead, dive in and make this dish your new favorite—it’s too good not to share.
Print
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo recipe combines tender chicken breasts, fresh broccoli florets, and rich Alfredo sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine, this comforting Italian-inspired dish is ready in just 40 minutes and serves four people, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or cozy meal for the family.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces fettuccine
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables
- 2 broccoli crowns (approximately 11 ounces, cut into florets and finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside to be combined later.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, slice the chicken breasts in half crosswise to create thinner, even pieces for consistent cooking. Season the chicken with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and all of the black pepper evenly on both sides.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and hot. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook approximately four minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest briefly.
- Cook Broccoli and Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped broccoli florets and garlic, cooking for about five minutes until the broccoli softens and the garlic becomes fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer over medium-low heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue simmering for around five minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Cut the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken back into the sauce in the skillet, stirring well to incorporate all the flavors evenly.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet and toss everything thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy broccoli Alfredo sauce. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding freshly cracked black pepper when serving.
- You can substitute fettuccine with other pasta types like penne or linguine.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best taste and texture.
- To make the dish lighter, reduce the amount of butter and heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
