Description
Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Boil the pasta according to package instructions. During the last 2 minutes, add broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Step 3: Make it Creamy
Stir in heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add cooked chicken, drained pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything to coat evenly in the Alfredo sauce.
Step 5: Cheesy Finish
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes on low heat until the cheese is melted.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 490 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
For a foolproof Alfredo, follow these detailed steps. Begin by gathering all ingredients. Use a large pot of well-salted water for the pasta. When adding the broccoli in the final two minutes, ensure the florets are bite-sized for even cooking. For the sauce, use medium-low heat to melt the butter and gently cook the garlic without browning it. When simmering the cream, do not let it reach a rolling boil. Remove the skillet from the heat when whisking in the Parmesan to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy. Finally, when combining, ensure the skillet is large enough to toss everything together without making a mess.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy pasta is a complete meal, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a restaurant-style touch, serve it in warmed bowls. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce. If you want to add more color, consider topping with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or serving with roasted cherry tomatoes on the side.
How-to Summary
In short: cook pasta, adding broccoli at the end. Sauté garlic in butter, then simmer with cream. Off heat, whisk in Parmesan to create the sauce. Combine sauce with drained pasta, broccoli, and chicken in the skillet. Top with mozzarella, cover to melt, garnish, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? For a true Alfredo texture, heavy cream is essential. Milk will not thicken properly and will result in a thin, less creamy sauce.
How can I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency, as the pasta will absorb sauce when chilled.
Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes. Thaw and pat it dry first, or add it frozen directly to the pasta pot, extending the cook time by 1-2 minutes.
What’s the best chicken to use? Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. You can also quickly pan-sear or bake two chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper, then dice.
How do I prevent the sauce from breaking? Keep the heat gentle. Never boil the sauce vigorously after adding the cheese. Using freshly grated Parmesan (not pre-shredded, which contains anti-caking agents) also helps create a smooth emulsion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using pre-shredded Parmesan cheese, which can lead to a grainy sauce.
- Overcooking the garlic, which makes it bitter.
- Boiling the cream sauce, which can cause it to separate or scorch.
- Overcooking the broccoli, turning it mushy. It should be tender-crisp.
- Letting the finished pasta sit too long before serving, as the sauce will continue to thicken.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo is the ultimate quick and satisfying dinner. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in under 30 minutes. Its rich, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli make it a crowd-pleasing comfort food classic perfect for any busy weeknight. Enjoy your delicious creation!