Dinner · Pasta · Italian-American

Chicken Alfredo With Roasted Broccoli

Enjoy this classic chicken alfredo featuring juicy seared chicken and oven-roasted broccoli tossed in a silky parmesan cream sauce.

4.6(494 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Chicken Alfredo With Roasted Broccoli — Italian-American Dinner served and photographed from above
Prep
15 min
Cook
25 min
Difficulty
Easy
Serves
4

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Initial Prep

  1. 1

    Preheat Oven

    Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) for the broccoli.

    Tip: High heat ensures the broccoli chars without becoming mushy.

  2. 2

    Boil Water

    Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a boil.

    Tip: The water should taste like the sea to season the pasta internally.

How to Make Chicken Alfredo With Roasted Broccoli

Total time: 40 min · Yields 4 servings

  1. 1

    Roast the Broccoli

    Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a large sheet pan. Spread them in a single layer and roast for 15 to 18 minutes until the edges are crispy and dark brown.

  2. 2

    Cook the Chicken

    Season chicken strips with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through, then remove and set aside.

  3. 3

    Boil the Pasta

    Add fettuccine to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions for al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve 120 ml of pasta water before draining.

  4. 4

    Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

    In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium. Add the heavy cream and butter cubes. Whisk constantly for 5 minutes until the sauce begins to simmer and thicken slightly. Stir in the minced garlic and nutmeg.

  5. 5

    Emulsify the Cheese

    Turn the heat to low. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmigiano-Reggiano a handful at a time until completely smooth. If the sauce is too thick, whisk in a splash of the reserved pasta water.

  6. 6

    Combine and Serve

    Add the cooked pasta, seared chicken, and roasted broccoli to the skillet. Toss gently with tongs until every strand is coated in the cream sauce. Serve immediately.

Chef's Tips

  • Always grate your own cheese from a block; pre-shredded cheese is coated in potato starch and will make your sauce grainy.
  • Do not let the cream reach a rolling boil or it may separate.
  • Warm your serving bowls to keep the sauce silky as you eat.

What to Serve with Chicken Alfredo With Roasted Broccoli

The garlic butter sauce is the star — pick sides that soak it up or balance the richness.

  • Serve in wide, shallow pasta bowls.
  • Pair with a crisp Caesar salad.
  • Accompany with warm garlic knots.

Recipe Variations

Once you've mastered the base recipe, try these popular twists.

Variation

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Variation

Substitute chicken for sautéed shrimp or scallops.

Variation

Use gluten-free fettuccine for a celiac-friendly version.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Further reading

Frequently asked questions

Why is my chicken alfredo sauce grainy?

Grainy sauce is usually caused by using pre-shredded cheese containing anti-clumping agents or adding the cheese while the sauce is boiling. Use freshly grated cheese and incorporate it over low heat.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

While you can use milk, the sauce will be much thinner. You would need to create a roux with flour and butter first to achieve a similar thickness.

What is the best pasta for chicken alfredo?

Fettuccine is the traditional choice because its flat, wide surface area holds the heavy cream sauce effectively.

How do I roast broccoli so it isn't soggy?

Ensure the broccoli is completely dry after washing and do not crowd the pan. Space allows the moisture to evaporate so the florets crisp up.

Can I make this chicken alfredo recipe ahead of time?

Alfredo is best served fresh. If you must make it ahead, store the sauce and pasta separately and recombine over low heat with extra cream.

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