Nora
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of creamy Alfredo pasta topped with tender, golden grilled chicken and a sprinkle of crispy broccoli. This dish elevates the classic chicken Alfredo with a vibrant twist: a dollop of spicy feta cream that adds a zesty kick, and a Parmesan broccoli crunch that brings texture and flavor to every bite.
Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for the family or want a restaurant-worthy meal at home, this recipe delivers a balance of creaminess, spice, and crunch that’s hard to resist. It’s a meal that satisfies comfort food cravings while feeling just gourmet enough for a special evening.
Why You’ll Love This Pesto Chicken Alfredo
- A creamy Alfredo base paired with the fresh flavor of basil pesto.
- Crispy Parmesan-roasted broccoli adds a savory crunch.
- Spicy feta cream gives the dish a bold twist.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
- Comfort food meets a touch of elegance in under an hour.
What Makes This Chicken Alfredo So Special?
The secret to this dish lies in the combination of layers: tender chicken coated in a light pesto glaze, pasta tossed in luscious Alfredo sauce, and the finishing touch of spicy feta cream that melts into every forkful. The roasted broccoli with Parmesan provides a crispy, nutty contrast that keeps each bite exciting.
Ingredients for Pesto Chicken Alfredo with Spicy Feta Cream & Parmesan Broccoli Crunch
Before starting, gather these fresh ingredients. Each component brings its own layer of flavor to this vibrant dish:
- Chicken Breasts – Lean protein that absorbs the pesto beautifully.
- Fettuccine Pasta – Classic choice for holding creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Alfredo Sauce – The creamy, rich base of the dish.
- Basil Pesto – Infuses the chicken with herbaceous, garlicky flavor.
- Feta Cheese – Key to the spicy feta cream, bringing tang and creaminess.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Adds the heat to the feta cream.
- Broccoli Florets – Roasted to perfection for a crunchy side.
- Parmesan Cheese – Melts over the broccoli for a nutty, crisp finish.
- Olive Oil & Butter – Essential for sautéing, roasting, and layering flavor.
- Salt & Black Pepper – To season every element of the dish.
How To Make Pesto Chicken Alfredo with Spicy Feta Cream & Parmesan Broccoli Crunch
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a light coating of pesto. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and let it rest before slicing.
Step 2: Roast the Broccoli
Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan. Roast in the oven at 400°F until crispy and lightly golden.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Boil the fettuccine in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later.
Step 4: Make the Spicy Feta Cream
Blend feta cheese with a splash of cream and red pepper flakes until smooth. This will be dolloped on top of the pasta for a spicy, creamy finish.
Step 5: Combine the Alfredo Pasta
In a large skillet, heat the Alfredo sauce and toss in the cooked fettuccine. Add a spoonful of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Plate the creamy Alfredo pasta, top with sliced pesto chicken, and add a dollop of spicy feta cream. Finish with roasted Parmesan broccoli for that perfect crunch.
Serving and Storing Pesto Chicken Alfredo with Spicy Feta Cream & Parmesan Broccoli Crunch
This dish is best served immediately, with the chicken warm and the pasta creamy. It serves 4 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.
What to Serve With Pesto Chicken Alfredo?
Elevate your meal with these tasty pairings:
1. Garlic Bread
A classic option to soak up the creamy Alfredo sauce.
2. Caprese Salad
Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil balance the richness of the pasta.
3. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes
Their sweetness enhances the herbaceous pesto flavors.
4. Caesar Salad
A crisp, tangy option that complements the creamy pasta.
5. Lemon Sparkling Water
A refreshing, citrusy drink to cleanse your palate.
6. Sautéed Spinach
A healthy, light side that pairs well with the richness of the dish.
7. Focaccia Bread
Soft, herbed bread perfect for sopping up sauce.
Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?
If you loved this Pesto Chicken Alfredo, try these other comfort food favorites:
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna – A seafood twist with rich buttery sauce.
- Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta – Hearty, creamy, and family-approved.
- Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna – A cozy casserole packed with flavor.
- One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta – Quick, easy, and perfect for weeknights.
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Romantic, creamy, and packed with flavor.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can revisit it any time.
I’d love to hear how your Pesto Chicken Alfredo turned out! Did you add extra heat to the feta cream? Or maybe a sprinkle of pine nuts for a twist?
For more delicious recipes, follow my Pinterest page: NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest.
Pesto Chicken Alfredo with Spicy Feta Cream & Parmesan Broccoli Crunch
Equipment
- Skillet
- Baking sheet
- Pot for pasta
- Blender or Food Processor
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 2 tbsp basil pesto
- 0.5 cup feta cheese
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and pesto. Sear in olive oil until golden and fully cooked. Rest, then slice.
- Toss broccoli with olive oil, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F for 15 minutes until crispy.
- Boil fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- Blend feta cheese with cream and red pepper flakes until smooth.
- Toss drained pasta with Alfredo sauce in a skillet, using reserved water to loosen if needed.
- Plate pasta, top with sliced chicken, add a dollop of spicy feta cream, and serve with Parmesan broccoli.
Notes
2. Reheat leftovers with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce smooth.