Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe You’ll Love

The aroma of creamy Alfredo sauce wafts through the air, mingling with the savory scent of sautéed chicken and the crisp freshness of broccoli. Picture this: a plate so inviting that it practically begs you to dive in, with tender chicken nestled among bright green florets, all enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce. That’s exactly what you get with this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe.

Now, let’s talk memories. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was during a particularly chaotic week filled with work deadlines and kids’ soccer practices. I desperately needed something that would not only satisfy my family but also bring a little joy to our hectic evening. The moment I plated this dish, their eyes lit up like Christmas morning. Trust me; this meal delivers on both flavor and nostalgia.

Ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts should do the trick; adjust based on your crew’s appetite.

• Fresh Broccoli: Opt for bright green florets that are firm and fresh, as they add both color and nutrition.

• Fettuccine Pasta: This classic pasta shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully; about 12 ounces is perfect.

• Heavy Cream: For that ultra-rich and decadent sauce, don’t skimp on quality cream.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best! It adds depth of flavor that pre-grated cheese just can’t match.

• Garlic: Two to three cloves minced will infuse the dish with aromatic goodness.

• Olive Oil: A tablespoon or two for cooking the chicken adds flavor while keeping things healthy.

For the Sauce:

• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning is key; adjust according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about six minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Cook the Broccoli

In the same skillet (don’t wash it—flavor!), toss in your broccoli florets. Add a splash of water and cover for about four minutes until they’re bright green and tender-crisp.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low and add minced garlic to the skillet with broccoli. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant; then pour in heavy cream. Stir gently while bringing it to a simmer.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add sliced chicken back into the skillet along with cooked fettuccine. Toss everything together while gradually adding Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. If needed, incorporate reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer everything onto plates or into bowls, sprinkle with extra Parmesan if you’re feeling generous, and enjoy! This rich dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or even a light salad for balance.

And there you have it—your very own Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe! Enjoy every creamy bite as you savor the flavors that come together beautifully in this comforting meal fit for any occasion.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors. While that sizzles, cook your pasta to al dente perfection. Then, prepare the sauce using the chicken drippings for an extra flavor kick. Trust me, efficiency is key here!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the broccoli with your favorite veggies like spinach or bell peppers. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or parmesan, or spice things up with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if necessary to restore creaminess.

Sometimes I think this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe could win a popularity contest at family gatherings! My cousin once declared it “better than any restaurant” after devouring two plates. That’s my kind of compliment!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe?

To prepare a delicious Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe, you will need fresh chicken breast, broccoli florets, fettuccine pasta, heavy cream, garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Additionally, salt and pepper enhance the flavor. It’s essential to use high-quality ingredients to achieve the best taste. You can also add some Italian herbs for extra seasoning if desired. Always choose fresh broccoli and chicken for optimal flavor and texture in this creamy dish.

How long does it take to make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo?

The Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe is relatively quick to prepare. In total, expect the cooking time to be around 30 to 40 minutes. This includes boiling the fettuccine pasta, cooking the chicken until golden brown, and sautéing the broccoli until tender. The creamy Alfredo sauce comes together in just a few minutes. This makes it an excellent option for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but still want something satisfying and delicious.

Can I make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep components of the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe ahead of time. Cook the chicken and broccoli earlier in the day and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat them and prepare the Alfredo sauce fresh for optimal creaminess. However, keep in mind that reheating may slightly alter the texture of the pasta. It’s best to cook everything fresh if possible when serving guests or family.

Is Chicken Broccoli Alfredo healthy?

While a traditional Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe can be rich due to its creamy sauce and cheese content, it does offer some nutritional benefits. Chicken provides a good source of protein, while broccoli adds vitamins and minerals. To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta or reducing cream by substituting with low-fat milk or Greek yogurt. This way, you can enjoy a comforting dish while being mindful of your health goals without sacrificing taste.

Conclusion for Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe:

In summary, the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe is an easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy sauce over fettuccine pasta. With its quick preparation time and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Remember to use fresh ingredients for the best flavors and textures. Whether served as a cozy dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this delightful dish never fails to satisfy everyone at the table!

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Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

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Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a creamy, indulgent dish that perfectly marries tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and fettuccine pasta in a rich Alfredo sauce. This recipe effortlessly transforms a busy weeknight meal into a comforting dining experience, making it an ideal choice for families or gatherings. Serve it with garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal that will delight everyone at the table.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook fettuccine in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook about 6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.
3. In the same skillet, add broccoli florets with a splash of water and cover for about 4 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Lower the heat, add minced garlic to the skillet, sauté for one minute, then stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
5. Add sliced chicken and cooked fettuccine to the skillet. Gradually incorporate Parmesan cheese, adding reserved pasta water as needed for desired creaminess.
6. Plate your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo and enjoy! Optionally top with extra Parmesan.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 680
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Substitute broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for variety. For added spice, consider including red pepper flakes. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat on low heat adding a splash of milk if needed.