chicken broccoli alfredo recipe

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe: Your Go-To Comfort Dinner

The Ultimate Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe You Must Try Today

What Is the Recipe for Chicken Broccoli Alfredo?

🥦 CHICKEN BROCCOLI ALFREDO RECIPE: Cook broccoli and chicken in a skillet, then prepare pasta according to package instructions. Combine pasta with a creamy Parmesan sauce, and toss with the cooked chicken and broccoli. Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese.

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, creamy dish that’s easy to whip up, you’re in the right place. 

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Imagine tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and pasta all coated in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce. 

Sound good? You bet it does. 

Whether you’re cooking up dinner for the family or just treating yourself, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s rich, comforting, and can even fit into a keto diet if that’s your thing.

But before we get to the recipe, let’s take a minute to chat about why Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is always a hit.

A plate of penne pasta with broccoli, topped with creamy white sauce and grated cheese, served with a fork on a dark background
A plate of penne pasta with broccoli, topped with creamy white sauce and grated cheese, served with a fork on a dark background

Table of Contents:

What Exactly Is Chicken Broccoli Alfredo?

A white plate filled with penne pasta, broccoli, and a light sauce, garnished with grated cheese, placed on a dark table with a fork and knife in the background
A white plate filled with penne pasta, broccoli, and a light sauce, garnished with grated cheese, placed on a dark table with a fork and knife in the background

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a delicious Italian-American favorite that brings together the rich, creamy Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and crisp broccoli.

Usually served with fettuccine pasta, this dish can also be made with other types of pasta if you prefer. 

The Alfredo sauce, made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, wraps everything in a velvety layer of flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent.

But it’s not just about the taste—this dish also packs a balanced mix of protein, veggies, and carbs. 

Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to various dietary needs or whatever ingredients you have on hand, which is why it’s a go-to for so many home cooks.

Is Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Keto-Friendly?

A white plate of bowtie pasta with broccoli, mushrooms, and melted cheese, served with a fork on a wooden table with a blue checkered napkin
A white plate of bowtie pasta with broccoli, mushrooms, and melted cheese, served with a fork on a wooden table with a blue checkered napkin

Now, if you’re following a keto diet, you might be wondering if Chicken Broccoli Alfredo fits the bill. The good news is, with a few adjustments, it absolutely can! 

While traditional Alfredo sauce is keto-friendly, you’ll need to swap out the pasta for a low-carb alternative like zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. 

The rich, creamy sauce paired with chicken and broccoli is already packed with fats and protein, making it an ideal choice for those on a ketogenic diet.

So yes, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo can easily be made keto-friendly. You get all the delicious flavors without derailing your diet, which is a win-win in our book.

Ingredients To Prepare

Before you get started, you’ll want to gather all your ingredients. This ensures you won’t have to scramble around the kitchen mid-recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add a pop of color and a satisfying crunch to the dish, providing a perfect contrast to the creamy Alfredo sauce.
  • Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast offers a lean source of protein that absorbs the flavors of the sauce, creating a hearty and flavorful main component.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is essential for the rich, nutty taste of the Alfredo sauce, melting smoothly to give it that creamy, velvety texture.
  • Butter: Unsalted butter forms the base of the sauce, providing a rich, smooth flavor that enhances the overall creaminess of the dish.
  • Heavy Cream: Heavy cream contributes to the sauce’s luxurious, thick consistency, making it delectably creamy and indulgent.
  • Pasta of Your Choice: Whether you use fettuccine, penne, or a low-carb alternative, pasta serves as the perfect vessel for the Alfredo sauce, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a warm, aromatic depth to the sauce, infusing it with a subtle yet essential flavor.
  • Olive Oil: Used to cook the chicken, olive oil adds a light, fruity note while ensuring the chicken develops a golden-brown crust.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, salt and pepper balance the flavors of the dish, enhancing the taste of each ingredient without overpowering the creamy sauce.

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to making a fantastic Chicken Broccoli Alfredo that’s sure to impress.

Ingredient Measurement

To make sure everything comes together perfectly, here’s a quick rundown of the measurements you’ll need:

  • 2 heads of fresh or frozen broccoli, chopped (yielding approximately 3 to 4 cups)
  • 500 grams of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced into 1-inch cubes)
  • 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (with extra for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup of butter
  • 2 cups of heavy cream
  • 450 grams of your preferred pasta
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • A pinch of salt and pepper, to taste 

Equipment You’ll Need

Having the right tools on hand can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Large Pot for boiling pasta
  • Large cast-iron skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
  • Colander for draining pasta 
  • Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
  • Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula for stirring
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

How To Make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

A rustic plate of penne pasta with broccoli and a creamy sauce, sprinkled with grated cheese, set on a wooden table with a fork
A rustic plate of penne pasta with broccoli and a creamy sauce, sprinkled with grated cheese, set on a wooden table with a fork

Now, let’s get into the fun part—cooking! This recipe is straightforward and comes together in three main steps: preparing the broccoli and pasta, cooking the chicken, and making the Alfredo sauce.

