Heavenly Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli -

If you’re looking for a creamy and delicious dinner option that combines rich flavors and nutritional benefits, look no further than Heavenly Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incorporates the beneficial green goodness of broccoli, making it a balanced meal that everyone will love.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Heavenly Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is a delightful combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked fettuccine, and vibrant broccoli florets all enveloped in a luscious Alfredo sauce. The creamy base, enhanced by the aromatic garlic and rich Parmesan, creates a dish that is comforting yet elegant enough for special occasions. Additionally, this recipe is relatively simple and quick to prepare, taking just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a dinner party with friends.

Pro Tips for Making Heavenly Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli

Cook Your Pasta Al Dente: For the best texture, cook your fettuccine until al dente; it should still have a slight bite since it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot Alfredo sauce.
Season Your Chicken Well: Don’t skimp on seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking; it enhances the flavor of the entire dish.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese make a significant difference in flavor. If possible, grate the Parmesan yourself for a creamier texture.
Customize Your Veggies: While broccoli is great, feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to increase the color and nutrition of your dish.
Make It Lower Calorie: For a lighter version, consider substituting the double cream with a mixture of milk and cornstarch to achieve a similar sauce without the extra calories.

Ingredients

This creamy dish is packed with wholesome ingredients. Below are the measurements you’ll need to prepare this delightful meal for four servings:

Chicken & Pasta:

2 boneless chicken breasts, cut into strips
300g fettuccine
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Alfredo Sauce:

4 cloves garlic, finely minced
3 tablespoons butter
1 ½ cups double cream
1 cup grated Parmesan
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. With 3 minutes remaining in the cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This method ensures your broccoli is perfectly tender but still vibrant in color.

Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the cut chicken strips with salt and pepper, then add them to the heated skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, reduce the heat to low and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes or until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.

Step 4: Pour the double cream into the skillet with the garlic and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the dried Italian seasoning and optional nutmeg. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until it slightly thickens.

Step 5: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring it melts beautifully into the sauce. Continue stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 6: Finally, return the cooked chicken and drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together until each piece of fettuccine is coated with the creamy Alfredo sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve immediately, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Heavenly Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli hot and fresh!

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this dish?

Yes! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo dishes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and replace it with tofu or add more vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply substitute the fettuccine with a gluten-free pasta alternative, such as chickpea pasta or brown rice pasta, to make it gluten-free.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring back its creamy consistency when you’re ready to serve.

What sides pair well with this dish?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed green beans for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

Heavenly Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings together creamy flavors with wholesome ingredients. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. With its ease of preparation and delightful taste, you can make every meal feel extraordinary. So, gather your ingredients and unleash your inner chef with this comforting Alfredo classic!