Chicken and broccoli Alfredo is a classic comfort food that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich, creamy Alfredo sauce tossed with pasta. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make at home. If you’ve ever wondered how to make chicken and broccoli Alfredo that’s restaurant-quality but simple enough for your kitchen, you’re in the right place!
Let’s break down the process step-by-step, share some tips, and give you a foolproof recipe to make this creamy dish your family will love.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
Here’s a handy list of the main ingredients you’ll need to make chicken and broccoli Alfredo from scratch:
– Pasta: Fettuccine is traditional, but rotini, penne, or shells work great too.
– Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, cut into thin slices or bite-sized pieces.
– Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
– Olive oil and butter: For cooking chicken and making the sauce base.
– All-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce.
– Chicken broth: Adds flavor and lightens the sauce.
– Whole milk and heavy cream: For that creamy, luscious texture.
– Garlic powder and Italian seasoning: For seasoning the sauce.
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient that makes Alfredo sauce rich and flavorful.
– Salt and pepper: To taste.
Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish and a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the sauce flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions. In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water so they cook just until tender but still bright green. Drain both and set aside, reserving a little pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute until lightly browned to form a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Add heavy cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Gently toss everything together to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your chicken and broccoli Alfredo hot, topped with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
– Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and gives a richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.
– Don’t overcook the broccoli: Adding it in the last few minutes of pasta cooking keeps it tender-crisp and vibrant.
– Make it lighter: Use a mix of milk and cream or substitute half-and-half to reduce heaviness without sacrificing creaminess.
– One-pan option: Some recipes let you cook chicken and make sauce in the same skillet, saving cleanup and time.
– Add a little nutmeg: A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
– Customize: Add other veggies like spinach or peas, or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Variations to Try
– Baked Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Casserole: Mix cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli, and Alfredo sauce in a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and bake until bubbly and golden brown for a comforting twist.
– Lightened Alfredo: Use more chicken broth and milk, less cream, and add extra garlic and herbs for flavor without the extra calories.
– Cream Cheese Addition: Stir in cream cheese for an ultra-thick and tangy sauce that kids love.
Chicken and broccoli Alfredo is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make with pantry staples and fresh ingredients. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with protein and veggies, making it a balanced meal you can whip up in about 30 minutes.
Give this recipe a try tonight and enjoy a comforting dinner that feels like a treat but is simple enough for any night of the week!
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with chicken and broccoli, this Alfredo recipe is a delicious way to bring family and friends together around the dinner table. Enjoy!