Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Broccoli Alfredo, a dish that brings together succulent chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a delightful balance of taste and nutrition. With its easy preparation and satisfying flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– Fresh parsley for garnish
– Olive oil for cooking
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g fat, 35g carbohydrates, and 30g protein. This is a hearty meal that provides essential nutrients while satisfying your taste buds.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
- Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- Add butter to the same skillet; sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine; bring to a simmer.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
- Add broccoli florets to the sauce, cooking for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Combine the cooked fettuccine with the sauce, then top with sliced chicken.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the sauce.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness; use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through.
- Don’t let the sauce boil after adding cheese, as it can become grainy.
- Make sure to season your chicken well for maximum flavor.
- Using cold cream can cause the sauce to separate; let it sit at room temperature before adding.
- Overcooking the broccoli can make it mushy; add it towards the end of the cooking process.
Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a warm, aromatic touch.
- Experiment with different types of pasta for a unique twist.
- For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Broccoli Alfredo ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time, but it’s best to combine them just before serving to maintain the dish’s creaminess.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and sour cream for a lighter option.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of cheese, and add more vegetables like zucchini or carrots.
Can I freeze Chicken Broccoli Alfredo?
Freezing is not recommended due to the sauce’s texture changes. It may separate upon reheating.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy sauce and tender chicken are usually a hit with kids. You can adjust the seasoning to their taste.
Conclusion
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo is a rich and satisfying dish that combines simple ingredients to create a meal that pleases everyone at the table. With its creamy texture and delightful flavor, it’s a great addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy the process of making this classic dish and savor every bite!
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet.
- Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- Add butter to the same skillet; sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine; bring to a simmer.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
- Add broccoli florets to the sauce, cooking for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Combine the cooked fettuccine with the sauce, then top with sliced chicken.
