There are few dishes as universally loved and comforting as Creamy Chicken Alfredo — and this version, elevated with crisp-tender broccoli and perfectly cooked fettuccine, takes the classic to a new level of flavor and freshness.
It’s rich yet balanced, indulgent yet wholesome, and it comes together in under 30 minutes.

This recipe combines tender chicken, velvety Parmesan cream sauce, and earthy broccoli florets tossed with ribbons of al dente pasta. Every element harmonizes: the savory chicken adds heartiness, the sauce provides that signature Alfredo decadence, and the broccoli brings a subtle brightness that cuts through the richness.

Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or serving guests a restaurant-quality meal, this dish is always a winner.

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Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Calories: ~620 kcal per serving

• Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken

• 250 g fettuccine pasta 🍝

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🐔

• 1 tablespoon olive oil 🫒

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 🧂

For the Sauce and Broccoli

• 2 cups broccoli florets 🥦

• 2 tablespoons butter 🧈

• 3 garlic cloves, minced 🧄

• 1 cup heavy cream 🥛

• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) 🌿

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil — at least 4 liters of water for 250 g of pasta. Generously salting the water (about 1 tablespoon per liter) ensures the fettuccine is seasoned from within.

Add the pasta and cook according to package directions, usually about 10–12 minutes, until al dente (tender but still slightly firm to the bite). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Once done, reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water for later adjustments, then drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

While the pasta cooks, steam the broccoli florets for 4–5 minutes until they are bright green and just tender.
Avoid overcooking — the goal is a vibrant color and slight crunch that balances the creamy sauce later.

Set the broccoli aside, uncovered, so it doesn’t over-soften.

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Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
You can check doneness by cutting into the thickest part — the juices should run clear and the inside should no longer be pink.

Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Resting helps retain the juices, keeping the chicken tender and moist.

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Step 4: Build the Alfredo Sauce

Using the same skillet (do not wipe it clean — the brown bits add flavor), reduce heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt, scraping up any bits left from cooking the chicken.

Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden — this step releases its aroma and infuses the butter with flavor.

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Allow it to come to a low simmer for 2–3 minutes. The sauce should begin to thicken slightly as the cream reduces.

Next, gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed.

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Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked fettuccine directly into the creamy sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Fold in the steamed broccoli, making sure the florets are well distributed.

If the sauce thickens too much, add a little more of the reserved pasta water — it will help emulsify the sauce, giving it a silky texture that clings beautifully to the noodles.

Arrange the sliced chicken on top and toss gently so every bite has a bit of everything — pasta, chicken, and broccoli enveloped in luscious cream.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Plate the pasta in warm bowls. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve immediately while hot — the sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools, so it’s best enjoyed right away.

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📝 Notes & Variations

• Lighter Option: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter yet still creamy sauce.

• Add Heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a gentle kick and balances the creaminess.

• Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine before the cream for a subtle tang and depth.

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and double the broccoli or add mushrooms and spinach for a hearty vegetarian Alfredo.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free fettuccine or rice noodles instead of traditional pasta.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but for a complete meal, pair it with:

• A fresh garden salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

• Garlic bread or focaccia for soaking up every last bit of sauce.

• A glass of crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the cream and cheese.

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🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving directly as it may cause the sauce to separate.

• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may curdle when thawed.

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🧠 Chef’s Tips

• Season as you go: Always taste your sauce before adding the pasta — Parmesan brings saltiness, so adjust carefully.

• Use fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated varieties contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

• Perfect chicken sear: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning.

• Save the pasta water: It’s the secret to a silky, restaurant-style sauce.

• Texture balance: The crunch of broccoli against creamy pasta keeps the dish from feeling too heavy.

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🌿 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~620 kcal

• Protein: 40 g

• Fat: 28 g

• Saturated Fat: 16 g

• Carbohydrates: 45 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sugar: 3 g

• Sodium: 600 mg

Balanced, nourishing, and satisfying, this dish provides lean protein from chicken, healthy fats from olive oil, and essential vitamins from broccoli. It’s comfort food you can feel good about.

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💡 Why This Recipe Works

1. Balanced flavors: The nutty Parmesan, mild cream, and garlicky undertones create depth without overpowering the dish.

2. Texture contrast: Creamy sauce, firm pasta, juicy chicken, and tender broccoli bring harmony to every bite.

3. Quick but luxurious: You can prepare this restaurant-quality meal in under 35 minutes.

4. Family-friendly: Loved by both adults and kids — mild, creamy, and comforting.

5. Customizable: Works with shrimp, salmon, or even roasted vegetables as substitutes.