Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli

Welcome to the delicious world of Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli! This recipe is a delightful fusion of creamy Alfredo sauce, spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken, and vibrant broccoli florets. It’s the perfect dish for a comforting dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is a standout for several reasons. First, it’s a one-pan wonder that’s both easy to prepare and cleanup. The spicy kick from the Cajun seasoning pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce, while the broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this dish is sure to be a hit!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Colander
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Thermometer

Ingredients

• Salt
• 1 pound penne or other small pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast cutlets
• 2-3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (see notes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cups (8 ounces) Wisconsin parmesan cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat your oven to 200°F. Bring 4 quarts of salted water to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving the cooking water, and set it aside.
3. Return the cooking water to a boil. Add the broccoli and boil until just tender and bright green, about 2 minutes. Immediately plunge the broccoli into a bowl of ice water. Drain and set aside.
4. Meanwhile, generously sprinkle both sides of the chicken with Cajun seasoning.
5. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Arrange the chicken in a single layer and sauté, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 155°F, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet, cover with foil, and transfer to the oven to keep warm.
6. Wipe the skillet with a paper towel and return to the stove. Over medium-high heat, melt the butter and heat until foaming. Stir in the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
7. Whisk in the wine and bring to a simmer. Simmer until the sauce has reduced by half, about 2 minutes.
8. Whisk in the cream and simmer until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes. Fold in the parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
9. Add the reserved pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat. Arrange the broccoli over the pasta, top with the chicken, and garnish with additional parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the chicken is cooked to the right temperature for safety and tenderness.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should remain bright green and slightly crisp.

Additional Tips or Variations

• To create your own Cajun seasoning: Combine 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 tablespoon salt, 1/2 tablespoon black pepper, 1/2 tablespoon cayenne pepper, 1/2 tablespoon dried thyme, and 1/2 tablespoon onion powder.
• For a head start: Cook the pasta and blanch the broccoli in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. Refresh the pasta in hot water before serving.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While the exact nutritional content will vary depending on portion sizes and specific brands of ingredients, this dish is rich in protein from the chicken, provides a good source of calcium from the parmesan cheese, and includes a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins from the broccoli.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, feel free to use any small pasta you prefer, such as fusilli or rigatoni.
• Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for the wine? You can replace the wine with chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
• How can I make this dish spicier? Increase the amount of cayenne pepper in your Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

This Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is an enticing recipe that promises to satisfy your cravings for a hearty, flavorful meal. I hope you’ll give it a try and experience the wonderful blend of spices and creaminess. Don’t forget to share your culinary adventures in the comments below!