Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo

Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo is a dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. With its rich, creamy sauce enveloping tender fettuccine and juicy chicken, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The addition of broccoli adds a healthy touch, ensuring you enjoy both taste and nutrition in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can serve a delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy Alfredo sauce is packed with flavor, thanks to garlic and Parmesan cheese.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the pasta or add more vegetables based on your preference.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or entertaining guests, this dish impresses every time.
• Satisfying Meal: Each serving is hearty and filling, making it great for lunch or dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are some recommended items that will help you create this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken and making the Alfredo sauce in one pan, reducing cleanup time.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures the fettuccine cooks evenly to achieve that perfect al dente texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Helps keep your measurements precise for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 200 g fettuccine pasta
• 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Chicken

• 250 g chicken breast, sliced into strips
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 200 ml heavy cream
• 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup broccoli florets, lightly steamed
• Salt & pepper to taste

How to Make Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Cook fettuccine in salted boiling water until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking:
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Season chicken strips with salt and pepper.
3. Cook chicken in the skillet until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet:
1. Melt butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add grated Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Toss cooked pasta and steamed broccoli into the sauce until well coated.
2. Top with grilled chicken pieces before serving.

This Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo is sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy every creamy bite!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo

Serving Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo is all about presentation and enhancing the flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Parsley or Basil: Chopped fresh herbs add brightness and color to your dish, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Garnish with Cheese

• Extra Parmesan: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top provides a deliciously cheesy finish to your fettuccine.

Serve with Lemon Wedges

• Zesty Lemon: Adding lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their pasta, giving it a refreshing twist.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Crunchy Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly, providing a crunchy texture contrast.

Include a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens dressed with light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

Offer Red Pepper Flakes

• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile of the dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo

Creating the perfect Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo involves attention to detail. Follow these tips for an irresistible dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and broccoli enhance flavor and texture, making your dish more vibrant.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking fettuccine just right ensures it holds its shape and texture when combined with the sauce.

• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allowing the cream to simmer gently helps develop rich flavors without curdling.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go; this allows you to achieve the perfect balance of flavors without overpowering the dish.

• Mix in Pasta Water: Use a bit of reserved pasta water if your sauce is too thick; it helps create a silky consistency that clings to the pasta.

• Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is classic, mixing in other cheeses like Pecorino Romano can add depth to your sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo

To complement your Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo, consider these delicious side dishes. They enhance your meal while balancing flavors and textures.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich fettuccine.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide earthy flavors that pair well with creamy pasta dishes.

3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance to your plate while contributing a fresh taste.

4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside this pasta dish.

5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic presents bright flavors that cut through the richness of Alfredo sauce.

6. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction create a fresh appetizer that excites the palate.

7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a touch of sweetness and crunch, making it a great seasonal side choice.

8. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini offers a healthy option that complements the creamy fettuccine nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking fettuccine too long can lead to mushy noodles. Aim for al dente, which means firm to the bite, and remember it will cook a bit more in the sauce.
• Skipping seasoning: Forgetting to season your chicken and sauce can result in bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper at each stage for the best taste.
• Using low-quality cream: A good heavy cream is crucial for a rich Alfredo sauce. Avoid using low-fat options as they won’t give you the desired creaminess.
• Not sautéing garlic properly: Garlic should be sautéed just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Overcooking can make it bitter, ruining the flavor of your sauce.
• Adding ingredients too quickly: Adding broccoli or cheese too soon can affect texture. Wait until your sauce has thickened before mixing in these ingredients for the best results.
• Not tossing pasta well: Ensure that you toss your pasta thoroughly with the sauce. This helps every strand get coated and absorb those delicious flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be kept for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1 minute), stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed; stir frequently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo.

Can I use different pasta types for Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo?

Yes, this recipe works well with penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta alternatives.

How can I make a lighter version of Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo?

You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce calories while still maintaining creaminess.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

You can use Pecorino Romano or any hard cheese that grates well as a substitute for Parmesan.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I prevent my sauce from separating?

Make sure you cook on low heat and avoid boiling once the cream is added. Stir continuously for a smooth texture.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo is a delightful dish that’s both comforting and versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the richness of the sauce. Give it a try; you’ll love how simple yet delicious it is!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo

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• Author: Dian
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Fettuccine Alfredo is the epitome of cozy comfort food. This dish features tender fettuccine pasta coated in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce, paired with juicy chicken and fresh broccoli florets. Perfect for family dinners or a special occasion, this recipe is quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. With the blend of garlic and Parmesan cheese in the sauce, each bite bursts with flavor while providing a wholesome touch of nutrition. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night at home, this creamy pasta dish will surely impress everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 200 g fettuccine pasta
• 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)
• 250 g chicken breast, sliced into strips
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 200 ml heavy cream
• 50 g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup broccoli florets, lightly steamed

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Instructions

1. Cook the fettuccine in salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Season chicken strips with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens.
5. Toss cooked fettuccine and lightly steamed broccoli into the sauce until well coated. Top with grilled chicken before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 100mg