Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is one of those dependable recipes that never goes out of style. It is creamy, comforting, and satisfying without feeling overly complicated. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and vibrant broccoli are coated in a rich Alfredo sauce that brings everything together in the most comforting way. This dish works just as well for a busy weeknight as it does for a relaxed weekend dinner.
What I especially appreciate about this recipe is how balanced it feels. The broccoli cuts through the richness of the sauce, while the chicken makes it hearty enough to stand on its own as a complete meal. I have tested this recipe with both heavy cream and a mix of milk and cream, and while both versions were good, the classic cream-based sauce delivered the smoothest and most indulgent texture. It is a reliable, family-friendly recipe that always earns compliments.
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Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta: A Creamy Classic You’ll Make Again and Again
- 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 fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, sliced or cubed
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Add broccoli during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add butter and heavy cream, stirring until warmed.
- Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Add cooked chicken to the sauce and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Add pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
- Serve immediately for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pasta serves as the foundation of this dish. Fettuccine is traditional, but penne or rotini also work well for holding the sauce.
Chicken breast provides lean protein and cooks quickly while remaining tender when prepared properly.
Broccoli florets add freshness, color, and a mild bitterness that balances the creamy sauce.
Butter forms the base of the Alfredo sauce and contributes richness.
Garlic enhances the flavor with warmth and depth without overpowering the dish.
Heavy cream creates the signature velvety Alfredo texture.
Parmesan cheese adds saltiness and umami, thickening the sauce naturally as it melts.
Olive oil helps cook the chicken evenly and prevents sticking.
Salt brings out the flavors of the sauce, pasta, and chicken.
Black pepper adds gentle heat and balance.
Italian seasoning provides subtle herb notes that complement the creamy base.
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli to the pot. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and slice into bite-sized pieces.
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the garlic. Cook briefly until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese gradually until the sauce thickens. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the sauce. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
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 approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25 minutes, making it ideal for a quick yet satisfying dinner.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Variations and Customizations
This dish is highly adaptable. Chicken thighs can replace breasts for a juicier texture. Shrimp is also an excellent alternative and cooks quickly in the same skillet.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce the butter slightly. Whole wheat pasta can be used for added fiber, though it will slightly change the texture.
Vegetable additions work well too. Mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes add depth and variety. For added heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes brings subtle warmth without overpowering the sauce.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is rich in protein and calcium, thanks to the chicken and Parmesan cheese. While it is an indulgent dish, pairing it with a lighter side or using smaller portions helps keep it balanced.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Perfect Sauce Texture
Keep the heat low once the cream is added to avoid separating.
Cheese Quality
Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
Pasta Timing
Cook pasta just to al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft when tossed with sauce.
Extra Creaminess
Reserve a small amount of pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
FAQs
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.
What pasta works best?
Fettuccine is classic, but penne and rotini are great alternatives.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It is best served fresh, but it can be reheated gently.
How do I keep the sauce from breaking?
Avoid high heat and stir continuously when adding cheese.
Can I add cheese other than Parmesan?
A small amount of Romano can be added for extra sharpness.
Is frozen broccoli acceptable?
Yes, thaw and drain it well before adding.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta.
How do I season the chicken well?
Season generously before cooking and adjust after slicing.
Can I add lemon?
A small squeeze of lemon brightens the sauce nicely.
What can I serve with this?
Garlic bread or a simple green salad pairs well.
Conclusion
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is a timeless, comforting dish that combines creamy indulgence with simple, familiar ingredients. It is easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and always satisfying. Whether for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is one you will want to keep close.
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