Introduction
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Alfredo is a luscious, Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, crisp-tender broccoli, and a velvety Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a perfect balance of hearty protein, vegetables, and creamy comfort — ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
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Origin and Cultural Significance
The origins of Alfredo sauce trace back to Rome, Italy, where restaurateur Alfredo di Lelio first created the dish in the early 1900s for his pregnant wife, using butter and Parmesan to comfort her. Over time, the recipe traveled to America, where chefs added cream, garlic, and proteins like chicken or shrimp to create the richer Chicken Alfredo we know today. The addition of broccoli came later, reflecting the modern emphasis on balanced meals — pairing indulgence with a touch of green nutrition.
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Ingredients Quantity
(Serves 4–5 people)
300 g (10 oz) fettuccine or any pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly
2 cups broccoli florets
3 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup milk
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, enhances creaminess)
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Optional Additions
Mushrooms – sautéed with garlic for earthy depth
Sun-dried tomatoes – add sweetness and tang
Red chili flakes – for a hint of spice
Spinach – for added greens and nutrients
Lemon zest – brightens the sauce
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Tips for Success
1. Cook pasta al dente — slightly firm, so it holds texture after mixing with sauce.
2. Reserve pasta water — a splash can loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
3. Use freshly grated Parmesan — pre-grated versions can cause grainy sauce.
4. Sear chicken well — golden edges add flavor and visual appeal.
5. Don’t overcook broccoli — keep it bright green and slightly crisp.
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Instructions
1. Cook the pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Steam or blanch broccoli:
Add broccoli to the boiling pasta water for the last 2 minutes, then remove and set aside.
3. Cook the chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. Prepare the Alfredo sauce:
In the same pan, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in cream and milk, stirring continuously. Reduce heat and simmer 3–4 minutes.
5. Add cheese:
Stir in Parmesan gradually until melted and smooth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine:
Add cooked chicken, broccoli, and pasta to the sauce. Toss until evenly coated. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen.
7. Serve:
Plate warm and garnish with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper.
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Description
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Alfredo is a silky, flavorful medley of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and golden fettuccine enveloped in a luxuriously smooth, garlicky Parmesan sauce. The balance of creaminess, slight crunch from broccoli, and the depth of Parmesan creates a comforting yet sophisticated dish that satisfies every craving.
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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 640 kcal
Protein: 40 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Fat: 30 g
Fiber: 4 g
Calcium: 25% DV
Vitamin C: 70% DV
(Values vary by ingredients used and portion size.)
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Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Alfredo blends indulgence with wholesome ingredients. The creamy sauce wraps each strand of pasta in richness, while the broccoli adds brightness and nutrients — a satisfying fusion of comfort and vitality.
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Recommendation
Serve with:
Garlic bread or toasted baguette
Crisp Caesar salad or green side salad
Chilled white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Enjoying Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta Alfredo doesn’t have to feel guilty. You can embrace healthful indulgence by:
Using whole-wheat or protein pasta for added fiber
Substituting Greek yogurt or light cream for a lighter sauce
Balancing portions with extra vegetables or a side salad
This dish celebrates the joy of creamy comfort while reminding us that balance — not restriction — is the true recipe for well-being.
