As the sun sets and the evening rush begins, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven where quick and satisfying meals come to life. Enter my Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo, a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken and crisp broccoli in a velvety Alfredo sauce, all ready in just 25 minutes! This recipe is not only a lifesaver for busy weeknights, but it’s also gluten-free with easy substitutions, ensuring that no one misses out on its comforting flavors. Perfectly balanced and irresistibly creamy, it’s a family favorite that highlights the joy of homemade cooking without the fuss. What’s your secret to a speedy and delicious dinner? Why Is This Alfredo Recipe So Special? Quick Preparation: In just 25 minutes, you’ll savor a homemade meal that beats take-out any day. Creamy Delight: The luscious Alfredo sauce clings to your pasta, chicken, and broccoli, creating a comfort food experience you won’t forget. Customizable: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets or personal tastes, making it perfect for every family member. Add veggies or swap proteins as you see fit! Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish guarantees happy faces around the table. For a similar easy recipe, check out my Cilantro Pesto Chicken Tenders. Versatile Sides: Pair with a fresh green salad or crusty garlic bread to elevate your dining experience! Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Ingredients For the Chicken and Pasta • Chicken Breast – Provides protein and texture. Substitute with turkey or tofu for dietary adjustments. • Pasta (Fettuccine recommended) – Serves as the base of the dish; gluten-free pasta can be substituted. For the Broccoli • Broccoli Florets – Adds color and nutrition. Frozen broccoli can be used; adjust cooking time. For the Sauce • Olive Oil – Used for sautéing chicken. Can be replaced with butter for added flavor. • Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free option. • Garlic – Enhances flavor; freshly minced garlic delivers the best aroma, but garlic powder can be a substitute. • Heavy Cream – Creates a luscious sauce; substitute with half-and-half or plant-based cream for a lighter version. • Parmesan Cheese – Provides umami and creaminess; nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan alternative. • Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste. Enjoy crafting your delicious Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Step 1: Prep Ingredients Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Next, trim broccoli into small florets and set aside. Finally, grate about a cup of Parmesan cheese and mince a few cloves of garlic. This prep work is essential for a smooth, quick cooking process for your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo. Step 2: Cook Pasta In a large pot, bring salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook until just shy of al dente, about 7-8 minutes. When there are three minutes left in the cooking time, toss in the broccoli florets to blanch them. Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli, ensuring to reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water for later use. Step 3: Cook Chicken In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the flavorful remnants in the pan to enhance the sauce. Step 4: Make Sauce In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Allow the cream to thicken slightly, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy, creating the luscious base for your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo. Step 5: Combine Everything Add the drained fettuccine and broccoli back into the skillet, along with the cooked chicken. Gently toss everything together until well coated with the creamy Alfredo sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This step ensures that every bite is perfectly enveloped in the rich sauce. Step 6: Serve Once combined, remove the skillet from heat and plate your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo. For an extra touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot to experience its creaminess at its best, and enjoy this comforting, satisfying meal! What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo When your plate is filled with velvety Alfredo goodness, there’s no need to stop the flavor journey; let’s elevate your meal even further! Garlic Bread: This crispy, buttery delight provides a perfect crunch that complements the creaminess of the Alfredo. It’s an invitation to savor every last bite of the sauce. Fresh Green Salad: A colorful mix of greens with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast. The acidity helps cut through the richness of the dish, balancing each forkful beautifully. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables offers a tasty, nutritious element. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile. Parmesan Crusted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears baked to perfection with a crispy Parmesan topping are a delightful addition. Their bright flavor and crunch will make your dinner feel even more special. Chardonnay: Pairing your meal with a chilled glass of Chardonnay elevates the dining experience. Its buttery notes complement the creamy sauce, tying the flavors together. Lemon Sorbet: End your meal on a refreshing note. This light dessert cleanses your palate and adds a zesty finish, leaving you satisfied yet eager for more. Each pairing invites you to explore new flavors and textures, creating an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the joy of home-cooked meals! How to Store and Freeze Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze chicken and broccoli separately to preserve texture. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s luscious consistency. Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Variations Feel free to get creative and put your personal touch on this delightful recipe! Dairy-Free: For a completely dairy-free option, use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and Parmesan. Gluten-Free: Swap traditional pasta for gluten-free pasta, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish without worry. Veggie-Packed: Boost nutrition by adding bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the mix. These veggies not only enhance the flavors but also add bright colors! Spicy Kick: Want to spice things up? Stir in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. Protein Swap: If you’re looking to switch things up, replace chicken with grilled shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious twist. Italian Flair: Add Italian seasoning or fresh basil to the sauce while simmering for that classic Italian flavor that brightens every bite. Lemon Zest: For a refreshing note, add some fresh lemon juice and zest before serving. It elevates the dish and adds a delightful zing. Creamy Spinach Artichoke: For a creamy spin, mix in thawed, chopped frozen spinach and canned artichoke hearts into your Alfredo, bringing a familiar dip flavor into a filling entrée! Feel free to explore these variations, and you’ll find a new favorite way to enjoy your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo! And if you’re ever in need of more quick meal ideas, check out my Chicken Ginger Rice Soup for an equally comforting dish. Expert Tips for Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Fresh Cheese Matters: Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and creaminess in your Alfredo sauce. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it can affect the texture. Avoid Overcooked Broccoli: To keep your broccoli vibrant and crisp, only blanch it for the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking. Overcooking leads to mushy veggies. Reserve Pasta Water: Keep a cup of the reserved pasta cooking water before draining. This starchy water can help adjust the sauce consistency, ensuring your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is perfectly creamy. Gentle Reheating: For leftovers, reheat gently on low heat while adding a splash of cream or milk. This helps restore the sauce’s richness without it seizing up. Easy Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh if you want a plant-based meal. This flexibility allows you to cater to different dietary needs while keeping the comfort intact. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo components are perfect for meal prep, helping you save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the chicken and broccoli, and even grate the Parmesan cheese up to 24 hours in advance; just keep them stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For the pasta, you can cook it and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply sauté the chicken, make the sauce, and combine everything with the prepped ingredients. This way, you’ll have a delightful homemade dinner with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you made it fresh! Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe FAQs How do I select the best broccoli for this recipe? Absolutely! When choosing broccoli, look for florets that are bright green and firm with tight buds. Avoid any that have yellowing or dark spots, as this indicates age. Fresh broccoli will enhance the dish’s flavor and nutritional value, making your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo even more delightful! How should I store leftovers of my Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo? To keep your dish fresh, allow it to cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Always remember to label the container with the date so you can keep track of it. When you reheat, do so gently on low heat, adding a bit of milk or cream to help bring back the saucy texture. Can I freeze my Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo? Absolutely! For freezing, make sure to separate the chicken and broccoli from the creamy sauce if you’re planning to keep the texture intact. Store them in airtight freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of cream to reestablish the sauce’s creamy essence. What are some common issues I might run into while making this dish? Very! A common issue is the sauce becoming too thick. If that happens, simply add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water gradually until you reach the desired consistency. Also, be cautious with garlic; overcooking it can lead to a bitter flavor. If you are short on time, pre-chopped garlic is a handy shortcut! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? For sure! If you or your loved ones have dietary restrictions, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Moreover, for a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with a plant-based cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. And if you have pets, especially dogs, remember that garlic is harmful to them, so ensure to keep this dish out of their reach! What kind of pasta can I substitute for fettuccine in this recipe? The more the merrier! If you don’t have fettuccine on hand or want to switch it up, you can use penne or rotini instead. These shapes hold the sauce beautifully, adding a fun twist to your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo while still delivering that comforting flavor you know and love. Indulgent Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo in 25 Minutes This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a quick, gluten-free meal ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken and Pasta1 pound Chicken Breast Can substitute with turkey or tofu.8 ounces Pasta (Fettuccine recommended) Gluten-free pasta can be substituted.For the Broccoli2 cups Broccoli Florets Frozen broccoli can be used; adjust cooking time.For the Sauce1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can be replaced with butter.2 tablespoons Butter Vegan butter can be used.3 cloves Garlic Freshly minced delivers the best aroma.1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with half-and-half or plant-based cream for lighter version.1 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan alternative.to taste Saltto taste Pepper Equipment Large Potlarge skilletcutting boardknifegratermeasuring cupsmeasuring spoons Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Trim broccoli into small florets.In a large pot, bring salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until just shy of al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Add the broccoli florets in the last 3 minutes. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta cooking water.In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly for 2-3 minutes. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan until smooth.Add the drained fettuccine and broccoli back into the skillet, along with the cooked chicken. Toss together until well coated with the sauce. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.Remove from heat, plate the Alfredo, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and additional Parmesan. Serve immediately while hot. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess. For long-term storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
