Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipes: Creamy, Comforting Dishes for Every Taste

Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is a beloved, creamy pasta dish that blends the richness of Alfredo sauce with the lean protein of chicken and the crunch of vibrant broccoli. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. In this article, we’ll share multiple variations of Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli, including step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and nutritional information, all designed to ensure you create the perfect dish every time.

What is Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli?

Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is a creamy pasta dish that combines grilled or sautéed chicken, fresh broccoli, and a velvety Alfredo sauce, typically served over fettuccine pasta. The key element in this dish is the Alfredo sauce, which is made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich and indulgent flavor profile.

Broccoli is often included to add a healthy, crunchy contrast to the creaminess of the sauce and to introduce some nutritional value. The combination of chicken, broccoli, and pasta makes this dish a well-rounded meal that appeals to a variety of tastes.

This recipe has evolved over the years, with countless variations available to suit dietary preferences or to give the dish a creative twist.

Why Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipes are So Popular

Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli has earned its place as a go-to comfort food for several reasons:

• Rich and Flavorful: The creamy Alfredo sauce envelops the chicken, broccoli, and pasta, creating a rich, indulgent dish.
• Nutritional Balance: The dish provides a good balance of protein from the chicken, fiber and vitamins from the broccoli, and carbohydrates from the pasta.
• Customizable: Chicken Alfredo can be adapted to suit various dietary needs—whether you prefer lighter alternatives, want to go meatless, or add extra veggies, this dish offers flexibility.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli

Although Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is a rich and indulgent dish, it also offers several health benefits, especially when balanced with healthy ingredients:

• Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps with muscle repair, immunity, and overall body function.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Broccoli is packed with essential vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, as well as important minerals like calcium and iron.
• Healthy Fats: The rich Alfredo sauce made with butter and Parmesan cheese provides healthy fats, though you can adjust the fat content depending on the ingredients you choose.
• Carbohydrates: Pasta provides the necessary carbohydrates for energy, though you can use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta for additional fiber and nutrients.

By incorporating lean chicken, nutrient-dense broccoli, and optional whole-grain pasta, you can make this dish both satisfying and nutritious.

Classic Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe

This classic Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a comforting dish while keeping things simple.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
2. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
   • Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Combine:
   • Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing to coat in the Alfredo sauce. Add the sliced chicken on top.
   • Stir gently to combine, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Healthy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe

Looking to lighten up your Chicken Alfredo without sacrificing flavor? This healthy version uses lighter ingredients without compromising on creaminess.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 12 ounces whole wheat fettuccine
• 2 cups steamed broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3/4 cup low-fat milk
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Slice into strips and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
   • Cook the whole wheat fettuccine according to package directions. Add the broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
   • In a skillet, sauté the garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add the milk and bring to a simmer.
   • Lower the heat and stir in Greek yogurt and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine:
   • Add the pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to combine.
5. Serve:
   • Serve with the sliced chicken on top, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Spicy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli

For those who like a bit of heat, this spicy version of Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is perfect. The heat from red pepper flakes pairs wonderfully with the creamy Alfredo sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:
   • Season chicken with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden brown and fully cooked. Slice thinly.
2. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
   • Cook the fettuccine and broccoli in a large pot, then drain.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, sauté garlic with red pepper flakes. Add the cream and chicken broth, simmering until it thickens. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine:
   • Toss the pasta, broccoli, and chicken in the Alfredo sauce. Stir until everything is well-coated.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with cilantro and serve immediately.

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Vegan Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe

This vegan version of Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli substitutes plant-based ingredients, allowing those with dietary restrictions to enjoy a creamy, flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 block of firm tofu (for vegan “chicken”)
• 12 ounces gluten-free fettuccine
• 2 cups steamed broccoli
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3/4 cup coconut milk (for the sauce)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
• 2 tablespoons vegan butter
• Garlic, salt, and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegan Chicken:
   • Press and cube the tofu. Sauté in olive oil with a pinch of salt and pepper until crispy and golden.
2. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
   • Cook the fettuccine according to package directions, adding broccoli for the last 3 minutes.
3. Make the Vegan Alfredo Sauce:
   • In a skillet, melt vegan butter and sauté garlic. Add coconut milk and nutritional yeast, stirring until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine:
   • Toss the cooked pasta and broccoli with the Alfredo sauce. Add the crispy tofu and mix well.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli and Mushrooms

For mushroom lovers, this variation adds earthy flavor and texture to the classic Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 12 ounces pasta (fettuccine or penne)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:
   • Cook the chicken breasts as usual and slice thinly.
2. Cook the Pasta and Vegetables:
   • Cook the pasta, adding the broccoli to the boiling water in the last 3 minutes. Sauté the mushrooms in olive oil until browned.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
   • Add garlic to the skillet, followed by the cream and broth. Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine:
   • Toss the pasta, broccoli, mushrooms, and chicken in the Alfredo sauce.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with extra Parmesan and serve.

