Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo: A Simple Yet Elegant Recipe
Are you craving a comforting yet sophisticated dish? Look no further than this creamy chicken broccoli Alfredo recipe. This classic pasta dish is easier to make than you think and delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Why This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Recipe Stands Out
This isn't your average Alfredo sauce. We're going beyond the basic recipe by incorporating fresh broccoli florets and tender chicken breast for a more nutritious and flavorful experience. We've also focused on creating a perfectly creamy sauce without the use of heavy cream, making it a lighter yet equally satisfying option.
Key Ingredients for Success
- Fettuccine pasta: The wide, flat noodles perfectly capture the creamy Alfredo sauce. Feel free to substitute with other pasta shapes like linguine or tagliatelle.
- Chicken breast: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease of cooking and tender results. Cubing the chicken ensures it cooks evenly and integrates seamlessly into the sauce.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant green color, a touch of bitterness to cut through the richness, and crucial nutrients. Steaming or blanching the broccoli beforehand helps retain its bright green color and crisp-tender texture.
- Parmesan cheese: A high-quality Parmesan cheese is essential for that authentic Alfredo flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan is always best.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a pungent aroma and flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Mastering the Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
- Prepare the Chicken: Season cubed chicken breast with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sauté in a large skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through and lightly browned. Set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Blanch the Broccoli: Steam or blanch broccoli florets until tender-crisp.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the Alfredo sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta, adding a little pasta water if needed to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley (optional) and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations for Your Chicken Broccoli Alfredo
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add some veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or peas.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
- Meal prep friendly: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prepping.
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