Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

This creamy chicken broccoli alfredo pasta recipe is the ultimate answer when you crave a quick, comforting meal with a restaurant quality finish. With a hands on prep time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 45 to 60 minutes, you can enjoy a hearty, homemade dinner in under an hour. The combination of silky alfredo sauce, tender pasta, juicy chicken, and fresh broccoli brings a crowd pleasing, comforting experience to your table every time.

My family always requests this creamy chicken broccoli alfredo pasta when we want a reliable, crowd friendly dinner solution. Over the years, I have perfected the alfredo sauce by slowly whisking in freshly grated Parmesan, which gives a silky texture without any graininess. The velvety sauce, paired with lightly cooked broccoli and juicy chicken, has made this recipe a staple in our home, especially during cozy evenings or when we want something that feels special but comes together quickly with ingredients we almost always have on hand.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed): Lean protein source that makes the dish filling, and using leftovers saves prep time; rotisserie chicken or even cooked turkey can substitute in a pinch
• Fettuccine pasta (or pasta of choice): Cooks up al dente and carries the creamy sauce beautifully; gluten free variants work well if needed
• Fresh broccoli florets: Adds color, slight crunch, and balances the creaminess; cauliflower or other green veggies make good swaps
• Butter: Provides richness and is essential for sautéing the garlic for savory flavor
• Fresh garlic cloves (minced): Adds depth and aroma; use jarred if needed but fresh is best
• Heavy cream: Essential for the classic alfredo texture; half and half or evaporated milk can be used for a lighter version
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Gives sharp, salty complexity and thickens the sauce; always grate fresh if possible for best melting
• Salt: Accentuates flavors throughout the dish
• Black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and earthy undertone
• Italian seasoning: Infuses the sauce with classic herbaceous notes
• Extra virgin olive oil: Used to warm chicken gently and add healthy fats; avocado oil can work as a substitute

How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Warm the Chicken for Juicy Flavor:

Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Place the cooked chicken breast into the pan and gently heat for three to four minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through and slightly golden at the edges. Remove and cover to lock in moisture.

Sauté the Garlic for Fragrant Richness:

Without cleaning the skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for one minute, just until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden but not browned, which could add bitterness.

Simmer Cream and Seasonings Until Velvety:

Slowly pour in the heavy cream, scraping up any brown bits with a spatula. Immediately add the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Reduce heat slightly and bubble the mixture gently for five minutes, stirring often to prevent scorching, until cream thickens and coats the spoon.

Stir in Parmesan for Silky Alfredo Sauce:

Gradually add the grated Parmesan while stirring constantly. Keep stirring for three minutes until the sauce is thick, glossy, and all cheese has melted in. Taste and add extra seasoning if needed. Do not boil after adding cheese to avoid a grainy sauce.

Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Chicken:

Cook the fettuccine until just al dente and steam broccoli until bright green and crisp tender. Add pasta, broccoli, and reserved chicken into the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything in sauce and heat through for two additional minutes.

Finish and Serve for Maximum Creaminess:

Serve immediately, spooning extra sauce over tops and garnishing with extra Parmesan or black pepper. Let the dish sit for three minutes if desired for the sauce to thicken and cling to every noodle before plating.

I still remember the moment my kids asked for seconds and we ended up with nothing left but a sparkling clean pan. Experimenting with slowly melting the cheese into the cream made all the difference for achieving that signature velvety texture. Finding that happy balance between creamy sauce and crisp veggies turned this recipe into a constant family favorite at our table.

Smart Swaps and Variations

You can easily adjust this creamy chicken broccoli alfredo pasta recipe to suit various needs or preferences. Swap fettuccine for penne, rotini, or even gluten free noodles for those who need dietary modifications. For a dairy free option, coconut cream and vegan Parmesan work surprisingly well, while protein swaps like shrimp or leftover rotisserie chicken keep things simple and fast. Sun dried tomatoes or spinach bring extra flavor and color, and using half and half instead of cream lightens the dish for a different feel.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container, separating pasta and sauce for best texture, and refrigerate for up to three to four days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently in a skillet over medium low heat, stirring until the sauce regains its silkiness. For longer storage, freeze individual or family size portions in freezer safe containers for up to two months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator for a nearly effortless weeknight dinner.

What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp arugula salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies for a vibrant pop of color and balance. For special occasions, fresh roasted asparagus or green beans add welcome acidity and texture, while a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or mineral sparkling water complements the richness perfectly. Serve family style or plate individually with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a restaurant worthy experience at home.

Nutritional Benefits

This creamy chicken broccoli alfredo pasta delivers substantial nutrition alongside classic comfort. Lean chicken breast is a high quality protein source, and broccoli is packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Using fresh cream and Parmesan provides calcium and richness, while gluten free noodles make the dish accessible to more diets. Each serving offers balance, satisfying flavor, and nutrients that keep you feeling full and energized.

Recipe Success Tips

If your alfredo sauce turns out grainy or splits, try stirring in the Parmesan cheese off the direct heat and avoid boiling once cheese is added. If the sauce is too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water quickly loosens texture without thinning flavor. To prevent mushy broccoli, steam only until bright green and immediately toss with the sauce. Use a deep skillet or sauté pan to prevent splattering and ensure even cooking throughout the dish.

This creamy chicken broccoli alfredo pasta recipe has transformed our weeknight dinners into something memorable and comforting. I hope you find it just as versatile and satisfying as we do, and that it becomes a favorite in your family’s dinner rotation.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, any pasta like penne, linguine, or spaghetti pairs well with the creamy chicken broccoli combination.

→ How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce slightly longer or add extra Parmesan to achieve a richer, thicker consistency.

→ Can frozen broccoli be substituted for fresh?

Frozen broccoli works as a substitute; just thaw and drain well before using to avoid excess moisture.

→ Is it possible to make it lighter?

Use half-and-half or milk in place of heavy cream, and reduce the cheese for a lighter version.

→ How do I prevent the sauce from separating?

Stir the sauce constantly over medium-low heat and avoid boiling after adding the cheese.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess and prevent drying out.