Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

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If you’re craving something cozy, creamy, and downright satisfying, Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is your answer. This dish is the perfect combination of tender golden-seared chicken, lightly steamed broccoli, and a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. It strikes that ideal balance between comfort food and weeknight dinner ease.

Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping lunch for the week, or whipping up a romantic dinner, this meal delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. The creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce brings everything together in one crave-worthy bowl. Each bite feels like a warm hug — and the best part? It all comes together in under 40 minutes.

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Why You’ll Love This Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

• It’s a full meal in one bowl. You’ve got protein, veggies, and carbs all covered.
• Restaurant-level flavor at home. Creamy, cheesy, garlicky goodness with golden chicken? Yes, please.
• Perfect for weeknights. Fast prep, easy cleanup, and family-approved.
• Customizable. Swap pasta shapes, use different veggies, or lighten it up with milk instead of cream.
• Make-ahead friendly. Reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner the next day.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, Plus the Importance of Each Tool)

Before diving into this delicious Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta, having the right tools on hand can make the process faster, smoother, and more enjoyable.

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is where the magic happens—cooking the chicken and building your Alfredo sauce. A nonstick or stainless-steel skillet with tall sides is best to contain all the ingredients without overflow.
• Large Pot: You’ll need this to boil the pasta and briefly blanch the broccoli. Choose a pot big enough so the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: For slicing chicken breasts cleanly and chopping garlic or parsley with precision.
• Cutting Board: A spacious cutting surface helps keep things tidy and safe while prepping ingredients.
• Tongs or Spatula: Ideal for flipping the chicken without tearing it. Tongs also come in handy when tossing the pasta with the sauce.
• Colander or Strainer: Essential for draining the pasta and broccoli efficiently.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate portions of cream, cheese, and seasoning.

Having these tools prepped before you start will streamline your cooking process and let you focus on perfecting the flavors.

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Preparation Tips

• Start with room temperature chicken: Let the chicken sit out for 15 minutes before cooking. It sears more evenly and stays juicy.
• Salt your pasta water well: This is your first chance to infuse the pasta with flavor—don’t skip it.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli: A quick 2–3 minute blanch is all it needs. You want vibrant green, tender-crisp florets.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese can make your sauce grainy. Freshly grated melts smoothly and tastes better.
• Reserve pasta water: A splash can help thin the Alfredo sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
• Cook chicken in batches if needed: Crowding the pan leads to steaming, not searing. Give each piece room to brown.
• Warm your cream: Cold cream can curdle when added to a hot pan. Let it sit out for a few minutes or warm it slightly.

Taking a few extra minutes to prepare thoughtfully will elevate your dish from good to unforgettable.

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Ingredients for This Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this creamy, comforting dish to life:

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra color and flavor)

For the Pasta & Broccoli:

• 10 oz (about 3 cups) penne or ziti pasta
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• Salt, for pasta water

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, adds depth)
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water (as needed to loosen sauce)

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh chopped parsley
• Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

Everything in this list is common and easily found in most kitchens, making this recipe an accessible go-to meal whenever you’re craving something rich and satisfying.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
In the last 2–3 minutes of pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water.
Drain both the pasta and broccoli together and set aside. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water for later.

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Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temp of 165°F).
Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.

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Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and add butter.
Once melted, stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly.
Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes, then gradually add the Parmesan cheese.
Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using.
If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water.

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Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.
Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Top with sliced chicken and let it warm through for 1–2 minutes.

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Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the pasta into serving bowls.
Top with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy immediately while the sauce is silky and luscious.

