Easy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo is a comforting and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. This creamy Alfredo sauce is made from scratch with simple ingredients, including butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Paired with tender chicken breast and crisp broccoli florets, this flavorful dish comes together in just minutes, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.
Table of Contents
Easy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo: Ingredients
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breast slices with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken slices in a single layer and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let the cream simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Add the Broccoli:
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
- Return the cooked chicken slices to the skillet, tossing them in the Alfredo sauce to coat evenly.
- Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Serve:
- Divide the Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo among serving plates.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and red pepper flakes for extra flavor and color, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips
- To save time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken instead of cooking the chicken breasts from scratch.
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or peas.
- For a lighter version of Alfredo sauce, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, although the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
Conclusion
Easy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo is a delicious and comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy homemade Alfredo sauce, tender chicken breast, and vibrant broccoli florets, this flavorful meal is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal in a hurry.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe? A1: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as spaghetti, penne, or linguine. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type and size of the pasta.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A2: While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce and cook the chicken and broccoli in advance. Store the components separately in the refrigerator and reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before combining and serving.
Q3: How should I store leftovers? A3: Store any leftover Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.