Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is a timeless comfort dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It is the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet familiar, making it a reliable favorite for both busy weeknights and relaxed family dinners. I first made this recipe when I wanted something comforting but still balanced, and the combination of creamy sauce with fresh broccoli delivered exactly that. The broccoli adds color, texture, and freshness that keeps the dish from feeling too heavy, while the chicken provides hearty protein. Everything comes together in a smooth, velvety sauce that coats every bite. This recipe is straightforward, customizable, and always satisfying. If you enjoy classic pasta dishes that deliver warmth, richness, and dependable flavor, this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is one you will return to often.
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Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta: Creamy Comfort with a Classic Twist
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A creamy and comforting pasta dish made with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; add broccoli during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until sauce thickens.
- Add cooked chicken and stir to coat with sauce.
- Toss in cooked pasta and broccoli until evenly combined.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve warm with extra parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add pasta water to loosen sauce if needed.
- Best served immediately while creamy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ingredients Breakdown
Chicken breast provides lean protein and a tender texture that pairs well with creamy sauces.
Broccoli florets add freshness, color, and a mild bite that balances the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
Pasta forms the base of the dish. Fettuccine is traditional, but other shapes work well.
Butter creates the rich foundation of the Alfredo sauce.
Garlic adds aromatic depth and savory flavor.
Heavy cream gives the sauce its signature smooth, velvety texture.
Parmesan cheese adds nutty, savory richness and thickens the sauce naturally.
Salt enhances all the flavors and balances the creaminess.
Black pepper adds gentle warmth and depth.
Olive oil is used for cooking the chicken and prevents sticking.
Optional red pepper flakes add subtle heat if desired.
Directions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Begin by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. During the last few minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot to blanch them. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper, then cook until golden on the outside and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and slice into bite-sized pieces.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated in the Alfredo sauce. Allow the mixture to warm through briefly before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
Variations and Customizations
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is very adaptable. You can substitute grilled chicken with rotisserie chicken for convenience, which I have tested and found works perfectly for busy nights.
Vegetables can be adjusted easily. Mushrooms, peas, or spinach blend well with the Alfredo sauce and add variety. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
Cheese choices can also vary. Adding a small amount of mozzarella creates extra creaminess, while pecorino romano adds sharper flavor. For extra depth, a pinch of nutmeg enhances the cream sauce subtly.
This dish can also be baked briefly with extra cheese on top for a casserole-style finish.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is a hearty, protein-rich meal. Chicken provides lean protein, broccoli adds fiber and vitamins, and the creamy sauce contributes richness. Enjoyed in moderation, it fits well into a balanced comfort-food rotation.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Do Not Overcook Broccoli
Blanch briefly to keep it bright and slightly crisp.
Low Heat Sauce
Gentle heat prevents the cream sauce from separating.
Season Gradually
Taste as you go to balance salt and cheese.
FAQs
What pasta works best?
Fettuccine is classic, but penne or rotini work well.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw and drain it well before adding.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but reheat gently to maintain sauce texture.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and creamy.
Can I add garlic bread on the side?
Yes, it pairs perfectly.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta.
Why is my sauce too thick?
Add a splash of pasta water or cream.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Milk works but creates a thinner sauce.
Can I add bacon?
Yes, cooked bacon adds smoky flavor.
What herbs pair well?
Parsley or basil add freshness.
Conclusion
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is a classic, comforting dish that combines creamy richness with fresh vegetables and tender chicken. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it is a dependable recipe that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table every time.
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