Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a comforting pasta dish that combines tender pieces of chicken, crisp broccoli florets, and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine. This recipe delivers a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying choice for a family dinner or an elegant weekend meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a classic dish with a modern twist. The creamy Alfredo sauce is elevated by the savory taste of lightly seasoned chicken and the healthy crunch of steamed broccoli. Every bite delivers a rich and velvety flavor that comforts and delights the palate. The recipe is straightforward and accessible, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality results in your own home with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fettuccine or pasta of your choice
• Chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Fresh broccoli florets
• Unsalted butter
• Heavy cream
• Garlic, minced
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Olive oil
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Sauté the chicken until it is golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm.
3. Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a small pot of water to a boil and add the broccoli florets. Cook for 2–3 minutes until just tender yet still crisp. Drain and immediately rinse with cold water to maintain their vibrant green color.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium. Melt the butter, then add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Allow the cream to warm up and reduce slightly for 3–4 minutes. Gradually incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes thick and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the blanched broccoli. Toss in the drained pasta and stir well to ensure that every strand is coated with the luxurious Alfredo sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately while hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4 people generously.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes

Variations

• Pasta Substitution: Replace fettuccine with penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti based on your preference.
• Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with shrimp or a plant-based protein for a seafood or vegetarian version.
• Extra Veggies: Enhance the dish by adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
• Spicy Twist: Introduce a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat that complements the creamy texture.

Storage/reheating

Leftover Chicken Broccoli Alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe container for 1–2 minutes, adding a splash of cream or water to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Note that pasta may absorb additional sauce when reheated, so consider serving with extra grated Parmesan if needed.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best with Chicken Broccoli Alfredo?

Fettuccine is the traditional choice for its ability to hold the creamy sauce well, but you may also use penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni according to your preference.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken can be used to reduce cooking time. Simply shred or cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it during the final stage of reheating.

How do I ensure the sauce does not become too thick or clumpy?

Stir the sauce continuously while adding the Parmesan cheese, and maintain a low to medium heat to prevent it from over-reducing.

Is it necessary to blanch the broccoli before adding it to the dish?

Blanching helps preserve the broccoli’s vibrant color and crisp texture. However, you can also steam or sauté it briefly if preferred.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce in advance?

While the sauce is best served fresh, you can prepare it a few hours ahead. Reheat gently on the stove with a little extra cream, stirring well before combining with the pasta.

How do I prevent the pasta from drying out during reheating?

When reheating, add a splash of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to maintain moisture and restore the sauce’s consistency.

Can I freeze Chicken Broccoli Alfredo?

It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing, altering the texture and consistency.

What if I want a lighter version of the sauce?

For a lighter alternative, substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk and consider reducing the amount of butter, though this may slightly alter the richness.

How can I add extra flavor to the dish?

Enhance the flavor by incorporating a garlic herb mix or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten the overall taste.

Can this dish be adapted for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that any pre-packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a timeless dish that delights with its combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and luxuriously creamy pasta. Its versatility, paired with the ease of preparation and satisfying flavor profile, makes it an ideal choice for both busy weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy this comforting meal that brings a touch of elegance and warmth to your dining table.

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