Easy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli - One Pan!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
cut into 1-inch cubes
- to tastesalt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 or 2 cloves garlic
minced, about 1 or 2 teaspoons), (see note
- 3 cups chopped fresh broccoli
- 1 pkg. whole wheat rotini
12 oz.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups 2% milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
warmed, whipping
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan)
(more for serving, if desired
- ¼ cup minced fresh flat-leaf parsley
Directions
- 1
In a large, deep skillet that has a cover, heat butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Brown chicken until golden-brown on the outside and almost cooked through, about 5 minutes.
- 2
Add garlic and continue to cook, stirring for 1 to 2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- 3
Add broccoli, uncooked rotini, broth, and milk. Stir to combine. Cover, turn heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook covered for 8 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes (to cook pasta evenly), or until pasta is al dente.
- 4
While the pasta is cooking, warm the cream up. Pour it into a measuring cup or microwave safe container. Heat it in the microwave at 50% power for a minute or so, or until warm. It doesn't have to be hot, just take the chill out.
- 5
Uncover and reduce heat to low. Add warmed cream, Parmesan, and parsley. Cook until Parmesan is melted and sauce has thickened slightly.
- 6
If desired, serve garnished with more cheese and parsley.
Easy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli - One Pan!
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 55 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a comforting bowl of creamy pasta without the usual fuss or heavy feeling? This Easy Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is your answer, delivering rich flavors in a single pan for a meal that truly feels like a weeknight win.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines by tackling a classic in an ingenious way: it’s made entirely in one pan, significantly cutting down on cleanup. What’s more, it achieves the indulgent taste of Alfredo while keeping the calories lighter than traditional versions. It truly is a case of "too good to be true" actually being true!
What to Expect
Imagine tender cubes of boneless, skinless chicken breast nestled amidst al dente whole wheat rotini, all coated in a velvety, lighter Alfredo sauce. Bright green, crisp-tender broccoli florets are perfectly integrated, adding a welcome freshness and textural contrast to each bite. The warmth of minced garlic and a delicate finish of fresh parsley elevate this dish, making it both hearty and satisfying without feeling overly heavy.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to adjust the garlic to your preference; the recipe suggests 1 to 2 cloves depending on how much you love that aromatic kick. While whole wheat rotini is specified, other short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli would work beautifully. For extra cheesiness, feel free to add more freshly grated Parmesan when serving.
Serving & Context
This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a wholesome, delicious meal without a mountain of dishes. Serve it as a stand-alone star, or pair it with a simple side salad and crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the luscious sauce. It’s a complete meal that the whole family will appreciate.