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Notes

• Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese gives your Alfredo sauce that silky, restaurant-quality texture.
• Blanch, don’t boil the broccoli: Add it to the pasta water in the last few minutes of cooking. This keeps it tender yet vibrant and avoids overcooking.
• Rest the chicken: After searing, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy and flavorful.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the chicken: This is one of the most common pitfalls. Make sure your skillet is hot enough for a good sear, and avoid flipping too often. Use a meat thermometer if needed to ensure it hits 165°F without drying out.
• Adding cold cream to a hot pan: Doing this can cause the sauce to split. Either warm the cream slightly or remove the pan from heat briefly before adding it.
• Skipping the pasta water: A spoonful of reserved pasta water helps emulsify and smooth out the Alfredo sauce, making it cling perfectly to your pasta.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Broccoli should be bright green and tender-crisp—not mushy. Just a quick blanch will do.
• Using low-fat substitutes without adjustments: If you try to lighten the sauce with milk instead of cream, you may need to add a thickener like a roux or extra cheese to keep the texture creamy.
• Neglecting to season each layer: Season your pasta water, the chicken, and the sauce. Layered seasoning ensures a well-rounded, flavorful dish.
• Boiling the sauce after adding cheese: High heat can cause the cheese to seize and turn grainy. Keep the heat low while melting in the Parmesan.
• Crowding the chicken in the pan: This causes steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if needed to get that perfect golden crust.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you serve a flawless, creamy, and crave-worthy Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta every single time.

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What to Serve With Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?

While this pasta dish is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a complementary side can enhance the overall experience. Think freshness, texture contrast, or a little acidity to cut through the creamy richness.

Here are 8 Recommendations:

1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside, soft and buttery on the inside—garlic bread is a classic companion to soak up every last drop of Alfredo sauce.

2. Simple Arugula Salad

Peppery arugula tossed with lemon juice, olive oil, and shaved Parmesan provides a refreshing, slightly bitter contrast to the creamy pasta.

3. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

Bursting with sweetness and acidity, roasted tomatoes brighten up the plate beautifully.

4. Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine, creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and shaved Parmesan—it complements the flavors without overpowering them.

5. Grilled Asparagus

Earthy and crisp-tender, asparagus adds green to your plate and balances the richness of Alfredo.

6. Parmesan Zucchini Chips

Baked or air-fried zucchini rounds with Parmesan make for a crunchy, cheesy side that’s low-effort and fun.

7. Chilled White Wine

A crisp glass of Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay works wonders with the creamy sauce and tender chicken.

8. Lemon Wedges on the Side

Not a full dish, but a squeeze of lemon over the pasta before serving adds brightness and cuts the richness instantly.

Each of these sides brings something unique to the table and rounds out the Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for an even more satisfying meal.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy Alfredo sauce may thicken slightly when chilled, but it reheats well with a splash of milk or broth.

Reheating Tips:

• Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a bit of cream, milk, or reserved pasta water to bring back the saucy texture.
• You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each to avoid overheating.
• Avoid high heat as it may cause the sauce to split.

Freezing Not Recommended:
Due to the heavy cream and cheese in the Alfredo sauce, this dish doesn’t freeze well—the texture becomes grainy when thawed and reheated.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)

• Calories: 620 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Serving Size: 1¼ to 1½ cups

Note: These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, fettuccine, rotini, or even spaghetti work great. Just adjust cooking time based on the shape and texture.

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2. Can I use milk instead of cream in the Alfredo sauce?

You can substitute whole milk, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. To thicken, consider adding a teaspoon of flour or a bit of cream cheese.

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3. How do I keep the sauce from becoming grainy?

Use freshly grated Parmesan and avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cheese. Gentle heat is key.

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4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Simply skip the chicken or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or pan-seared tofu for a hearty alternative.

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5. Can I prepare Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta ahead of time?

You can make it a few hours in advance. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

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6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but it can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free pasta and ensuring all other ingredients (like spices and cheese) are gluten-free.

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7. How can I add more flavor to the chicken?

Marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. This gives it a deeper flavor profile.

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8. What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

Just stir in a splash of reserved pasta water or warm milk. The starch in pasta water helps smooth out and stretch the sauce without thinning the flavor.

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Conclusion

Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the kind of dish that delivers comfort, flavor, and nourishment all in one plate. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner after a long day or looking for a dish that feels indulgent without being complicated, this creamy pasta hits every note. It’s flexible, family-friendly, and consistently delicious. With the right balance of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli, it’s sure to earn a regular spot in your recipe rotation.

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