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli and Boil the Pasta

  • Start by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. 
  • While waiting for the water to heat up, warm a large cast-iron skillet (or any large skillet) over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the fresh broccoli florets and season them with a little salt and pepper. 
  • Cook the broccoli uncovered for about 4 minutes, or until it turns a vibrant green. Then, pour in 1/4 cup of water and continue cooking, uncovered, until the water evaporates and the broccoli is tender but still crisp. 
  • Transfer the broccoli to a medium-sized bowl and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  • As the water continues to boil, add the pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions. 
  • Meanwhile, in the same skillet you used for the broccoli, heat another tablespoon of olive oil. Arrange the chicken pieces in an even layer in the skillet and season them with salt and pepper. 
  • Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. 
  • Transfer the chicken to the bowl with the broccoli

Step 3: Make the Sauce and Combine Everything

  • In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. 
  • Pour in the heavy cream and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts and the sauce begins to bubble. Reduce the heat to low.
  • Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the garlic alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the noodles evenly. Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the skillet and mix everything together. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. 
  • Serve the broccoli chicken alfredo warm, topped with extra grated Parmesan cheese if you like.

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Nutrition

A plate of bowtie pasta with broccoli, chicken, and a creamy sauce, garnished with fresh basil leaves, served on a white dish
A plate of bowtie pasta with broccoli, chicken, and a creamy sauce, garnished with fresh basil leaves, served on a white dish

When it comes to nutrition, Chicken Broccoli Alfredo can be a well-balanced meal, especially if you make mindful ingredient choices. 

Here’s a general nutritional breakdown for a typical serving (assuming you’re using regular pasta):

  • Calories: 1092 kcal
  • Total fats: 52 grams
  • Net carbs: 86 grams
  • Protein: 63.9 grams

This dish is high in protein and fat, making it quite filling. If you’re on a low-carb or keto diet, opting for a pasta alternative can significantly reduce the carbohydrate content.

Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

A white plate of orecchiette pasta with broccoli, topped with grated cheese, and served with a fork on a green fabric background
A white plate of orecchiette pasta with broccoli, topped with grated cheese, and served with a fork on a green fabric background

Want to take your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo to the next level? Here are some expert tips to ensure it’s perfect every time:

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic make a big difference in flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Blanching the broccoli for just a couple of minutes keeps it crisp-tender and vibrant.
  • Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, use a bit of pasta water to thin it out. If too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
  • Season as You Go: Taste your dish at every stage and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
  • Keep It Warm: Alfredo sauce can thicken as it cools, so keep the dish warm until serving.

Enjoy the process and don’t be afraid to make it your own. With a few tweaks and a touch of creativity, you’ll have a dish that’s not only delicious but uniquely yours.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

A skillet filled with pasta, broccoli, and meatballs, served with two forks and a small dish of pepper on a white tablecloth
A skillet filled with pasta, broccoli, and meatballs, served with two forks and a small dish of pepper on a white tablecloth

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to add some variety, here are a few serving and pairing ideas:

  • Side Salad: A simple Caesar salad or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
  • Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing.
  • Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio works wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
  • Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a non-alcoholic option, a glass of sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon provides a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.
  • Chicken Broccoli Casserole: For a comforting twist, consider serving your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo alongside a chicken broccoli casserole. It’s a great way to use up any extra chicken and broccoli, and it adds a hearty, baked element to your meal.

Whether you prefer a light, crisp salad, a hearty side of garlic bread, or a comforting casserole baked in a casserole dish, these suggestions can enhance your meal and create a dining experience that’s both satisfying and delightful. 

How To Store Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

A close-up of fettuccine pasta mixed with broccoli, chicken, and a creamy sauce
A close-up of fettuccine pasta mixed with broccoli, chicken, and a creamy sauce

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Chicken Broccoli Alfredo stores well, making it a great option for meal prep. Here’s how to store it:

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze Chicken Broccoli Alfredo for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the sauce may separate slightly when reheated.
  • Reheat: To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

More Keto Recipes You Can Make at Home

If you loved this recipe and are looking for more keto-friendly dishes to try, here are a few ideas:

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Pasta Is Best for Chicken Broccoli Alfredo?

Traditional fettuccine is the go-to choice for Alfredo sauce because its wide, flat shape holds the sauce well. However, you can use any pasta you prefer, from penne to spaghetti. 

For a keto-friendly option, try zucchini noodles, shirataki noodles, or even spaghetti squash.

Can I Use a Store-Bought Alfredo Sauce for Chicken Broccoli Alfredo?

Absolutely! While homemade Alfredo sauce is unbeatable in flavor, store-bought options can be a great time-saver. 

Just be sure to choose a high-quality brand, and feel free to doctor it up with extra garlic, Parmesan, or cream to make it your own.

Can I Substitute the Chicken With Another Protein?

Yes, you can! Shrimp, turkey, or even tofu are great substitutes for chicken in this recipe. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish, so don’t be afraid to experiment.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a classic dish that’s both comforting and versatile. Whether you’re sticking to a keto diet or just looking for a delicious meal to make at home, this recipe has you covered. 

With its creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli, it’s a dish that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

Ready to make this Chicken Broccoli Alfredo recipe your own? Head over to our website for more delicious recipes that are sure to become family favorites!