If you’re searching for a comforting yet quick dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo for Busy Nights Recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with fresh flavors, this dish brings tender chicken and vibrant broccoli together in a luscious Alfredo sauce that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or just craving something satisfying without the fuss, this recipe delivers deliciousness without draining your evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each item not only complements the others but also ensures you get that perfect balance of creaminess, tenderness, and bright vegetable goodness.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: These cook quickly and soak up the delicious seasoning and sauce perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing chicken evenly without sticking, adding a subtle fruity flavor.
- 3 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen: Adds a pop of color and crunch that pairs wonderfully with creamy sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and a slight kick.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the dish a savory, home-cooked flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances every ingredient’s natural taste without overwhelming.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that balances the creaminess.
- 12 ounces fettuccine or pasta of choice: Fettuccine is traditional and perfect for holding Alfredo sauce, but feel free to switch it up.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Brings richness and helps create a velvety sauce texture.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: The heart of the Alfredo sauce, making it indulgently creamy.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated ensures a sharper, more vibrant cheese flavor.
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved): A magic ingredient that helps thin and unify the sauce flawlessly.
- Optional parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, herby note and a beautiful finish.
How to Make Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo for Busy Nights Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start with bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—the secret to perfectly seasoned pasta. Cook your fettuccine or preferred pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Make sure to reserve 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining. This reserved water works wonders for loosening up the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chicken pieces, seasoning them generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown and is cooked through. This step seals in the juices, giving you tender, flavorful bites. Once done, set the chicken aside but keep those delicious browned bits in the pan.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli and Garlic
In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic, sautéing for about one minute until it’s fragrant and tempting. Next, add the broccoli florets—whether fresh or frozen—and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. You want the broccoli to stay bright green and slightly tender, adding a fresh snap that cuts through the richness.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer, letting it thicken slightly. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese gradually, allowing it to melt smoothly into the cream. Add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach the perfect sauce consistency—silky, rich, and smooth.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, letting everything simmer together for 2 to 3 more minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Finally, add the cooked pasta and toss everything until every strand is luxuriously coated in that creamy Alfredo sauce. You’re now ready to serve an irresistible meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo for Busy Nights Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a refreshing herbaceous note that brightens the rich Alfredo sauce. You can also add a dash of cracked black pepper or a pinch of red chili flakes if you want a little kick of heat.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs nicely with a crisp side salad of mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette also works wonderfully for mopping up every bit of that sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo for Busy Nights Recipe in individual pasta bowls topped with extra Parmesan shavings and a drizzle of good quality olive oil. Alternatively, try layering it in a casserole dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake briefly for a bubbly, golden crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo for Busy Nights Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to keep the sauce creamy and the chicken tender.
Freezing
Freezing Alfredo dishes can be a bit tricky because the cream sauce tends to separate. However, you can freeze the chicken and broccoli mixture without the pasta for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, defrost overnight and reheat with freshly cooked pasta for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from breaking, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to bring back that creamy texture. Avoid microwaving unless you use short bursts and stir often for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly in this recipe and can be added directly from the freezer without thawing, making it even easier for busy nights.
What pasta works best for this Alfredo?
Fettuccine is traditional and excellent for holding the sauce, but penne, linguine, or even spaghetti are great options depending on what you have on hand.
How can I make this recipe quicker?
Using rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked shredded chicken can shave off some prep time, letting you assemble the dish in under 20 minutes.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The creamy texture and mild flavors tend to be a hit with kids, especially with simple-seasoned chicken and familiar pasta.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, try substituting the heavy cream with coconut cream and using a dairy-free Parmesan alternative, though the flavor and texture will differ slightly.
Final Thoughts
If you want a meal that feels special but doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen, this Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo for Busy Nights Recipe has got you covered. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly. I’m confident once you try it, this will become a go-to recipe for those hectic evenings when you want a delicious home-cooked meal fast. Go ahead—make your weeknight dinners happy and hassle-free!
Print
Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo for Busy Nights Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a creamy, comforting pasta dish perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich Alfredo sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan, it’s a delicious one-pan meal that comes together quickly on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Proteins and Dairy
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 3 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pantry Items and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12 ounces fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
- Optional: parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté garlic and broccoli: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they become bright green and slightly tender.
- Make the Alfredo sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the broccoli and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the reserved pasta water to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine chicken and pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors together. Then add the cooked pasta and toss everything well to coat the noodles evenly with the Alfredo sauce.
- Serve: Serve the Chicken Broccoli Alfredo warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh, colorful finish.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal option.
- Frozen broccoli can be added directly to the skillet without thawing.
- Fettuccine works best for this dish, but penne or linguine are great substitutes.
