Creamy, comforting, and full of flavor — this Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the perfect dish when you want something that feels indulgent but still comes together easily. With juicy grilled chicken, tender broccoli florets, and penne pasta all tossed in a velvety Alfredo sauce, it’s a meal that satisfies both weeknight hunger and weekend cravings.

This recipe delivers restaurant-style quality right at home without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, the golden-browned chicken paired with fresh greens and cheesy pasta creates a rich, savory experience that never fails to please. Get ready to fall in love with this wholesome classic.

Why You’ll Love This Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

It’s a one-bowl wonder: creamy, cheesy, and protein-packed.
Ready in under 40 minutes — ideal for busy nights.
Balanced with veggies and carbs, it feels indulgent but nourishing.
Leftovers? Even better the next day.
Great for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly here. They cook evenly, hold seasoning well, and slice beautifully for serving over pasta. If you prefer a juicier bite, boneless thighs are also a great option. You can even use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a shortcut if time is tight. Grilling or pan-searing gives the best golden finish and flavor.

Ingredients for the Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Each ingredient in this dish plays a role in building flavor and texture, creating that creamy, cheesy, and satisfying experience we all crave.

Chicken breasts – The protein hero, seasoned and pan-seared to juicy perfection.
Broccoli florets – Adds freshness, color, and a nutritional boost to the creamy pasta.
Penne pasta – Perfect for soaking up the Alfredo sauce in every bite.
Butter – Forms the rich base of the sauce and helps cook the garlic.
Garlic – Brings bold aromatic flavor into the Alfredo sauce.
Heavy cream – Creates that signature silky-smooth Alfredo texture.
Parmesan cheese – Adds nutty, salty richness and helps thicken the sauce.
Salt & pepper – Simple but essential for seasoning the entire dish.
Olive oil – Used for cooking the chicken with a golden crust.
Parsley (optional) – For a fresh, herbaceous finishing touch.

How To Make the Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes per side. Let rest, then slice.

Step 2: Boil Pasta and Blanch Broccoli

Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of boiling, add broccoli florets to the pot. Drain both together and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli into the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the sauce.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Top the creamy pasta with sliced grilled chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

How to Serve and Store Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

This pasta dish serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. Serve it hot straight from the pan, topped with the sliced chicken and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if you like.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the saucy texture. It also reheats well in the microwave for a quick lunch.

What to Serve With Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta?

Garlic Bread

The buttery, crispy texture of garlic bread complements the creamy pasta perfectly.

Caesar Salad

A cool and crunchy Caesar salad brings balance and a tangy contrast.

Roasted Vegetables

Add more color and nutrition with a medley of roasted bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini.

Lemon Herb Asparagus

A light, zesty side that cuts through the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

Sparkling Water or Lemonade

Keep it simple and refreshing with a bubbly or citrusy drink.

White Wine

A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the dish.

Bruschetta

Tomato and basil-topped bruschetta offers a bright, herby bite as a starter.

Caprese Skewers

Easy and elegant, these mini skewers of mozzarella, tomato, and basil are great for gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it slightly before adding it to the boiling pasta water for the last couple of minutes.

What pasta shapes can I substitute?

Penne is great, but you can also use fettuccine, rotini, or rigatoni — anything that holds the sauce well will work.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and make sure your Parmesan and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How can I make it lighter?

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a light cooking cream, and use less cheese. You can also use grilled chicken breast with less oil.

Is it freezer-friendly?

The pasta is best fresh, but you can freeze it. Just know the sauce may separate slightly when reheated. Add a splash of milk or cream while warming to smooth it out.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you spice it up? Swap the broccoli for spinach?

I love seeing your versions of this dish. Questions are always welcome — let’s help each other create something delicious.

Find more of my recipes on Pinterest: Life With Livia on Pinterest

Conclusion

Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the kind of dish that delivers every single time. With juicy grilled chicken, fresh greens, and that luxurious Alfredo sauce hugging every bite of pasta, it’s comfort food you’ll come back to again and again.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or serving guests, this recipe brings both simplicity and satisfaction to the table. Enjoy!

Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Author: Livia Scott
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and loaded with juicy grilled chicken and tender broccoli, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne. It’s a quick dinner solution that feels like a restaurant-quality meal. Whether you’re looking for quick breakfast-for-dinner ideas, easy dinner inspiration, or healthy snack-style meal prep, this dish is versatile, satisfying, and family-approved. Great for easy recipe nights, food ideas for guests, or weekly dinner ideas — this pasta recipe checks all the boxes!

Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden and fully cooked, about 6–7 minutes per side. Let rest and slice.

3. Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente. In the last 2 minutes, add broccoli florets to the pot. Drain both and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.

5. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Toss cooked pasta and broccoli into the sauce. Mix until well coated.

7. Plate the pasta and top with sliced grilled chicken. Garnish with parsley if desired.

8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic and lemon juice before cooking.

Don’t overcook the broccoli — a slight crunch keeps the texture perfect.

Add red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like your Alfredo with a kick.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 635
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 490mg
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 39g
Cholesterol: 125mg

Keywords: easy dinner, chicken pasta, creamy pasta, weeknight meal, healthy comfort food