Description
This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a creamy and comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fettuccine in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz fettuccine (or your choice of pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-6 minutes, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add nutmeg and red pepper flakes, if using. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine:
- Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Stir to coat evenly. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet and mix until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Serve:
- Serve the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
- Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Add Extra Veggies: Include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian-American