Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine

Name: Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb diced chicken breast; 12 oz fettuccine; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves minced garlic; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: November 6, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, this dish comes together in no time.
Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce adds a depth of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with broccoli, this recipe offers a healthy dose of vegetables alongside comforting pasta.
Versatile: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week—it’s just as delicious reheated!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes all the difference when preparing Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine. Gather these essentials to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for boiling the fettuccine to the perfect al dente texture.
Skillet: Ideal for sautéing the chicken and creating the creamy sauce simultaneously.
Cutting board: A safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
Chef’s knife: A good-quality knife ensures efficient and precise cutting.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Alfredo Sauce

1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta and Broccoli

12 oz fettuccine
2 cups broccoli florets

For Garnish (optional)

Chopped parsley, for serving

How to Make Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to blanch them.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add diced chicken breast, cooking until browned and no longer pink in the center—about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Reduce heat to low; pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously.
Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Drain fettuccine and broccoli; add them directly into the skillet with the sauce.
Toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve

Plate your creamy chicken alfredo pasta garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine

Serving Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with Garlic Bread

Crunchy Delight: Serve warm, toasted garlic bread on the side for a crispy texture that complements the creamy pasta.

Add a Fresh Salad

Refreshing Mix: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the dish’s richness.

Top with Fresh Herbs

Herbaceous Flavor: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a fresh burst of flavor and color that brightens the plate.

Include Extra Veggies

Nutritious Boost: Consider adding steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach as an additional vegetable option to enhance the dish’s nutritional value.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine

Achieving the perfect Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to help you master this dish.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh broccoli and high-quality chicken for better flavor and texture.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your fettuccine is cooked al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
Add Cheese Gradually: Gradually add cheese to the sauce while stirring. This helps achieve a smooth, creamy consistency without clumping.
Season Well: Taste your sauce before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Don’t Overcook Chicken: Cook chicken just until it’s no longer pink. Overcooking can lead to dry meat, which detracts from the dish’s overall appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine

Complementing your Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine with the right side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

Steamed Vegetables: A mix of seasonal steamed veggies adds color and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
Caprese Salad: Combine fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing taste contrast.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned simply can provide a crunchy texture alongside your creamy pasta.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan and croutons, enhancing your meal’s flavor profile.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a comforting side that pairs well with rich Alfredo sauce.
Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini slices add a smoky flavor that complements the creaminess of the pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Using low-quality pasta – Not all fettuccine is created equal. Opt for fresh or high-quality dried fettuccine for better texture and flavor.
Overcooking the broccoli – Broccoli should be tender yet crisp. Cook it just until vibrant green to maintain its texture and nutritional value.
Skipping the garlic – Garlic adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it; sauté it until fragrant before adding other ingredients for a richer taste.
Not seasoning properly – A pinch of salt can elevate your dish. Be sure to season each layer, from the chicken to the sauce.
Rushing the sauce preparation – Take your time when making the creamy sauce. Allow ingredients to meld properly for a richer flavor.
Ignoring the resting time – Letting your dish sit briefly before serving allows flavors to develop more fully. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and reheat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval.
Stovetop: In a saucepan over medium heat, add a splash of broth or cream. Stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free fettuccine made from rice or chickpeas instead of traditional pasta. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like peas, spinach, or bell peppers to enhance nutrition and flavor.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

A mixture of milk and cornstarch can create a lighter sauce. Alternatively, you can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

How long does Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine last in the fridge?

It lasts up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine is not only rich and satisfying but also versatile enough to adapt based on your preferences. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins. Give this delicious recipe a try; it’s bound to become a family favorite!

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