Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a weeknight dinner classic that’s both comforting and surprisingly easy to make. Tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce come together with pasta to create a family-friendly meal everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a cozy dinner, this dish checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a reason Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a dinner staple in so many homes. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your rotation:

• One-pan comfort: It’s creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying—all in one dish.
• Quick and simple: Done in under 30 minutes with easy-to-find ingredients.
• Balanced: You get protein, veggies, and carbs in every bite.
• Kid-approved: Even picky eaters love the creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta.
• Perfect for leftovers: It reheats like a dream, making it great for meal prep.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect Chicken Broccoli Alfredo:

Main Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Alfredo Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but enhances flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.

Step 2: Sauté the chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Steam or boil the broccoli

While the chicken is cooking, steam the broccoli until just tender (about 3–4 minutes) or boil it briefly in salted water. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, bringing it to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Melt in the cheese

Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thick. Add black pepper and nutmeg if using. Stir until fully combined.

Step 6: Combine everything

Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 7: Serve hot

Serve the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo hot, topped with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for a delicious finishing touch.

Pro Tips and Variations

Pro Tips:

• Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and gives the sauce a richer flavor.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli: Slightly crisp-tender is perfect for contrast.
• Reserve pasta water: It’s great for loosening the sauce without watering it down.
• Taste as you go: Adjust salt and pepper to match your preference.

Variations:

• Add mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms bring umami and a meaty texture.
• Swap proteins: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken.
• Low-carb option: Serve over spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are a few delicious ways to serve it:

• With garlic bread: The crispy, buttery texture is perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
• Side salad: A crisp Caesar or garden salad balances the richness of the Alfredo.
• With white wine: A glass of Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• As leftovers: Pack it for lunch—it reheats perfectly in the microwave.

Fancy it up: Garnish with parsley or shaved Parmesan for a dinner-party feel.

Conclusion

Creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is one of those go-to meals that feels fancy but is easy enough for any night of the week. It’s comfort food with a healthy twist, thanks to the broccoli and with its rich Alfredo sauce, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a family or making something special for yourself, this dish never disappoints.

FAQs

What to add to chicken Alfredo to make it taste better?

Try adding sautéed onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or a splash of lemon juice for extra depth and brightness.

What can I add to Alfredo sauce?

Fresh herbs like basil or parsley, red pepper flakes, or a touch of cream cheese can elevate your Alfredo sauce.

Can I add milk to Alfredo sauce?

Yes, but it’s best combined with cream for richness. Milk alone can thin out the texture too much.

Can mozzarella cheese be used in Alfredo sauce?

You can add a small amount for extra creaminess, but Parmesan should remain the primary cheese for flavor.

Can you put spinach in chicken Alfredo?

Absolutely! Fresh spinach wilts beautifully into the hot sauce and adds nutrition and color.