Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a rich, cheesy sauce with hints of garlic and pepper. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or a special gathering, it offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the chicken into chunks.
- Fry the chicken in 1 tablespoon of butter with garlic and pepper seasoning salt until thoroughly cooked.
- Set the cooked chicken aside.
- Cook the broccoli until tender, then drain well.
- Cook 1 pound of your favorite pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, melt one stick of butter over medium heat.
- Add the cream cheese and stir until melted.
- Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to blend.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and black pepper until well combined and heated through.
- Combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, pasta, and sauce in the skillet.
- Toss everything together and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream along with the milk. If you don't have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano makes a great substitute. Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking the chicken. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves can elevate the presentation. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners or as a comforting option after a long day. For more delicious ideas, browse more chicken recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Broccoli Alfredo contains roughly 1497 calories, with 42g protein, 205g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (99% of the Daily Value), protein (85% of the Daily Value), and calcium (81% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1515mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used as a convenient alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish to avoid excess moisture. Cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly to ensure it's tender.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Fettuccine is the classic choice for Alfredo, but you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the creamy sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken, broccoli, and sauce in advance and combine them with the cooked pasta just before serving. Store each component separately in the refrigerator and assemble right before you're ready to eat for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).