Oh, sweet friends, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the table for a meal that feels both comforting and a little bit special. And today, I’m absolutely delighted to share a recipe that brings that warmth right into your kitchen: a truly divine creamy chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts. It’s a symphony of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, a luscious, velvety sauce, and those wonderfully roasted garlic brussels sprouts that add such a delightful pop of flavor and texture. It truly transforms a classic into something utterly memorable!
I still remember my grandmother, bless her heart, always saying that the simplest ingredients, handled with love, could create the most magical dishes. While her specialty was often sweet treats, her spirit of transforming humble elements into something extraordinary lives on in recipes like this. It reminds me of those childhood afternoons, peeking over the counter as she worked her magic, learning that patience and a pinch of passion are the best secret ingredients.
This chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to create joy. It’s wonderfully family-friendly, perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something delicious, or even for a cozy weekend dinner. My top tip for dishes like this? Always taste as you go along – your palate is your best guide to balancing those beautiful flavors!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Crafting this delightful chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts requires just a handful of wholesome ingredients that truly sing together. From the succulent chicken breasts seasoned to perfection to the earthy roasted garlic brussels sprouts and the rich, creamy sauce, each component plays a vital role. I always recommend using fresh garlic and good quality Parmesan cheese, as they make all the difference in that dreamy Alfredo! You’ll find the complete list of ingredients and precise measurements in the recipe card below.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Brussel Sprouts
Creating this gorgeous creamy chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts is a surprisingly straightforward dance in the kitchen. We start by giving those lovely brussels sprouts their moment to shine in the oven, getting them perfectly tender-crisp. While they’re roasting, we’ll cook our chicken until golden, then whip up that velvety Alfredo sauce. Finally, it’s all about bringing it together with the pasta for a dish that’s truly comforting.
Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Roasted Garlic Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or air fryer to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, toss halved brussels sprouts with 2 tbsp olive oil, minced garlic, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper.
- If baking: Spread brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and lightly charred.
- If air frying: Place brussels sprouts in a single layer in the air fryer basket (cook in batches if necessary). Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until tender and crispy. Set aside.
- While brussels sprouts cook, pat chicken cubes dry. In a medium bowl, toss chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water (8 cups water, 1 tsp salt) to a rolling boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In the same large skillet (no need to clean it after chicken), melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Slowly whisk in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Season with 1/4 tsp salt, 1/8 tsp black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Add the cooked pasta and cooked chicken to the Alfredo sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Divide the chicken alfredo among serving plates. Top each serving with the roasted garlic brussels sprouts. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using, and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
Pro Tips for Making This Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Brussel Sprouts
Over the years, I’ve learned a few little tricks to make every dish shine, and this creamy chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts is no exception! These are the whispers from my kitchen to yours, ensuring your meal is absolutely perfect.
When you’re roasting your brussels sprouts, don’t overcrowd the pan. Giving them space allows them to truly roast and caramelize, rather than steam, giving you those irresistible crispy edges. A good toss halfway through helps them brown evenly!
My Secret Trick: For an unbelievably silky and perfectly emulsified Alfredo sauce, always add your grated Parmesan cheese off the heat, stirring it in gradually. This prevents the cheese from clumping and ensures that beautiful, smooth texture we all adore. It’s a trick my Nonna swore by for her pasta dishes!
For the chicken, make sure your pan is nice and hot before adding the breasts. A good sear on both sides locks in the juices, keeping the chicken wonderfully tender and flavorful, which complements the rich chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts beautifully.
And when it comes to the pasta, always cook it al dente – just a little bite to it. It will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the warm Alfredo sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy. Plus, reserving some of that starchy pasta water is key for thinning the sauce if needed and helping it cling perfectly to every strand.
Fun Variations for Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Brussel Sprouts
One of the joys of cooking is making a recipe truly your own! This creamy chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts is wonderfully versatile, and I love encouraging you to play with flavors. Here are a few ideas that my friends and family adore:
Spice It Up
For those who love a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes added to the Alfredo sauce with the garlic can be absolutely divine. My friend Elena always asks for this version – she says it brightens every bite!
Veggie Delight
Feel free to add other roasted vegetables! Broccoli florets, asparagus spears, or even some bell peppers would be lovely additions alongside the brussels sprouts. Imagine a medley of colors and flavors in your chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts!
Herbaceous Twist
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil over the finished dish adds a burst of freshness and aroma. I often find a handful of chopped fresh chives also elevates the flavor profile beautifully, offering a subtle oniony note.
What to Serve With Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Brussel Sprouts
A comforting dish like creamy chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts often shines best with simple, elegant accompaniments. Think of them as supporting players, enhancing the main star without overshadowing it.
I always love serving this with a crisp, green side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The brightness of fresh greens cuts through the richness of the Alfredo sauce beautifully. My mom always insisted on a simple garden salad, and it’s a tradition I’ve carried on.
Another wonderful pairing is a basket of warm, crusty garlic bread or a perfectly toasted baguette. It’s absolutely essential for soaking up every last drop of that creamy sauce – truly a little piece of heaven!
For a delightful beverage, a chilled glass of dry white wine, like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors of the chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts wonderfully. If you prefer non-alcoholic, sparkling cider or a lemon-infused water is also lovely.
How to Store Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Brussel Sprouts
After enjoying your delicious creamy chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts, you might find yourself with some lovely leftovers! Proper storage ensures that every bite remains as delicious as the first.
To store, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature (this is my personal rule to avoid condensation!). Then, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The sauce might thicken slightly in the fridge, which is perfectly normal.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend gently reheating your chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or a bit of reserved pasta water (if you have it!) to help loosen the sauce and bring back that creamy texture. Stir occasionally until warmed through, being careful not to boil it. A quick dusting of fresh Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper after reheating brings it back to life wonderfully!
Nutritional Benefits
While we cherish the indulgence of this creamy chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts, it also offers some lovely nutritional benefits! The chicken provides an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle health, and the brussels sprouts are packed with fiber and vitamins, including Vitamin K and C. It’s a satisfying dish that, in my kitchen, balances that delightful indulgence with wholesome ingredients, making it a treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
FAQs
Faq 1
Can I use a different pasta for chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or linguine are classic choices, you can certainly use other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even farfalle. Just ensure you cook it to al dente for the best texture in your creamy chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts.
Faq 2
How can I make the brussels sprouts extra crispy for this chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts?
For super crispy brussels sprouts, ensure they are cut consistently, tossed well with oil, and roasted in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. A higher oven temperature (around 400-425°F) can also help achieve that perfect crispness for your chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts.
Faq 3
Is it possible to make this chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts dairy-free?
Making this creamy chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts dairy-free can be a bit tricky for the sauce, but it’s possible with substitutes like plant-based milks and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives. The overall flavor profile might be different, but it can still be a delicious meal.
Faq 4
Can I prepare components of this chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can roast the brussels sprouts and cook the chicken a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will significantly cut down on your prep time when you’re ready to assemble your chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts.
Conclusion
There’s something truly magical about a homemade meal that brings everyone together, and this creamy chicken alfredo with brussel sprouts is one of those dishes that instantly feels like a warm hug. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with a little love and mindful preparation, can create a memorable dining experience. So, I encourage you, my dear friends, to step into your kitchen, embrace the joy of cooking, and create your own sweet memories with this delightful recipe. Happy cooking!
