Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

Are you in the mood for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than our Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo recipe! This dish puts a spicy spin on the classic Alfredo pasta, with tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy Cajun-infused sauce. It’s the perfect dish to impress your family and friends or to enjoy as a comforting meal on a chilly evening. So, let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this mouthwatering Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo!

Introduction

Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo is a delightful twist on the traditional Alfredo pasta dish. With its bold Cajun flavors and creamy sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make this flavorful dish from scratch, so you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavors right in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain the pasta and broccoli and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breast cutlets on both sides with Cajun seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
Pour in the dry white wine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Gradually add the shredded parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips and add it back to the skillet with the sauce.
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
Serve the Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo hot, garnished with additional shredded parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations

Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have store-bought Cajun seasoning, you can make your own by combining equal parts paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Vegetable Variation: Feel free to customize the vegetables in this dish based on your preferences. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach would all be delicious additions.
Protein Variation: If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can substitute shrimp, sausage, or tofu for the chicken in this recipe.

Keto and Low-Carb Version

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following modifications to create a keto-friendly version of Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo:

Pasta Substitute: Use low-carb pasta alternatives such as zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles in place of traditional pasta.
Cream Substitute: Substitute heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream to reduce the carb content of the sauce.
Vegetable Options: Choose low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, or asparagus to replace the pasta and further reduce the carb count.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, cook the pasta and broccoli, and combine everything together.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or linguine.

Q: Is this dish spicy? A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference for Cajun seasoning. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning used in the recipe.

Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this flavorful recipe is sure to impress. So why not give it a try and enjoy the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine in this delightful pasta dish?