Description
Creamy Alfredo pasta with tender chicken and crisp broccoli — a comforting one-pan dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
Pasta and Vegetables
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta and broccoli: Prepare the pasta according to the package directions, adding the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking to ensure they remain tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Combine sauce and cheese: Stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the cream mixture until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss everything together: Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Serve immediately: Plate the creamy chicken broccoli Alfredo while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Add lemon zest to the sauce for a fresh, bright flavor contrast.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to create a lighter sauce without sacrificing creaminess.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a more authentic and rich taste.
- Ensure the broccoli remains crisp by not overcooking it during the pasta boiling step.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Main
- Method: Boiling and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
