Introduction:
There’s nothing quite like the rich, creamy taste of homemade Alfredo sauce paired with juicy garlic-parmesan chicken. This Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Alfredo & Broccoli Bowl is a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or when you’re craving something indulgent. The broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and balances out the richness of the sauce. Best of all — it’s all made in under an hour.
🛒 Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional for color)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
For the Pasta & Broccoli:
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- Salt for boiling water
Optional Garnishes:
- Extra grated Parmesan
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Cracked black pepper
🍳 Instructions:
🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken breasts and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan over chicken during the last minute of cooking to form a crust.
- Remove from pan and let rest. Then slice into strips or cubes.
🔹 Step 2: Cook the Pasta & Broccoli
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
- Drain pasta and broccoli together. Set aside.
🔹 Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (do not brown).
- Pour in the heavy cream, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
- Simmer gently for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until sauce thickens.
🔹 Step 4: Combine Everything
- In a large bowl or skillet, toss the cooked pasta and broccoli with the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated.
- Add in the sliced garlic-Parmesan chicken.
- Toss gently to combine, or serve chicken on top for presentation.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, and cracked pepper.
- Serve with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad.
👨🍳 Method Summary (Quick Overview):
- Season and cook chicken → Add Parmesan crust.
- Boil pasta and broccoli together.
- Prepare creamy Alfredo sauce with garlic and Parmesan.
- Combine pasta, broccoli, sauce, and chicken.
- Garnish and serve hot.