Creamy Chicken Broccoli Alfredo (Printable Version)

Tender chicken, pasta and broccoli in velvety Parmesan sauce - ready in 30 minutes with just one pot for minimal cleanup.

# Everything You’ll Need:

→ Protein

01 - 20-24 oz boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced into ½-1 inch cubes

→ Aromatics & Seasonings

02 - 1 teaspoon olive oil
03 - 2-2½ teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
04 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - Salt and pepper to taste
06 - 3-4 garlic cloves, minced

→ Pasta & Vegetables

07 - 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine)
08 - 2-3 cups broccoli florets

→ Sauce

09 - 2-3 cups chicken broth or stock
10 - 1¼ cups heavy whipping cream or half and half
11 - 4 oz (about 1½ cups) freshly grated Parmesan reggiano cheese

# Steps to Cook:

01 - Place a skillet, pot, or Dutch oven on the stove at medium heat. Add the olive oil, diced chicken, 1-1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes until chicken is lightly seared.
02 - Adjust heat to medium-high. Add the broth and heavy cream to the pot with the chicken. Bring to a gentle boil.
03 - Once the mixture begins to bubble, add the pasta, allowing it to wilt down without breaking it. Once fully covered in sauce, reduce heat to low and cover the pot. If pasta isn't completely submerged, add additional broth as needed.
04 - Simmer the pasta for 6 minutes, then remove the lid and add the broccoli. Return the lid and continue simmering for an additional 6-8 minutes or until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
05 - Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and minced garlic, folding gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings with remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper as needed.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Bone broth adds more protein, though any broth or even water will work in this recipe.
02 - Half and half or milk can substitute for heavy cream but will produce a thinner sauce.
03 - Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties coated with anti-caking agents.
04 - When reheating leftovers, add a splash of broth or cream and heat gently while stirring for best results.
05 - A sprinkle of Cajun seasoning adds excellent flavor dimension to this dish.

Go Back