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Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the richness of Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli. It is a comforting meal perfect for any day of the week. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it is sure to please the whole family.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it combines protein, vegetables, and carbs into one delicious meal. Second, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights. Lastly, the creamy Alfredo sauce adds a touch of indulgence that everyone loves.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Ingredients:

12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Add the broccoli florets in the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add the cooked chicken and stir for a couple of minutes to heat through.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing to combine.
Serve warm and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Serve your Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta warm on a plate or in a bowl. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top for added flavor and color.

How to Store Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warm.

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta

Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
For a healthier option, you can use whole grain pasta.
Make sure not to overcook the broccoli; it should be bright green and tender.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more cheese or spices.

Variation

You can customize this dish by adding other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower-fat cream alternative.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe without chicken?
Yes! You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables instead.

2. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

3. Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta?
It’s best to eat it fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can freeze them. Just be aware that the cream sauce may separate when reheated.