Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta: A Creamy Delight for Dinner

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, creating a meal that is both comforting and satisfying. As I prepare this dish, I can’t help but think about its Italian roots, where pasta has been a staple for centuries. The combination of flavors and textures in Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is simply irresistible; the al dente pasta pairs beautifully with the succulent chicken and crisp-tender broccoli, all enveloped in a luscious sauce that makes every bite a pleasure.

People love this dish not only for its incredible taste but also for its convenience. It’s a one-pot wonder that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is a recipe that promises to impress and satisfy. Join me as we dive into the steps to create this delicious meal that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture, ensuring a nice sear when cooking. 2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. I like to use about 1 teaspoon of each, but feel free to adjust according to your taste. 3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. 4. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown. If you have a meat thermometer, this is a great time to use it! 5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and juicy. 6. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Set aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Cooking the Broccoli

7. In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the broccoli florets. If there’s any leftover oil or chicken juices, that’s perfect for flavor! 8. Sauté the broccoli over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the broccoli to be bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. 9. Once cooked, remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside with the sliced chicken.

Preparing the Pasta

10. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. I usually add about 1 tablespoon of salt to the water, which helps to flavor the pasta. 11. Once the water is boiling, add the fettuccine pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 12. When the pasta is done, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta, as you want to keep the starch that helps the sauce adhere.

Making the Alfredo Sauce

13. In the same skillet used for the chicken and broccoli, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. 14. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic. Allow the cream to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help thicken the sauce slightly. 15. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. 16. Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper to taste. I usually add about 1/4 teaspoon of each, but adjust according to your preference.

Combining Everything

17. Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it is well coated. 18. Next, add the sautéed broccoli and sliced chicken to the pasta. Gently toss everything together, ensuring that the chicken and broccoli are evenly distributed throughout the pasta. 19. If the pasta seems dry, add a little more of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired creaminess.

Serving the Dish

20. Once everything is combined and heated through, it’s time to serve! I like to plate the pasta in large bowls or on individual plates. 21. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top if you’re feeling indulgent. 22. Serve immediately while it’s hot and creamy.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a dish that is both comforting and delicious. The creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli come together to create a meal that not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a well-rounded nutritional profile. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings when you still want to enjoy a homemade meal. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a light side salad or some garlic bread to soak up that luscious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta a try and make it your own. Once you’ve whipped it up in your kitchen, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s inspire each other to enjoy this delightful dish together! Happy cooking!

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