Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Recipe to Savor

The delightful aroma of Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds and promising a creamy explosion of flavor. Picture perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a velvety sauce, tender chicken pieces, and vibrant broccoli adding a splash of color. It’s comfort food at its best, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests.

I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends asked if I had secretly attended culinary school. Spoiler alert: I hadn’t. But this recipe was my ticket to kitchen stardom, and now it can be yours too. Gather your loved ones around the table because this is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone together in blissful harmony.

I still chuckle when my cousin claimed he could eat this dish every day for a week without getting bored—challenge accepted!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.

• Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets; they should be firm and fresh for the best texture and flavor.

• Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne): Opt for your favorite type; they both hold onto the sauce wonderfully.

• Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its luxurious creaminess; don’t skimp on quality here!

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh cheese for maximum flavor—it’s worth it!

• Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for that aromatic kick that elevates the entire dish.

• Butter: A little butter adds richness to the sauce.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, tossing with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Add sliced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on both sides and no longer pink in the center—about 6-8 minutes.

Add Broccoli: Toss in bite-sized broccoli florets during the last few minutes of cooking the chicken. Let them steam slightly while keeping their vibrant green color—this takes about 3-4 minutes.

Create the Alfredo Sauce: Reduce heat to low, then add minced garlic into the skillet with chicken and broccoli. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds! Pour in heavy cream slowly while stirring continuously.

Add Cheese: Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste your sauce; sprinkle in more salt or pepper if needed—it should feel like a warm hug!

Toss Everything Together: Combine the drained pasta with your creamy sauce mixture. Gently fold everything together until well coated—don’t rush; let those flavors mingle!

Now all that’s left is to serve it hot! Enjoy your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta with some extra Parmesan sprinkled on top if you want to feel fancy (and who doesn’t?). Celebrate each bite as you remember why you fell in love with cooking in the first place!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, sear the chicken until golden, then cook the pasta while preparing a luscious Alfredo sauce. This sequence ensures everything is hot and ready at once.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap broccoli with spinach or add mushrooms for extra flavor. Experimenting with garlic or Parmesan can also enhance the dish’s richness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of my friend who once added way too much garlic, thinking it was a good idea. While we laughed through tears (of laughter), it turned into a running joke at our dinner parties!

FAQ

What pasta works best for Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta?

Fettuccine or penne are ideal choices as they hold the creamy sauce well.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap chicken for tofu and use vegetable broth in the sauce.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use whole grain pasta and substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

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Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

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Indulge in the creamy goodness of Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta, a dish that transforms any meal into a cozy gathering. With tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a rich Alfredo sauce, this recipe is both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family dinner, this delightful dish is sure to satisfy. Quick and easy to prepare, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta will have everyone asking for seconds!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Prepare pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown and cooked through (6-8 minutes). Remove from skillet.
3. Add broccoli: Toss broccoli florets into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking chicken for steaming.
4. Make Alfredo sauce: Reduce heat; add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds. Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously.
5. Incorporate cheese: Gradually mix in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Combine: Gently fold cooked pasta into the sauce mixture until well coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1½ cups)
• Calories: 615
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 710mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 57g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 105mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute broccoli with spinach or add mushrooms for added flavor. For a healthier version, use whole grain pasta and Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.