Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe
Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is the perfect comfort food that brings together tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and pasta tossed in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce. This dish strikes a balance between indulgence and nutrition, making it ideal for a family dinner or even a quick weeknight meal. The combination of creamy sauce and fresh broccoli not only adds flavour but also provides a wholesome touch that turns this classic pasta into a satisfying and well rounded dish.
What makes this recipe so appealing is its versatility and ease. With just a handful of ingredients and a little time in the kitchen, you can recreate restaurant quality pasta at home without the hassle. The Alfredo sauce, enhanced with cream cheese and Parmesan, coats every strand of pasta beautifully, while the chicken and broccoli add protein and freshness. Whether you are cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its creamy texture and comforting flavours.
Why You Need This Recipe
This Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli recipe is more than just a pasta dish it is a complete meal in one bowl. The creamy Alfredo sauce delivers rich, comforting flavours, while the chicken provides satisfying protein and the broccoli adds freshness and nutrients. Together, they create a balanced dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Another reason you will love this recipe is how simple and versatile it is. It can be prepared quickly on busy weeknights but also looks elegant enough for special occasions. You can customize it with your favorite pasta, add extra vegetables, or adjust the creaminess to your liking. It is a reliable recipe that always comes out delicious, making it a favorite for both beginners and seasoned home cooks.
A handful of simple, fresh ingredients come together to make this Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli both delicious and nourishing.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breast | 2 medium (about 1 lb) | 500 |
| Broccoli florets | 2 cups | 60 |
| Fettuccine pasta | 12 oz | 600 |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | 800 |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz | 400 |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 1 cup | 430 |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 15 |
| Butter | 3 tbsp | 300 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | To taste | 0 |
Approximate Calories (per serving, 4 servings): 780–820
How to Prepare
Start by cooking the fettuccine pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them until golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and slice it into strips. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and saute the minced garlic until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the cream cheese and allow it to melt, creating a smooth and creamy base. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and whisk gently until the sauce thickens and coats the spoon.
Next, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are just tender and bright green, then fold them into the sauce along with the cooked pasta and sliced chicken. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and the broccoli and chicken are well combined with the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with extra salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired, and enjoy a restaurant quality meal right from your own kitchen.
Pro Tips
To make your Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli absolutely perfect, keep these tips in mind. First, always cook the pasta until just al dente because it will continue to absorb the sauce once combined, giving you a better texture. When cooking the chicken, avoid overcooking as it can become dry searing it on medium heat ensures it stays juicy and tender.
For the sauce, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre shredded as it melts more smoothly and adds richer flavour. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it without losing creaminess. To keep the broccoli bright and crisp, blanch it quickly in boiling water and then shock it in cold water before adding it to the sauce. Finally, serve immediately for the best taste and texture, as Alfredo sauce thickens as it cools.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is hearty on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and toppings can elevate the whole dining experience. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing complement to the rich Alfredo sauce, while warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up every bit of that creamy goodness. If you enjoy a little variety, a side of roasted vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers also pairs beautifully with this dish.
When it comes to toppings, a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan is always a classic choice. For extra flavour, add a touch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or drizzle a little olive oil infused with herbs for a gourmet touch. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil not only adds color but also brightens up the flavours. With these pairings and toppings, your Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli will feel complete and restaurant worthy.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary evening into something special. With its rich and velvety sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, it brings together comfort and nourishment in every bite. It is simple enough to prepare on busy weeknights yet impressive enough to serve for family gatherings or dinner guests.
This dish proves that homemade meals can be both satisfying and elegant without requiring complicated steps. Whether you enjoy it with a side salad, garlic bread, or just on its own, this recipe will quickly become a favourite at your table. Try it once, and you will keep coming back to its comforting flavours and restaurant quality appeal.
