
Pan-Seared Chicken with Creamy Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
15min
35min
3
720
Chef's Note
For the best flavor development, don't rush the chicken searing process. A properly developed fond (those brown bits on the bottom of the pan) is the foundation of the sauce's depth. If you have leftovers, add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to revive the sauce.
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Ingredients
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
8 ounces fettuccine pasta
3 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic cloves
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
- 2
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
- 3
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- 4
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Sear for 6-7 minutes on the first side without moving, until golden brown with a nice crust.
- 5
Flip chicken and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes.
- 6
While the chicken cooks, add fettuccine to the boiling water and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes.
- 7
During the last 3 minutes of pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pasta water to blanch them.
- 8
Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together in a colander.
- 9
In the same skillet used for chicken (do not clean it), reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons butter.
- 10
Add minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- 11
Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate the flavorful browned bits from the chicken (fond).
- 12
Simmer the cream for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
- 13
Gradually whisk in 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- 14
Add 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Stir to combine.
- 15
If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, to reach desired consistency.
- 16
Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce, tossing gently to coat evenly.
- 17
Slice the rested chicken breasts into 1/2-inch strips across the grain.
- 18
Divide the pasta and broccoli among three plates, top with sliced chicken, and sprinkle with lemon zest and fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
720
52g
45g
38g
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