Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
If you’re craving a rich, creamy pasta dish that’s loaded with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, then you’re in for a treat with this Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta. This recipe hits all the right notes—comforting, cheesy, and packed with wholesome ingredients that come together in a luscious Alfredo sauce. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. The combination of perfectly cooked fettuccine, juicy chicken, and crisp broccoli smothered in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce is simply irresistible.
Why It’s My Go-To
There are plenty of pasta recipes out there, but this one stands out for its balance of flavors and textures. The creamy Alfredo sauce feels indulgent without being overwhelming, and the chicken adds a nice protein boost, making it a complete meal. Plus, the broccoli adds a pop of color and freshness, making it feel a bit lighter and more nutritious. It’s also incredibly easy to make with just one pan for the protein and veggies, and a pot for the pasta—minimal cleanup, maximum flavor. I love whipping this up when I want something that tastes like it took hours but is ready in under 30 minutes. And if you’re a fan of cheesy dishes, you might also enjoy my Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole, which brings a spicy twist to a cheesy chicken dinner.
What We’re Using
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta – The perfect pasta shape to hold onto that creamy Alfredo sauce.
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced – Tender, lean protein that cooks quickly and soaks up the flavors.
- 2 cups broccoli florets – Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and garlic, giving a subtle richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the luxurious, creamy base of the sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – The star ingredient that makes the Alfredo sauce cheesy and flavorful.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a gentle kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A fragrant mix of herbs that rounds out the dish beautifully.
Must-Have Equipment
- Large pot – For boiling the fettuccine pasta to al dente perfection.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – To cook the chicken, broccoli, and make the sauce all in one place.
- Colander – For draining the pasta efficiently.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – For stirring the sauce without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To keep the ingredient ratios just right.
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta Made Stepwise
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt, black pepper, and half the Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the broccoli and garlic
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the broccoli florets and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp, and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine with the broccoli and garlic. Add the remaining Italian seasoning and the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the creamy sauce. Add the drained fettuccine pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if you like.
In-Season Swaps
- Swap broccoli for asparagus or green beans when those are fresh and in season for a different crunch.
- Use baby spinach for a milder, softer green that wilts into the sauce beautifully.
- Try diced zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful, fresh twist.
- Swap chicken breast with turkey breast or even firm tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If your sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken, or it can become dry. Cooking it just until no longer pink keeps it juicy.
- If the sauce isn’t thickening, keep the heat low and stir in more Parmesan cheese gradually.
- To avoid clumps, add the Parmesan cheese slowly and stir continuously as it melts.
Best Ways to Store
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring every minute to heat evenly. This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the cream sauce can separate upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese or nutritional yeast to keep the cheesy flavor without the dairy.
What pasta works best for Alfredo dishes?
Fettuccine is classic because its wide, flat shape catches the creamy sauce perfectly. However, you can also use linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne if you prefer.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works fine. Just thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the skillet to prevent the sauce from becoming watery.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic or sprinkle some on top when serving. You can also try mixing in a little spicy sausage or chorizo with the chicken for an extra kick.
Don’t Miss These
- Love creamy pasta? Check out this Spinach Mushroom Alfredo Lasagna for a hearty twist on a classic.
- Looking for a cozy casserole? Try my Cheesy Chicken Fajita Casserole for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
In Closing
This Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a surefire way to make dinner special without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, or simply treating yourself, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. So next time you want a satisfying pasta meal, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
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Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt, black pepper, and half the Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then toss in the broccoli florets and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp, and the garlic is fragrant.
- Lower the heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine with the broccoli and garlic. Add the remaining Italian seasoning and the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the creamy sauce. Add the drained fettuccine pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if you like.
Notes
- Add reserved pasta water gradually to adjust sauce consistency perfectly.
- Don’t overcook chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Add Parmesan cheese slowly while stirring to prevent clumps.
