Fettuccine Alfredo with Broccoli & Chicken is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce over perfectly cooked fettuccine. This dish offers the indulgence of classic Italian cuisine with the added nutrition and texture of fresh vegetables and lean protein. The sauce is velvety and cheesy, coating every strand of pasta, while the chicken adds heartiness and the broccoli provides a satisfying crunch and vibrant color.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or a comforting weekend meal. It is elegant yet simple to prepare, making it ideal for both family meals and entertaining guests.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is indulgent without being overwhelming. The creamy Alfredo sauce is rich and flavorful, but the addition of broccoli and chicken balances the dish, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

It’s quick to prepare and can easily be customized with additional vegetables or protein. The combination of creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta is irresistible.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it elevates a classic pasta favorite with the addition of wholesome ingredients. It’s rich, comforting, and perfectly balanced, making it a family-friendly recipe that feels gourmet.

The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli ensures that every bite is flavorful and satisfying.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: ~650 kcal
Course: Main Course / Pasta
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets. Drain pasta and broccoli, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.

Step 2: Cook Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add cooked pasta, broccoli, and chicken to the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Serve
Transfer to serving plates and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook fettuccine in salted boiling water until al dente. Add broccoli in the last 3 minutes. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook 5-7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Melt butter in the same skillet. Sauté garlic for 1 minute.
4. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
5. Toss pasta, broccoli, and chicken into the sauce. Add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

How to Serve

Serve Fettuccine Alfredo with Broccoli & Chicken hot on plates, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Pair with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the sauce.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and creaminess.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
• Avoid boiling the cream to prevent it from separating.
• Add garlic sparingly; too much can overpower the delicate Alfredo flavor.

Variations

• Substitute chicken with shrimp or salmon for a seafood version.
• Add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Use gluten-free pasta for dietary restrictions.
• Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream for a lighter sauce.
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a mild spicy kick.

Freezing and Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Fettuccine Alfredo is best served fresh; freezing may alter the texture of the pasta and sauce.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon or tongs for tossing pasta and sauce

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, but reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes, omit chicken and use vegetable broth or add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
A: Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for a smoother, creamier sauce.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: Prepare the sauce in advance, but combine with pasta and chicken just before serving for the best texture.

Q: Can I make it lighter?
A: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk and reduce the butter slightly.

Conclusion

Fettuccine Alfredo with Broccoli & Chicken is a creamy, comforting, and flavorful dish that balances indulgence with nutrition. Easy to prepare yet elegant, this recipe is perfect for family meals, weeknight dinners, or entertaining guests. The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce makes it a must-try for anyone craving a satisfying and delicious pasta meal.