Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe: Complete Guide To Creamy Pasta

Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo: The Creamy Pasta Classic

Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo is a beloved comfort food enjoyed by families around the world. With its creamy homemade sauce, juicy chicken, and tender broccoli, this pasta dish delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether prepared for a special occasion or a busy weeknight, it never fails to satisfy. In this article, you’ll discover a complete and detailed guide to Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo, including ingredients, step-by-step preparation, expert tips, nutrition insights, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions.

Table of Contents

• About Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo
• Ingredients & Equipment
• Step-By-Step Instructions
• Pro Tips for the Perfect Alfredo
• Variations & Substitutions
• Nutrition Information
• Serving Suggestions
• Frequently Asked Questions

About Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo

Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo is a creamy pasta dish that brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in a luscious sauce. The dish is famous for its rich Alfredo sauce made from butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Combined with lightly seared chicken and crisp broccoli, tossed with fettuccine or penne, it creates a meal that’s at once hearty and elegant.

Originating from classic Italian-American cuisine, this dish is renowned for being both family-friendly and versatile. It can be quickly prepared in under an hour, making it a weeknight favorite .

Ingredients & Equipment

Core Ingredients

• Pasta: Fettuccine, penne, or your favorite variety
• Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
• Broccoli: Fresh florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Alfredo Sauce:
  • Butter
  • Minced garlic
  • Heavy cream
  • Parmesan cheese (freshly grated recommended)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Optional: Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes

Optional Ingredients

• Cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
• Milk (to thin the sauce if needed)
• Olive oil (for searing chicken)
• Cornstarch or flour (for thickening, if desired)

Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for cooking pasta and broccoli)
• Skillet or sauté pan (for searing chicken)
• Whisk and wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander or slotted spoon

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

   • Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces or strips.
   • Season with salt, pepper, and (optionally) Italian seasoning.
   • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
   • Sear chicken until golden and just cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside .

2. Cook Pasta & Broccoli

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add broccoli florets; cook for 2 minutes until just tender and bright green.
   • Remove broccoli with a slotted spoon or sieve, then plunge into ice water or rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
   • Using the same water, add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water .

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce

   • In the skillet used for chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
   • Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (add red pepper flakes if using).
   • Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly. Add garlic powder and freshly ground black pepper.
   • Simmer for 10–12 minutes until the sauce thickens, stirring frequently .
   • Add freshly grated Parmesan a handful at a time, whisking until smooth and fully melted.
   • For extra creaminess, stir in cream cheese or a splash of milk, if desired.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Combine and Finish

   • Add cooked chicken and broccoli to the sauce, stirring gently to coat.
   • Toss in the cooked pasta, combining well. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
   • Simmer for 2–3 minutes over low heat until hot and well combined.

5. Serve

   • Plate the Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo in shallow bowls.
   • Top with extra Parmesan, cracked pepper, or chopped fresh parsley for garnish.
   • Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Alfredo

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest, smoothest sauce. Pre-grated cheeses can make sauces grainy .
• Do not overcook the broccoli; it should remain slightly crisp for texture and color.
• For richer flavor, use a mix of heavy cream and a splash of half-and-half or whole milk.
• If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the proportion of cream and add more broccoli.
• Leftovers can be reheated gently with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess.

Variations & Substitutions

• Sausage Alfredo: Swap the chicken for sliced Italian sausage.
• Seafood Alfredo: Add shrimp or scallops for a luxurious twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties and check sauce thickeners.
• Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and increase broccoli or add sautéed mushrooms.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives, though the texture will differ.

Nutrition Information

This dish provides a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. While Alfredo sauce is known for its richness and calorie content, incorporating broccoli and using lean meats or lighter creams can make it more healthful. For those mindful of sodium or cholesterol, consider these adjustments:

• Reduce or use a lower-fat cream
• Incorporate more vegetables (like spinach or peas)
• Use grilled or poached chicken instead of pan-fried

Typical Nutrition (per serving)*

*Values will vary based on exact ingredients and serving sizes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up extra sauce.
• Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for freshness.
• For a special occasion, add a glass of chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
• Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or lemon zest for added flavor and crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo ahead of time?

A: Yes! Prepare the sauce and other components separately, then combine and reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream before serving. For optimal texture, cook the pasta just before serving and toss everything together at the last minute.

Q: Is it possible to use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

A: Absolutely. Shred or dice the chicken, then stir it into the Alfredo sauce just to heat through before combining with pasta and broccoli.

Q: My sauce turned out too thick/thin—how do I fix it?

A: If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water, milk, or cream and whisk until desired consistency. If too thin, simmer for a few more minutes or add a bit more cheese to thicken.

Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?

A: Yes, simply choose a gluten-free pasta and ensure that your Alfredo sauce uses cornstarch (not flour) as a thickener if needed.

Q: What pasta shapes work best with Alfredo?

A: Traditional fettuccine is classic, but penne, rigatoni, or shells also hold sauce well and make for easy eating, especially for kids.

Conclusion

Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo stands as a timeless favorite for its creamy texture, satisfying flavors, and family appeal. Crafted from a handful of staple ingredients, it’s a recipe every home cook should have in their repertoire. Whether you keep it classic or experiment with variations, this dish promises comfort and deliciousness in every bite. Try it for your next pasta night and enjoy a homemade meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Author

Srija Burman

 

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

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