Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine

Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine is one of my favorite comfort food dinners—rich, satisfying, and full of flavor. Tender fettuccine noodles are coated in a silky garlic-Parmesan Alfredo sauce, mixed with juicy chicken and crisp-tender broccoli. It’s a complete meal in one dish that always feels like a restaurant-quality dinner made right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish brings together everything I want in a creamy pasta—hearty protein, a velvety sauce, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s indulgent without being too heavy, and it’s a great way to sneak some veggies into a dinner that still feels decadent. Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a solid go-to for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 oz fettuccine

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), sliced

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 3 cups broccoli florets

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1½ cups heavy cream

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Reserved pasta water, as needed

• Fresh parsley or extra Parmesan, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine until just al dente. I add the broccoli florets during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. I reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. While the pasta cooks, I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper, then sear it in the pan until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. I transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.

3. In the same skillet, I lower the heat and add butter and garlic. I sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.

4. I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. I stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. I return the cooked chicken, fettuccine, and broccoli to the skillet. I toss everything together in the sauce, adding a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it if needed.

6. I season to taste with more salt and pepper, then serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I swap the chicken for shrimp or leave it out for a vegetarian version. I’ve also added mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies. If I want a lighter version, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For a gluten-free option, I just use gluten-free pasta and double-check the cheese and seasonings.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life. I stir often while reheating to keep the sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, I add it directly to the pasta water near the end of cooking. It works just as well as fresh.

How do I keep the Alfredo sauce from clumping?

I make sure the heat is low when adding cheese and stir constantly. If the sauce gets too thick, a little reserved pasta water helps smooth it out.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but I’ve made it a few hours ahead and kept it warm on low heat. I just add extra cream or pasta water before serving to refresh it.

What pasta can I use instead of fettuccine?

Linguine, penne, or tagliatelle all work great in this dish.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

I don’t recommend freezing it because the creamy sauce can separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli & Fettuccine is a rich, flavorful pasta dish that brings comfort and elegance to the dinner table. I love how it combines protein, vegetables, and pasta into one perfect meal—and how quickly it all comes together. Whether I’m feeding a family or just craving something cozy, this recipe always hits the mark.