Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe to Try Tonight

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo made simple! Discover a quick, flavorful recipe perfect for a cozy dinner tonight. The Chicken Broccoli Alfredo combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re craving comfort food or something impressive yet easy, this dish hits the spot with its rich texture and vibrant colors, making your dinner both delightful and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortlessly delicious: Minimal prep and simple ingredients come together for a deeply satisfying dinner.
• Balanced flavors: The creamy sauce complements the savory chicken and fresh broccoli perfectly.
• Family-friendly: This recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike, making weeknight meals stress-free.
• Versatile and adaptable: Easily customize it to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
• Comfort food with a fresh twist: Adds a healthful touch of green while still feeling indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To get started with this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo recipe, you’ll need just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the creamy texture, vibrant taste, and colorful appeal of the dish.

• Boneless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, these form the protein base for the dish.
• Fresh broccoli florets: Add a crisp texture and bright color that balances the richness.
• Heavy cream: The secret to a smooth, velvety Alfredo sauce that coats everything beautifully.
• Butter and garlic: Combine to build a fragrant, savory flavor foundation.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings sharpness and depth to the sauce for that classic Alfredo taste.
• Fettuccine or pasta of choice: Perfect for soaking up every bit of the luscious sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.

Variations for Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own! The Chicken Broccoli Alfredo easily lends itself to tweaks and swaps based on your taste or what’s in the pantry.

• Protein swaps: Use shrimp, turkey, or even crispy tofu in place of chicken for a twist.
• Dairy-free version: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
• Add more veggies: Toss in mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
• Spicy kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning for a zesty edge.
• Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta: Adjust type of noodles to suit dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

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How to Make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a bit of olive oil or butter, then cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Once done, slice into bite-size pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Steam the broccoli

While the chicken cooks, steam the broccoli florets until they are bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes. You want some bite left for texture contrast in the dish.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Season with a bit of salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine everything

Cook your favorite pasta according to package directions, then drain and return to pot. Toss the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli into the pasta. Pour the creamy Alfredo sauce over the mixture, stirring gently until everything is evenly coated and heated through.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

Serve your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired. It’s comfort food that feels fancy, ready in under 30 minutes!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Keep it juicy by cooking until just done and slicing after resting.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that affect melting and flavor.
• Reserve pasta water: Stir in a splash if your sauce needs loosening for perfect consistency.
• Cook broccoli al dente: Keeps it vibrant and adds a lovely contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Simmer sauce gently: Avoid boiling to prevent separation and maintain that creamy texture.

How to Serve Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

Garnishes

Top with freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a splash of color and freshness. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a dash of cracked black pepper can elevate the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread to mop up the Alfredo sauce – both complement the richness perfectly without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls with a lemon wedge on the side for a citrus lift, or plate the pasta alongside roasted cherry tomatoes and toasted pine nuts for added texture and flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Chicken Broccoli Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but for best results, freeze the cooked chicken and broccoli separately from the sauce and pasta to avoid texture changes. Combine and reheat when ready.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess and prevent the sauce from drying out or separating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well and can be steamed or microwaved before adding, but fresh broccoli tends to retain better texture and color.

What type of pasta is best for Chicken Broccoli Alfredo?

Traditional fettuccine is ideal due to its wide, flat shape that holds the sauce nicely, but penne, linguine, or even rotini can also work well.

Is Chicken Broccoli Alfredo healthy?

While creamy and indulgent, incorporating broccoli adds fiber and nutrients, and using lean chicken provides good protein, balancing indulgence with nutrition.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with mushrooms or another vegetable protein, and keep the sauce and broccoli as usual for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

How do I thicken the Alfredo sauce if it’s too thin?

Add more Parmesan cheese gradually or simmer the sauce a bit longer over low heat until it reaches the desired thickness, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo recipe is the perfect way to bring comfort, color, and creamy indulgence to your dinner table without the fuss. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, give it a try — it’s guaranteed to become one of your go-to favorites that everyone raves about!

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