Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

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Silky ribbons of fettuccine coated in a luscious, garlicky Alfredo sauce… juicy slices of golden-seared chicken… vibrant green broccoli adding a fresh pop of flavor and crunch. This is the kind of pasta that feels like a warm hug on a plate — rich, comforting, and indulgent, yet balanced with the wholesome goodness of vegetables.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it up to impress friends, Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta delivers every time. The creamy Parmesan sauce clings to each strand of pasta, while the tender chicken and crisp-tender broccoli create a satisfying bite. It’s a one-pan wonder that turns everyday ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish in less than an hour.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

This dish is the ultimate marriage of comfort and freshness — creamy enough to feel indulgent, yet brightened by broccoli’s natural sweetness. It’s versatile, quick to prepare, and can easily be adapted for low-carb, gluten-free, or extra-veggie variations. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that makes your kitchen smell amazing, drawing everyone to the table before you even call them.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Their Importance)

Before diving into the cooking process, having the right tools will make everything smoother and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Pot – For boiling pasta. A roomy pot ensures your fettuccine cooks evenly and doesn’t stick together.
• Deep Sauté Pan or Skillet – Ideal for searing the chicken and later making the Alfredo sauce without overcrowding the pan.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife – Precision is key when slicing chicken into even strips for uniform cooking.
• Cutting Board – Keeps your prep area organized and safe while chopping broccoli and prepping other ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – Gentle on your cookware and perfect for stirring the sauce without scratching your pan.
• Colander – Essential for draining pasta quickly while keeping it al dente.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – For accurately portioning cream, cheese, and seasonings so the flavor balance is just right.

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Preparation Tips

1. Prep Ahead – Cut the chicken and broccoli before you start cooking to keep the process seamless.
2. Season in Layers – Season chicken before cooking and taste your sauce as you go to build depth of flavor.
3. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli – Blanch or steam it briefly so it keeps its vibrant color and crunch.
4. Reserve Pasta Water – A splash can help loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
5. Use Fresh Parmesan – Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
6. Work Over Medium Heat – Keeps cream sauces from splitting while allowing flavors to meld.

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Ingredients for This Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

• 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine pasta
• 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for extra richness)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Step 1 – Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2 – Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken strips with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.

Step 3 – Blanch the Broccoli

In the same pot used for the pasta, add broccoli florets to boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. Drain and set aside.

Step 4 – Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3–4 minutes. Slowly whisk in the Parmesan until smooth.

Step 5 – Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for creaminess.

Step 6 – Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

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Notes

• Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother and blends better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
• Adjust the creaminess by varying the amount of pasta water added at the end.
• For extra flavor, sauté the broccoli briefly in garlic butter instead of blanching.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Overcooking Pasta – Alfredo sauce clings best to pasta that’s just al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the sauce.
2. Using Too Much Heat for Sauce – High heat can cause cream to split, leaving a greasy texture. Keep it at low to medium.
3. Adding Cheese Too Quickly – Stir Parmesan in slowly and over low heat to avoid clumps.
4. Skipping the Pasta Water – Without it, the sauce may thicken too much and lose that silky coating.
5. Neglecting Seasoning – Taste at every stage. Cream and cheese can mellow out saltiness, so adjust before serving.

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What to Serve With Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up every drop of that creamy sauce.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and Parmesan balance the richness of the pasta.
3. Roasted Asparagus – Adds a smoky, earthy side to complement the Alfredo flavors.
4. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing contrast.
5. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with juicy tomatoes and herbs for a light starter.
6. Grilled Zucchini – Mild, tender vegetables that pair beautifully with creamy pasta.
7. Spinach and Strawberry Salad – Sweet and savory with a hint of crunch.
8. Chilled Sparkling Lemonade – A refreshing beverage to cut through the richness.

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Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing – While possible, freezing creamy sauces can sometimes cause them to separate. If you choose to freeze, cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Meal Prep Tip – Keep pasta and sauce in separate containers if making ahead for better texture.

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Estimated Nutrition** (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories – 620 kcal
• Protein – 36 g
• Carbohydrates – 52 g
• Fat – 30 g
• Saturated Fat – 17 g
• Cholesterol – 145 mg
• Sodium – 540 mg
• Fiber – 4 g
• Sugar – 4 g

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, linguine, or spaghetti work well, though fettuccine holds the sauce beautifully.

2. How can I make this lighter?

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half, and use less cheese or a reduced-fat version.

3. Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely — just thaw and pat dry before adding to avoid excess water in the sauce.

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

Use freshly grated Parmesan and add it slowly over low heat.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and check that your chicken broth is gluten-free.

6. What protein alternatives can I use?

Shrimp, salmon, or even crispy tofu make great swaps for chicken.

7. How long does it take from start to finish?

About 30–35 minutes if you prep ingredients ahead.

8. Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely — mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach blend beautifully into the dish.

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Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is a dish that never fails to impress — from its silky sauce to the tender chicken and bright green broccoli. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet decadent enough for special occasions. Once you try it, it might just become your go-to comfort food pasta.

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