Imagine a dish that combines the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, all perfectly nestled around silky fettuccine pasta. This Chicken Broccoli Pasta Alfredo isn't just a meal—it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dinner that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend chef looking to impress, this recipe promises restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add fettuccine pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, steam broccoli florets in a separate pot or steamer basket for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add shredded cooked chicken to the Alfredo sauce and stir to combine and heat through.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Gently fold in steamed broccoli florets, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 2-3 minutes to allow sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the smoothest, most flavorful sauce. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- For extra flavor, consider roasting your broccoli instead of steaming. A quick toss with olive oil and garlic before roasting can add depth to the dish.
- If your Alfredo sauce breaks or looks separated, lower the heat and whisk in a tablespoon of cold butter to help re-emulsify.
- Always reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water is a secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency and helping the sauce cling to the pasta.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use milk thickened with a small amount of cornstarch.
- Ensure your chicken is well-seasoned before adding it to the sauce. A quick sauté with salt, pepper, and herbs can elevate the overall flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 130mg
