Name: Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces whole wheat penne rotini; 1 medium/large head broccoli (cut into florets (about 3 cups)); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided); 2 medium chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces (about 1 1/4 pounds)); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ¾ teaspoon kosher salt (divided); ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 4 cloves garlic (minced (about 4 teaspoons)); 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 can (12 ounces) reduced-fat evaporated milk; ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus additional for serving)

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Whenever I think of comfort food, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo instantly comes to mind. This dish has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and it holds a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the aroma wafting through the house was simply irresistible. It was a chilly evening, and the thought of a creamy, cheesy pasta dish made everyone’s mouths water. Sitting down together, we enjoyed every bite, and laughter filled the air. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a memory that brings us closer. I love how Chicken Broccoli Alfredo combines the wholesome goodness of fresh broccoli with tender chunks of chicken and the richness of a creamy sauce. The best part? It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for gatherings. I often find myself making it for friends, and every time, they rave about how delicious it is. Whenever I serve it, I see smiles all around the table, and that’s what cooking is all about – sharing joy through food.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
490 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Oven, Large Pot, Grater, Saucepan, Whisk

What We Adore About This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

It’s Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s just something about Chicken Broccoli Alfredo that screams comfort. Perhaps it’s the creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta, making each bite a warm hug. The combination of flavors is simply delightful, and it’s the kind of dish that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a big bowl.

Wholesome Ingredients

This recipe is packed with nutritious ingredients. The fresh broccoli adds a pop of color and essential vitamins, while the chicken provides lean protein. Together, they create a balanced meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Family Favorite

Every time I serve Chicken Broccoli Alfredo, it turns into a family event. Everyone gathers around the table, and the dish quickly disappears. It’s a meal that brings people together, creating lasting memories around the dinner table.

Quick and Easy

One of the best aspects of this recipe is how quickly it comes together. With just a bit of prep and some simple cooking, you can have this delicious dish ready in no time. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Endless Variations

What I love about Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is how versatile it is. You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or choosing a different type of pasta. It’s a great way to use up leftovers, and you can adapt it to suit your family’s taste preferences.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a gathering with friends, or a special occasion, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo fits the bill perfectly. It’s a dish that impresses without all the fuss, making it ideal for any event.

Ingredients to Make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

When it comes to the ingredients for Chicken Broccoli Alfredo, each one plays a crucial role in creating a delicious and satisfying dish. The harmony between the flavors of the fresh broccoli, tender chicken, and creamy sauce is what makes this recipe shine. Let’s explore each ingredient and how they come together to create this fantastic meal.

8 ounces whole wheat penne rotini, or pasta shape of choice: This forms the base of the dish, providing a hearty texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
1 medium/large head broccoli, cut into florets (about 3 cups): Fresh broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the sauce.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: The butter enriches the sauce, creating a velvety texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
2 medium chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 1 1/4 pounds): Lean chicken provides protein, making this dish filling and satisfying.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs enhances the flavor profile, giving the dish a deliciously aromatic quality.
¾ teaspoon kosher salt, divided: Used to season the chicken and balance the overall flavors of the dish.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
4 cloves garlic, minced (about 4 teaspoons): Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with an irresistible aroma and taste.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce, giving it the perfect creamy consistency.
1 (12-ounce) can reduced-fat evaporated milk: This is the star of the creamy sauce, providing a rich texture without being too heavy.
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus additional for serving: The Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that ties everything together beautifully.

The Process for Making Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

Making Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a straightforward process, and I love how quickly it comes together. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy in no time. Let’s get started!

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s rolling, add the penne rotini. About 4 minutes before the pasta reaches al dente (according to the package), add the broccoli florets and cook them together. This method not only saves time but also keeps the broccoli vibrant and crunchy. Remember to reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining; it’s a game changer!
In a Dutch oven or a large, deep pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. As the butter melts, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken, along with the Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring often, until the chicken is fully cooked through, which should take about 4 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
Next, in the same pot, heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic. After the garlic becomes fragrant, sprinkle the flour over the top. Cook, stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the mixture to turn a lovely golden color. This step is crucial as it helps cook off the raw flavor of the flour.
Slowly pour in the evaporated milk, whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. Bring the mixture to a steady simmer, stirring often to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened nicely.
Now it’s time to add the Parmesan cheese and the remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The aroma will be incredible!
Finally, return the cooked chicken back to the pot, along with the drained pasta and broccoli. Gently stir everything together to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add some of the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency. Give it a taste, and adjust the seasoning with a bit more black pepper if you like.
Serve your delicious Chicken Broccoli Alfredo hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Perfect Timing: Keep an eye on your pasta as it cooks. Adding the broccoli at the right time ensures it remains crisp and vibrant.
Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer gently helps deepen its flavor. Stir often to prevent sticking.
Quality Parmesan: Using freshly grated Parmesan makes a noticeable difference in taste and texture. It melts beautifully!
Adjust Consistency: Feel free to add more of the reserved pasta water if your sauce ends up too thick; it keeps everything creamy.

Making Adjustments

When it comes to Chicken Broccoli Alfredo, there are several ways to customize the recipe to your liking. Here are some tips and adjustments you might consider:

Storage: Store leftover Chicken Broccoli Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently.
Freezing: While freezing is not ideal for this dish due to the creamy sauce, it may be possible. Expect a change in texture when thawed.
Variations: Add your favorite vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
Protein Options: Substitute chicken with shrimp or even a meat substitute for a different twist on the dish.
Herb Alternatives: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to elevate the flavor profile.
Cooking Methods: Consider making this dish in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for convenience.

Best Served With

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions to enhance your meal experience:

Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to mop up every last bit of delicious sauce.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish perfectly.
Wine Pairing: If you enjoy wine, consider a chilled glass of white wine for a lovely contrast.
Seasonal Vegetables: Roast some seasonal vegetables on the side for a colorful and nutritious addition.
Occasions: This dish is great for casual family dinners, date nights, or special gatherings.
Leftovers: Store any leftover Chicken Broccoli Alfredo in a sealed container for later enjoyment.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Cook the pasta and broccoli just before serving to maintain their texture. You can also make the sauce in advance and reheat it gently before adding the chicken and pasta. Just be sure to add a splash of pasta water or milk to the sauce when reheating, keeping it creamy.

While I typically use whole wheat penne rotini, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Fusilli, fettuccine, or even gluten-free options work wonderfully. The key is to ensure it complements the creamy sauce so that every bite is delicious.

Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, peas, or carrots. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly so everything is cooked to your liking. It’s an excellent way to sneak in more nutrients!

Store leftover Chicken Broccoli Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to restore the creaminess of the sauce. Enjoy every last bite!

Conclusion

In summary, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a delicious combination of creamy pasta, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli that brings comfort to the dinner table. I encourage you to try it for your next family meal or gathering. It’s easy to make, and I promise it will become a favorite in your home just like it is in mine.