Broccoli Chicken Alfredo is a creamy and comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a rich garlic Alfredo-style sauce. This Broccoli Chicken Alfredo recipe is prepared entirely in one pot, which makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknight dinners when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The chicken is sautéed until golden, then simmered with pasta, broth, and cream to create a flavorful sauce that coats every bite. As the pasta cooks, it absorbs the delicious broth and garlic flavor while the broccoli adds freshness and texture. This Broccoli Chicken Alfredo recipe is both hearty and balanced, making it a great meal for families or anyone looking for an easy chicken pasta dinner.
Ingredients for Broccoli Chicken Alfredo
This recipe uses simple pantry ingredients to create a creamy pasta dinner.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 2 | Cut into bite-size pieces |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | For cooking |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Italian seasoning | ¼ teaspoon | Flavor |
| Red pepper flakes | ¼ teaspoon | Optional heat |
| Chicken broth | 1½ cups | Cooking liquid |
| Half-and-half | 2 cups | Creamy sauce |
| Fusilli pasta | 3 cups | Uncooked |
| Broccoli florets | 2 cups | Cut small |
| Salt | To taste | Seasoning |
| Black pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
| Parmesan cheese | For serving | Freshly grated |
Why One Pot Pasta Works So Well
Cooking pasta directly in broth and cream allows it to absorb flavor while naturally thickening the sauce.
Ingredient Tips
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth texture in the Alfredo sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
Add chicken pieces and olive oil to a large Dutch oven or soup pot. Cook over medium-high heat for about 3 to 4 minutes until lightly browned.
2. Add the Garlic and Seasoning
Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
3. Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in chicken broth and half-and-half, then add the uncooked pasta.
4. Bring to a Boil
Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Simmer the Pasta
Reduce heat to medium and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally so the pasta does not stick.
6. Add the Broccoli
Stir in the broccoli florets.
7. Cook Until Tender
Cover the pot and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the pasta is cooked.
8. Season the Dish
Add salt and pepper to taste.
9. Adjust Texture
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream.
10. Serve
Serve the pasta immediately with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Helpful Cooking Tips
• Cut chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.
• Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Add broccoli toward the end so it stays bright green.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting.
• Serve immediately while the sauce is creamy.
Serving, Storing, and Making Ahead
Serving Ideas
Serve broccoli chicken Alfredo with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Meal Prep
This pasta works well for meal prep lunches because it reheats easily.
Conclusion
Broccoli Chicken Alfredo is a quick and comforting pasta dinner that delivers creamy flavor in every bite. The tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and rich garlic Alfredo sauce combine to create a satisfying meal that is easy to prepare in one pot. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family meals, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
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Broccoli Chicken Alfredo – One Pot Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Creamy broccoli chicken Alfredo made in one pot with tender chicken, pasta, garlic, and fresh broccoli for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
2 chicken breasts cut into pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic minced
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
1.5 cups chicken broth
2 cups half and half
3 cups uncooked fusilli pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
1. Cook chicken in olive oil until lightly browned.
2. Add garlic Italian seasoning and pepper flakes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and half and half.
4. Add uncooked pasta and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer about 8 minutes.
6. Add broccoli florets.
7. Cover and cook until broccoli and pasta are tender.
8. Season with salt and pepper.
9. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Stir pasta occasionally so it does not stick.
Add broth if sauce becomes too thick.
Serve immediately for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American
Frequently Asked Questions
Can other pasta shapes be used?
Yes, penne, rotini, or farfalle work well.
Can milk replace half-and-half?
Yes, but the sauce will be lighter.
Can frozen broccoli be used?
Yes, add it during the final cooking minutes.
How do you keep Alfredo sauce creamy when reheating?
Add a splash of milk or broth while reheating.