Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine

Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine

Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm bowl of creamy chicken Alfredo with broccoli and fettuccine. This dish combines tender pieces of chicken breast, crisp broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a silky Alfredo sauce made with cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a restaurant-style dinner you can make at home in under 40 minutes!

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, but elegant enough for a special family dinner. 

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

• Ingredients

For the Chicken Alfredo:

• 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, cut into thin strips)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and depth)

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best texture)
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, adds richness)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta & Broccoli:

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta (about ¾ of a box)
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, blanched or steamed)
• 2 tablespoons pasta cooking water (reserved before draining)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

• Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (usually 9–11 minutes).
3. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the same pot.
4. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli. Set aside.

5. Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chicken strips, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
3. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
4. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

5. Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Add nutmeg (optional), salt, and pepper to taste.

6. Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.
2. Add the fettuccine pasta and broccoli.
3. Toss everything together until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

4. Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
2. Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh side salad.

3. What to Serve With Chicken Alfredo

• Garlic Bread – Crispy on the outside, soft and buttery inside.
• Caesar Salad – Light and refreshing to balance the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, zucchini, or asparagus.
• White Wine – A crisp glass of Chardonnay pairs perfectly.

• Pro Tips for the Best Alfredo Pasta

1. Use fresh Parmesan cheese – pre-grated cheese often has fillers that prevent smooth melting.
2. Don’t overcook broccoli – add it in the last few minutes so it stays green and slightly crisp.
3. Reserve pasta water – it helps loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
4. Add variety – mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes can make the dish even more flavorful.
5. Cook chicken separately first – this keeps it juicy and prevents it from turning rubbery.

6. FAQ

Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich. Mix 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon flour to thicken.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes. Store in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk.

Q: Can I use other pasta shapes?
A: Absolutely. Penne, linguine, or spaghetti work just as well.

Q: How do I make it healthier?
A: Use whole wheat pasta, light cream or Greek yogurt, and turkey bacon instead of chicken if desired. 

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine is the perfect balance of indulgence and comfort. With tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a luxurious Alfredo sauce, it’s a meal that will please the entire family. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare in under 40 minutes, making it great for weeknight dinners or special occasions.