Ultimate Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli
A rich and creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken and nutritious broccoli, perfect for any comfort food lover.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine For a classic Alfredo base.
- 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh or frozen, both work wonderfully.
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Approximately 1 lb, tender and juicy chicken.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil To sauté and keep things healthy.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced The aromatic base to elevate the flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream For that velvety Alfredo sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Essential for that creamy texture.
- Salt and pepper To taste.
- Optional spices (red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning) For an extra layer of flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. While waiting, chop the chicken and broccoli and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped will streamline your cooking process.
Cooking
- Once the water is boiling, add the fettuccine. Simultaneously, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta for the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and add them to the skillet. Cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and consider adding red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Slice the chicken after it has rested, then drain the pasta and broccoli. Toss them into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, mixing until well-coated. Finally, plate up with sliced chicken on top and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For healthier alternatives, consider using whole grain pasta or substituting chicken with grilled shrimp or sautéed tofu for a vegetarian option. Serve with garlic bread or a light salad for a balanced meal.