simple chicken and broccoli alfredo recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best simple chicken and broccoli alfredo recipe

I’m so excited to share this simple chicken and broccoli alfredo recipe with you all. As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for easy and delicious meals that my family will love.

This recipe checks all the boxes – it’s quick to make, packed with nutrients, and tastes amazing. Plus, it’s a great way to get some extra veggies in my kids’ tummies without them even noticing.

My husband and kids are huge fans of this dish, and it’s become a staple in our household. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to customize to your taste preferences – just add or subtract ingredients as you see fit. The key to making this recipe shine is using high-quality ingredients, like fresh broccoli and real parmesan cheese.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with the sauce either – add some garlic or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion – it’s that versatile!

And let’s not forget about the health benefits – this recipe is loaded with protein, calcium, and vitamins from the broccoli and cheese. My kids love helping me cook this meal too – it’s a great way to spend quality time together while teaching them about cooking basics.

Simple Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

4.9 from 1343 votes

This creamy chicken and broccoli alfredo is a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. Tender chicken and bright broccoli are tossed in a rich homemade alfredo sauce and served over pasta.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 650 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Vegetables

8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder

For the Alfredo Sauce

2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
1/8 tsp nutmeg (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water.
4Drain the pasta and broccoli together in a colander and set aside.
5While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
6Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
7Add the chicken in a single layer and cook without stirring for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown on one side, then stir and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
8Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.
9In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
10Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
11Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
12Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
13Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using.
14Stir in the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli, tossing gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
15Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through, then serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 650 kcal🧈Total Fat: 38g💛Saturated Fat: 20g❤️Cholesterol: 165mg🧂Sodium: 820mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan to 1/2 cup. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Leftovers keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Simple Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Works

This simple chicken and broccoli alfredo recipe has become a go-to in our household for its ease of preparation and delicious flavor.

Whether you’re serving it at home or taking it to a potluck dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Plus, with its versatility in terms of ingredients and serving ideas, there’s no reason not to give it a try tonight!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

The best type of pasta for this recipe is fettuccine or linguine – they have a flat shape that holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly.

Q: Can I substitute chicken with another protein source?

Yes, you can definitely swap out chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu if you prefer.

Q: Do I need to use real parmesan cheese or can I use a vegan alternative?

Real parmesan cheese is ideal for this recipe, but you can also use a vegan alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick, make sure to reserve some of the pasta water before draining it and then add it to the sauce as needed.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and serve the dish fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

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