If you’re craving a creamy, comforting pasta dish that balances protein, fresh veggies, and indulgent flavor, this Alfredo pasta recipe with chicken and vegetables is your new go-to. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend feast, this recipe brings together tender chicken breast, vibrant seasonal vegetables, and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce that’s rich without being overwhelming.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this dish is straightforward yet impressive enough to serve guests. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies while satisfying those creamy pasta cravings.
The mix of sautéed chicken and crisp vegetables creates a delightful contrast in every bite, while the sauce ties everything together with its velvety texture and savory notes. You’ll love how easy it is to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices.
So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this delicious Alfredo pasta that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Alfredo pasta recipe is a perfect blend of creamy indulgence and wholesome nutrition. Unlike store-bought Alfredo sauces, our homemade version uses fresh ingredients and avoids preservatives, giving you a cleaner, more vibrant flavor.
The addition of chicken provides lean protein, making the dish filling and balanced.
Vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and spinach add color, texture, and essential nutrients, making this meal well-rounded and satisfying. The recipe is also highly adaptable, allowing you to swap veggies or add herbs to suit your taste.
Plus, it’s ready in under 40 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy cooks who don’t want to compromise on taste or health.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta (or your favorite pasta)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Colander for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Grater for Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon butter. Toss in the broccoli florets and bell pepper slices. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp. Add the spinach last and cook for another 1-2 minutes until wilted. Remove vegetables and set aside with chicken.
- Make the Alfredo sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining butter to the skillet and melt. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add cheese and seasoning: Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Combine all ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. Then add the cooked pasta and gently mix until well combined and heated through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips & Variations
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use a low-fat milk and cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
Try adding mushrooms or zucchini along with the other vegetables for extra variety. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian take—check out our Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals for some inspiration.
Freshly grated Parmesan is key for a silky, flavorful sauce, but if you’re in a pinch, pre-grated cheese works too. Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water—it helps loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
For an herby twist, sprinkle chopped basil or thyme into the sauce. If you love a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes complements the creaminess nicely.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 620 kcal |
| Protein | 42 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 580 mg |
| Calcium | 300 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This Alfredo pasta with chicken and vegetables pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread or warm focaccia on the side makes the meal even more comforting.
A chilled glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, complements the creamy sauce perfectly. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with lemon slices to refresh the palate.
If you want to add a touch of freshness, sprinkle extra Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. This brightens the dish and cuts through the richness.
Conclusion
This Alfredo pasta recipe with chicken and vegetables is a crowd-pleaser that delivers on flavor, nutrition, and convenience. It’s rich and creamy without being heavy, thanks to the fresh ingredients and balanced mix of protein and veggies.
Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a dish that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen.
By making your own Alfredo sauce, you control the quality and taste, ensuring every bite is as delicious as possible. Plus, the recipe’s flexibility means you can tailor it to your preferences or what’s available in your fridge.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out other great dishes like Chicken and Roasted Veg Recipes for Easy Healthy Meals and explore vegetarian options with our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion.
Give this recipe a try tonight and enjoy a delicious, homemade pasta meal that feels like a special occasion every time!
📖 Recipe Card: Alfredo Pasta with Chicken and Vegetables
Description: A creamy and delicious Alfredo pasta dish loaded with tender chicken and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat; cook chicken until browned and cooked through.
- Remove chicken and set aside; in the same pan, sauté garlic, broccoli, and mushrooms until tender.
- Add butter to the pan and melt, then pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and nutmeg; cook until sauce thickens.
- Return chicken to the pan and mix with the sauce and vegetables.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce, chicken, and vegetables; toss well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 650 kcal | Protein: 45 g | Fat: 35 g | Carbs: 45 g
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