Creamy Broccoli Chicken Alfredo: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Creamy Broccoli Chicken Alfredo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound fettuccine pasta; 2 heads broccoli, chopped ((about 3-4 cups)); 24 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 4 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, grated or finely minced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish); 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 pinch salt; 1 pinch pepper

Introduction to Creamy Broccoli Chicken Alfredo

Creamy Broccoli Chicken Alfredo is one of those dishes that can brighten up any meal. It combines the rich flavors of creamy Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and bright green broccoli, all served over fettuccine pasta. This dish is not only comforting but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress!

A Personal Story Behind My Creamy Broccoli Chicken Alfredo Journey

I still remember the first time I tried Chicken Alfredo. It was at a small Italian restaurant where the aroma of garlic and parmesan filled the air. The creamy sauce, paired with pasta, chicken, and vegetables, made every bite a delight. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to recreate that delicious dish at home. Over the years, I’ve perfected my recipe, and now I’m excited to share it with you.

What Makes This Creamy Broccoli Chicken Alfredo Recipe Special?

This recipe stands out not just for its taste but also for its simplicity. The combination of fresh ingredients like broccoli and chicken, paired with a homemade Alfredo sauce, makes it much healthier and more flavorful than store-bought alternatives. Plus, using a cast iron skillet enhances the dish’s flavor by allowing the garlic to caramelize perfectly. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal at home!

The Full Creamy Broccoli Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Ingredients

1 pound fettuccine pasta
2 heads of broccoli, chopped (about 3-4 cups)
24 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 tablespoons butter
3 cloves of garlic, grated or finely minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Salt and pepper

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is essential for cooking the fettuccine to perfection.
In a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the chopped broccoli with a pinch of salt and pepper for about 4 minutes until it turns bright green. Add 1/4 cup of water and continue cooking until the water evaporates and the broccoli is crisp-tender. Transfer the broccoli to a bowl.
Cook the fettuccine in the boiling water according to the package instructions. This typically takes around 8-10 minutes.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and cook the chicken in an even layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to the bowl with the broccoli.
Melt the butter in the skillet, then add the minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the heavy cream, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet to enhance the flavor. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and slightly bubbling. Reduce the heat to low.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the noodles evenly. Add the cooked chicken and broccoli, tossing everything together to combine. If needed, add pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency to your liking.
Serve the broccoli chicken Alfredo warm, topped with additional grated parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy finish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Creamy Broccoli Chicken Alfredo

This dish is delicious on its own, but there are many ways to enhance it! Consider serving it with a side salad for added freshness or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. For a lighter version, try using half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. This swap will still give you a creamy texture while reducing calories. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley on top for added flavor and presentation!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Broccoli Chicken Alfredo

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the chicken, broccoli, and pasta, then store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat and combine with the sauce.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Just remember that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
What can I use instead of fettuccine?
You can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or rigatoni, depending on your taste.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian meal.

Enjoy making this creamy broccoli chicken Alfredo, and share it with your loved ones!

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: 650
Servings: 6