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Homemade Lemon Fettuccine Alfredo with Grilled Chicken and Broccoli photo

Lemon Fettuccine Alfredo with Grilled Chicken and Broccoli

This Lemon Fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy, zesty delight! Topped with grilled chicken and vibrant broccoli, it’s a complete meal that impresses!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Chicken, Creamy, Easy, Pasta, Quick
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 12 oz dry fettuccine pasta
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts grilled and sliced into strips
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (from 1 lb broccoli crowns)
  • 2 Tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 Tbsp flour
  • 1 3/4 cups milk (preferably 1%)
  • Salt to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 3 oz light or regular cream cheese diced into cubes
  • 1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan plus more for serving
  • 3 Tbsp heavy cream
  • 1 Tbsp lemon zest plus more for serving
  • 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  • Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
  • In the same pot, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes, just until tender and bright green. Drain the broccoli and set aside with the pasta.
  • While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from the grill and slice into strips.
  • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute, forming a roux.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken. Add the cream cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
  • Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  • Add the cooked fettuccine and broccoli to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Finally, add the grilled chicken strips on top and gently mix everything together.
  • Divide the Lemon Fettuccine Alfredo with Grilled Chicken and Broccoli among plates. Top with additional Parmesan cheese and lemon zest for a fresh finish.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Grill or grill pan
  • Large Skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Colander

Notes

  • For a more intense lemon flavor, feel free to add additional lemon juice or zest.
  • Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Leftover Alfredo sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.