When you’re in the mood for something soul-warming, creamy, and packed with savory flavor, this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta delivers on all fronts. Imagine perfectly cooked fettuccine noodles, tender pan-seared chicken, and vibrant green broccoli all coated in a luxurious Alfredo sauce that clings to every bite. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet comforting—ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner-in.

This pasta dish is not only about comfort but also about balance. The broccoli adds a welcome crunch and a hint of earthiness that offsets the richness of the Alfredo sauce. The seared chicken adds protein and golden color, making each forkful satisfyingly complete. It’s an easy-to-make dinner that looks fancy but is wonderfully fuss-free.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, gathering your tools is key for a smooth experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Crucial for cooking the chicken and preparing the Alfredo sauce. A wide surface helps brown the meat evenly.
Medium Saucepan or Pasta Pot: You’ll need this to boil your fettuccine and blanch the broccoli.
Strainer or Colander: For draining pasta and broccoli efficiently.

Tongs or Spatula: Useful for flipping chicken and mixing the pasta with sauce.
Whisk: To make sure your Alfredo sauce is smooth and creamy without lumps.

Each tool has its place: the skillet brings flavor through browning, while the whisk ensures that signature silky Alfredo finish. With everything within reach, you’ll be well on your way to pasta perfection.

Ingredients for the Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Fettuccine Pasta: This flat, thick pasta holds onto the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully, making every bite rich and satisfying.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer a lean protein and become golden and juicy when pan-seared.
Fresh Broccoli Florets: Adds texture, color, and a nutritional punch. It also contrasts nicely with the creaminess.

Butter: The base of the Alfredo sauce, adding richness and helping to cook the garlic.
Garlic (minced): Brings a bold aromatic depth to the sauce.
Heavy Cream: Essential for that luscious Alfredo consistency. It binds the ingredients with a velvety texture.

Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated): For salty, nutty flavor and thickening the sauce naturally.
Salt & Black Pepper: Seasoning staples that enhance every layer of flavor.
Olive Oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.

How To Make the Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente. In the last 2 minutes, add the broccoli florets to blanch them. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan, let rest, and slice into strips.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in the heavy cream, whisking to combine. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Parmesan & Seasoning

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until the sauce thickens. Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce. Top with sliced chicken. Serve immediately, garnished with more Parmesan if desired.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Serve this pasta hot and fresh out of the skillet, when the sauce is at its peak creaminess. A light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a crack of black pepper just before serving enhances the flavors even more. Pair it with a crisp side salad or some warm garlic bread to round out the meal beautifully.

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s silky texture. It’s best reheated on the stove over low heat, stirring gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of pasta works best with Alfredo sauce?

Fettuccine is the classic choice, but linguine or tagliatelle also work wonderfully because they grip the sauce well.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain it properly to avoid watering down the sauce.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, though the sauce may be slightly less rich. A bit of cream cheese can help thicken it if needed.

How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat moderate when simmering and always whisk the cream and cheese slowly. Don’t let it boil.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the chicken and broccoli in advance. Reheat gently with added cream to restore consistency.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Due to the dairy content, freezing can change the sauce’s texture. It’s not recommended, but it’s doable if texture change isn’t a concern.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta hit the spot, you’ll want to explore these other delicious and satisfying dinner options:

Longhorn Parmesan Chicken for a cheesy, oven-baked twist.

Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells for a meatless comfort dish.
One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta if you crave heat with your creaminess.
Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff for another creamy, hearty skillet favorite.

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne when you want something similar with a penne twist.

And for even more recipe inspiration, be sure to check out my daily meal creations on Pinterest: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how it turned out for you! Did you go extra cheesy? Swap out the broccoli for spinach? Add mushrooms or a splash of white wine?

I love hearing how you make these dishes your own. Questions and variations are welcome—let’s keep dinner exciting and doable.

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Author: Olivia McKenney

Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A creamy, dreamy pasta dish featuring tender seared chicken, vibrant broccoli, and rich Parmesan Alfredo sauce over fettuccine. It’s a comfort meal that feels indulgent yet simple enough for a weeknight.

Instructions

1. Boil a large pot of salted water. Add fettuccine and cook until al dente. Add broccoli during the last 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sear chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked. Let rest, then slice.

3. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).

4. Pour in heavy cream and whisk. Simmer 3–4 minutes.

5. Add Parmesan and whisk until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Toss in cooked pasta and broccoli. Top with sliced chicken. Serve hot with extra Parmesan.