Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli

If you started making Cajun Chicken Alfredo for everyone in your neighborhood, you’d probably put every restaurant in the area out of business.

This is one of those recipes that fills your soul with love and cheese. It’s warm, creamy, cheesy, and just so very delicious.

In fact, on my days off, when I cook for fun—without any regard for where the light in my living room is—I make this. I prepared it yesterday for my in-laws while they were in town for Christmas, and I’m making it for my own parents tomorrow.

The chicken is seasoned with Cajun seasoning. You can probably find something by Emeril Lagasse at the grocery store, but my version is easy to make and uses all basic spices (nothing outrageous). You probably have all the spices on hand already.

Depending on how much spice you use, the chicken may look “blackened.” It’s likely not burnt… just blackened. It tastes great.

While most restaurants have a version of Cajun Chicken Alfredo on their menu, they tend to garnish it with tomatoes. Tomatoes are pretty, but I know a lot of people who don’t like them.

Broccoli, however, is somehow a more universally beloved vegetable. So let’s add broccoli.

And of course, the cheese. Alfredo sauce is made primarily of butter, cream, and cheese. I add garlic and white wine for flavor and a full 8 ounces of shredded Wisconsin parmesan cheese for creaminess and flavor.

It’s all very spectacular. So very good. You’re going to love it! It’s great for weeknights, weekends, holidays, and any time you want to feel happy inside.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cajun Chicken Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a delicious blend of rich flavors, creamy textures, and a satisfying spice kick. The combination of Cajun-seasoned chicken, cheesy Alfredo sauce, and fresh broccoli makes it a perfect dish for any occasion.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 8 ounces shredded Wisconsin parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the chicken slices with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until it’s blackened and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions. Add broccoli florets to the pasta water during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same skillet used for the chicken, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Add white wine, allowing it to simmer and reduce slightly.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add shredded parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Add the cooked fettuccine and broccoli to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix everything together until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference.
• Cook the pasta al dente for the perfect texture.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a smoky flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the Cajun seasoning.
• Substitute broccoli with other veggies like asparagus or bell peppers if desired.
• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: 650
• Protein: 45g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 35g
• Fiber: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as penne or linguine.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the components ahead and assemble just before serving.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli as much as we do. It’s a dish that brings people together and fills you with warmth. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative twists you’ve added.