Description

Looking for the perfect easy dinner idea that’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor? This Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta delivers everything you crave in one pot — juicy seared chicken, tender broccoli, and penne pasta tossed in a rich, garlic-Parmesan Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a cozy weeknight dinner, this quick recipe is hearty, customizable, and better than takeout. It’s one of those easy food ideas you’ll return to again and again for a satisfying meal that pleases everyone.

Ingredients

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

0.5 teaspoon garlic powder

0.5 teaspoon paprika

10 oz penne or ziti pasta

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

Salt for pasta water

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic minced

1.5 cups heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

0.25 teaspoon nutmeg

0.25 cup reserved pasta water

Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. In the last 2–3 minutes, add broccoli florets to the pot. Drain both and reserve ¼ cup pasta water.

2. Pat chicken dry, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing.

3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes. Stir in Parmesan until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

4. Add pasta and broccoli to the sauce. Toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.

5. Add sliced chicken on top, letting it warm through.

6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and more Parmesan.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth, non-grainy sauce.

Avoid boiling the sauce after adding cheese to keep it creamy.

Reserve pasta water—it’s the secret to velvety Alfredo consistency.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

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

Keywords: easy dinner, creamy pasta, chicken recipes, Alfredo pasta, broccoli pasta