If you’re looking for a comforting dinner that comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor, look no further than this Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo for Busy Nights Recipe. Creamy, cheesy Alfredo sauce envelopes tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta to create a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or craving a hassle-free meal after a long day, this recipe hits all the right notes with minimal prep and maximum deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish a true crowd-pleaser.
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta: Choose your favorite pasta shape to soak up all the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a touch of richness and helps cook the chicken to a golden perfection.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and tender bites of protein.
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen): Bring in a pop of color and a fresh, slightly crunchy contrast to the creamy Alfredo.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Creates a luscious base for the garlicky sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with irresistible aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: The heart of the Alfredo’s silky, creamy texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory, nutty richness that makes the sauce truly unforgettable.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a subtle kick without overpowering the creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a hint of warmth and spice.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Freshens up the dish with a burst of green and a slight herbal note.
How to Make Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo for Busy Nights Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking your pasta according to the package directions. In the last two minutes of cooking, toss in your broccoli florets. This little trick lets the broccoli steam gently with the pasta, keeping them both perfectly tender. Drain everything and set aside — you’ll come back to them shortly.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
Step 3: Create the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and add your minced garlic, sautéing it for about one minute until the kitchen fills with that inviting garlicky scent. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and bring it gently to a simmer. Then stir in the Parmesan cheese along with the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, usually about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli back to the skillet with your luscious Alfredo sauce. Toss everything carefully to ensure each morsel is coated in creamy goodness. Finish by sprinkling vibrant chopped parsley on top for a fresh, colorful touch.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo for Busy Nights Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish visually and flavor-wise, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan or a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper on the top. A little more chopped parsley or basil leaves can add freshness and a pretty pop of green. A drizzle of good quality olive oil on top right before serving can add subtle richness as well.
Side Dishes
This rich pasta stands beautifully on its own but can be complemented with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is another perfect side, ideal for mopping up any leftover sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual dinner, serve it straight from the skillet at the table, letting everyone help themselves to piping hot portions. For a more elegant touch, plate individual servings and garnish with finely grated Parmesan and a sprig of fresh herbs. If you’re meal prepping, arrange the pasta in airtight containers and sprinkle the garnish just before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo for Busy Nights Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it cools, so a quick stir and gentle reheating will bring it back to creamy perfection.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to one month. Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, but keep in mind that Alfredo sauce may separate slightly on thawing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and restore its silkiness. Avoid microwaving on high to prevent the sauce from curdling; low and slow is key for creamy Alfredo taste.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne are traditional and excellent choices, feel free to use linguine, rotini, or even shells. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to your pasta’s instructions.
Is it okay to substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and can offer a juicier, more flavorful bite. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly before combining with the sauce and pasta.
Can I make this dish dairy-free or lighter?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version. Nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan-style cheese can replace the Parmesan to keep it dairy-free, though the flavor will be a bit different.
How do I prevent the broccoli from getting mushy?
Adding the broccoli only in the last two minutes of pasta cooking is key to keeping it bright and slightly crisp. Using fresh broccoli over frozen can also help maintain a better texture, but frozen works well in a pinch.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken to save time?
Definitely! Using rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Just add it to the Alfredo sauce in the final step to warm through without overcooking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about a dish that’s both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, and this Easy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo for Busy Nights Recipe truly delivers. It’s perfect for those nights when time is tight but you still want a dinner that feels cozy and special. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this creamy, comforting meal as much as I do!
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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 recipe is a creamy, comforting dinner perfect for busy weeknights. It features tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a rich Alfredo sauce tossed with fettuccine or your favorite pasta. The dish comes together quickly with minimal prep, making it ideal for families or meal prepping. It’s a satisfying, one-pan meal that combines flavor and convenience effortlessly.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Protein
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain pasta and broccoli and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6 to 7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together in the Alfredo sauce until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm for a creamy, satisfying meal.
Notes
- For quicker preparation, substitute rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast.
- To reduce richness, use half-and-half in place of heavy cream for a lighter Alfredo sauce.
- Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for more nutrition and flavor variety.
