Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

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Rich, savory, and perfectly creamy, this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish. Tender grilled chicken breast, vibrant broccoli florets, and al dente fettuccine noodles are smothered in a homemade garlic parmesan cream sauce. It’s a meal that looks impressive but comes together effortlessly, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Every bite delivers a satisfying balance of protein, veggies, and luscious sauce. The contrast between the juicy chicken and crisp-tender broccoli, all coated in creamy Alfredo, is nothing short of addictive. Plus, it’s a one-pan stunner that feels indulgent yet comforting—the kind of recipe you’ll crave again and again.


Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

  • Better Than Takeout: Homemade Alfredo sauce with fresh garlic and real parmesan brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen.
  • Quick & Satisfying: Ready in under 40 minutes from start to finish.
  • One-Pan Friendly: Less cleanup, more creamy goodness.
  • Versatile & Family-Friendly: Great for picky eaters and easy to adapt with gluten-free pasta or extra veggies.
  • Make-Ahead Option: The sauce reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Here’s what you’ll need to make your creamy pasta dreams come true:

  • Large Sauté Pan or Skillet: Essential for browning chicken and building your sauce directly in the pan. A deep skillet prevents splashes and ensures room for tossing the pasta.
  • Medium Saucepot: For boiling pasta and blanching the broccoli to tender perfection.
  • Tongs or Pasta Spoon: Makes it easier to toss and coat the pasta in Alfredo sauce.
  • Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: For slicing the chicken breast evenly and chopping broccoli florets.
  • Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth, lump-free sauce.

Each tool plays a crucial role in getting the textures right and keeping the process seamless. Investing in the right equipment makes this dish even more enjoyable to prepare.


Ingredients for the Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Each ingredient adds depth and balance to the dish. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Lean protein that gets seared until golden and juicy.
  • Fettuccine Pasta – Wide noodles that hold the rich Alfredo sauce beautifully.
  • Fresh Broccoli Florets – Adds vibrant color, crunch, and a nutritional boost.
  • Heavy Cream – The base for the creamy sauce, giving it that rich texture.
  • Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – For nutty, salty flavor that thickens and enriches the sauce.
  • Garlic (minced) – Infuses the sauce with savory depth.
  • Butter – Used to cook the garlic and start the sauce with a velvety base.
  • Olive Oil – Helps brown the chicken evenly without sticking.
  • Salt & Black Pepper – For seasoning and balance.
  • Pasta Water (reserved) – Helps loosen and emulsify the Alfredo sauce for a silky consistency.
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How To Make the Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice.

Step 2: Boil Pasta & Broccoli

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook fettuccine until al dente. Add broccoli during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then add parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Add reserved pasta water gradually to adjust thickness.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss gently to coat in the sauce. Add sliced chicken back to the pan and warm through.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately with extra parmesan and cracked black pepper on top.


How to Serve and Store Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

To serve, plate the pasta in shallow bowls and top with sliced chicken and a sprinkle of extra parmesan or a touch of crushed red pepper for heat. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad.

For storing, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the silky sauce texture. Avoid microwaving too long, as it may dry out the chicken.


Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free fettuccine or your favorite pasta alternative. Double-check that your parmesan and any other packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken or any leftover grilled chicken can save you time. Just slice and add it during the final toss with the sauce.

What other veggies can I use besides broccoli?

Great swaps include spinach, asparagus tips, or peas. Just make sure they’re lightly blanched or sautéed so they stay tender-crisp.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it a day ahead and store it in a sealed container in the fridge. Reheat slowly on the stovetop while stirring.

How do I keep Alfredo sauce from curdling?

Avoid boiling it. Simmer on low and add parmesan gradually while stirring to keep it smooth.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh. While you can freeze leftovers, the texture of the cream sauce may change when thawed.


Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta hit the spot, you’ll love these other hearty favorites from the site:

These recipes are perfect if you’re in the mood for cozy, creamy pasta dishes with a little something extra.


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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest pasta board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes? Maybe swapped broccoli for spinach?

I love hearing how others customize these recipes. And if you’ve got questions—drop them below!


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Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta


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  • Author: Kate Walton
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is a comforting, one-pan dinner featuring tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and fettuccine tossed in a rich garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or cozy weekend treat. Keywords: chicken alfredo, broccoli pasta, creamy pasta recipe, easy alfredo, one-pan dinner.


Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts

12 oz fettuccine pasta

3 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 ½ cups heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp butter

1 tbsp olive oil

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

1 cup reserved pasta water


Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove and slice.

2. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook fettuccine until al dente. During the last 2–3 minutes, add broccoli. Drain and reserve 1 cup of the pasta water.

3. In the skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Add parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted. Gradually add reserved pasta water until sauce reaches desired consistency.

5. Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli into the sauce. Stir gently until coated. Return sliced chicken to the skillet and heat through.

6. Serve hot, topped with extra parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper if desired.

Notes

Use freshly grated parmesan for a smoother, more flavorful sauce.

Simmer the sauce gently—never boil it—to prevent curdling.

Save some pasta water—it helps emulsify and loosen the sauce naturally.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 720
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 39g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 41g
  • Cholesterol: 160mg

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