Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is a comforting and rich dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Packed with flavors, it’s an ultimate combination of creamy goodness and nutritious veggies. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
• Cutting board and knife for chopping ingredients
• Colander for draining pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Grater (optional) for fresh Parmesan cheese

Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 2 cups of broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 12 oz fettuccine pasta (or any pasta of choice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to make Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Step-by-Step?

Step 1: Prepare the pasta.
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually for about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the chicken.
While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Cook the broccoli.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if necessary. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until they become tender but still crisp. If you prefer, you can blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes instead.

Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo sauce.
To make the creamy Alfredo sauce, reduce the heat to medium-low in the skillet. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mozzarella (if using), and continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Combine everything.
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and sliced chicken into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a meatless version.
• Spicy Chicken Alfredo: Add red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy kick.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.

Cooking Note

For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative such as coconut milk or almond milk. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or opt for a low-fat option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. For a more indulgent meal, top with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Helpful Tips

• To prevent the pasta from becoming too dry, reserve a cup of pasta cooking water before draining it. Add a little of this water to the sauce if needed to thin it out.
• You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a faster version of this recipe.
• For added flavor, sprinkle some crispy bacon bits on top of your finished dish.

Tips for the Best Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

• Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the Alfredo sauce.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and texture.
• Make sure the sauce doesn’t boil too vigorously to prevent it from separating.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

30 minutes

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 550 per serving
• Protein: 36g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 30g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g

Similar recipes you may also like:

• Easy Lobster Pasta Recipe
• Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread
• Delicious Shrimp Scampi Recipe

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of pasta?
  Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti based on your preference.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the chicken and Alfredo sauce in advance and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat and combine with cooked pasta and broccoli.
• How do I make the sauce thicker?
  If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. You can also add a little extra Parmesan cheese to help thicken it.

Conclusion

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that combines all the creamy and cheesy flavors we love. With easy steps and simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with sides, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today for a comforting, flavorful meal!

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