One-Pot Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli

For a no-fuss, quick dinner, this One-Pot Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 12 ounces pasta
• 2 cups broccoli
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook Chicken:
   • Sauté the chicken in a large pot until cooked, then remove and slice.
2. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
   • In the same pot, add cream and broth, bringing it to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan until smooth.
3. Cook Pasta and Broccoli:
   • Add the pasta and broccoli, cooking until tender. Stir in the sliced chicken.

Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli (Using Jar Sauce)

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 jar (16 oz) Alfredo sauce (store-bought)
• 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 ounces fettuccine pasta (or pasta of choice)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
   • Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot.
2. Add the Sauce:
   • Pour the jar of Alfredo sauce over the chicken. Add chicken broth or water to help create some steam and moisture for cooking.
   • Add Italian seasoning (if using) for extra flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
   • Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The chicken should easily shred with a fork when done.
4. Prepare the Pasta:
   • About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, and set aside.
5. Add the Broccoli:
   • Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, shred the chicken in the crock pot using two forks.
   • Stir in the cooked broccoli florets. If using frozen broccoli, you can add it straight into the crock pot about 20 minutes before serving.
6. Combine with Pasta:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the crock pot and stir everything together, allowing the sauce to coat the chicken, pasta, and broccoli. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, and stir to combine.
7. Serve:
   • Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli.

Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli (Using Jar Sauce)

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 jar (16 oz) Alfredo sauce (store-bought)
• 1 cup heavy cream or milk (for a lighter version)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 1 1/2 cups frozen broccoli)
• 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
   • Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. Add the Sauce:
   • Pour the Alfredo sauce, heavy cream (or milk), and chicken broth over the chicken in the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Cook the Chicken:
   • Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Once the chicken is done, shred it with two forks right in the slow cooker.
4. Prepare the Pasta:
   • About 20-30 minutes before serving, cook your pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
5. Add the Broccoli:
   • Add the broccoli florets to the slow cooker in the last 15 minutes of cooking, allowing them to steam in the sauce until tender. If using frozen broccoli, add it at the same time.
6. Combine with Pasta:
   • Once the chicken is shredded and the broccoli is tender, add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker. Stir everything to combine and make sure the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce.
7. Finish the Dish:
   • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness and flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
8. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve your delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli. Enjoy!

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo with Jar Sauce (Quick Stovetop)

This recipe is for those who don’t have a slow cooker or want a quicker stovetop option, but still want to use jar Alfredo sauce for convenience.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 jar (16 oz) Alfredo sauce (store-bought)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
   • Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through.
3. Add the Sauce:
   • Pour the jar of Alfredo sauce into the pan with the chicken. Add chicken broth and stir well to combine. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat.
4. Add the Broccoli:
   • Add the broccoli florets to the pan, stirring to coat with the sauce. If using fresh broccoli, cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender. If using frozen broccoli, add it at the same time and cook until heated through.
5. Combine with Pasta:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the Alfredo sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce.
6. Serve:
   • Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
7. Enjoy:
   • Serve your creamy Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo immediately and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality chicken will make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Pasta should be al dente, so it holds its shape when tossed in the sauce.
• Adjust the Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to thin it out.
• Fresh Parmesan: Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Always cook chicken until it’s just done.
• Soggy Broccoli: Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should retain a little bite.
• Too Much Cream: If you use too much cream, the sauce can become too rich. Adjust to taste.

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Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be tailored to your tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer the classic version or want to try variations like the healthy or spicy options, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. With these recipes and tips, you’re ready to enjoy this creamy, comforting dish anytime you crave a flavorful meal.

FAQs

1. What to Add to a Jar of Alfredo Sauce?

To enhance jarred Alfredo sauce, add garlic, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, butter, herbs (like basil or thyme), lemon juice, black pepper, or even sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and richness.

2. How Do You Upgrade a Jar of Alfredo Sauce?

Upgrade jar Alfredo sauce by sautéing garlic and onions, adding fresh cream or milk, stirring in extra cheese, and seasoning with herbs, lemon juice, and black pepper to boost flavor.

3. How Much Pasta Should I Use for One Jar of Alfredo Sauce?

Typically, use 12 ounces of pasta for 1 jar (16 oz) of Alfredo sauce for a balanced, creamy consistency.

4. What’s the Difference Between Chicken Alfredo and Fettuccine Alfredo?

Chicken Alfredo includes chicken as the protein, while Fettuccine Alfredo refers specifically to the pasta (fettuccine) served with the creamy Alfredo sauce, without necessarily including chicken.