Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli

A Flavor-Packed Comfort Dish

Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is a mouthwatering dish that brings together creamy, cheesy Alfredo sauce, spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken, and tender broccoli, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors and comforting, hearty meals. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: This recipe follows a straightforward process that even beginner home cooks can master.
  • Perfect Flavor Balance: The spice from the Cajun seasoning complements the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it a great option for family dinners.
  • Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences or whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 lb penne or other small pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast cutlets
  • 2-3 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 cups (8 oz) Parmesan cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large pot (for boiling pasta and broccoli)
  • Slotted spoon
  • Large skillet or pan
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • 9×13 inch baking dish
  • Wooden spoon or whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Use a slotted spoon to remove pasta from the pot, reserving the cooking water.
  3. Drizzle the cooked pasta with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

  1. Bring the reserved pasta water back to a boil.
  2. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about two minutes until tender but still bright green.
  3. Drain and immediately plunge the florets into ice water to stop the cooking process and maintain color.

Step 3: Cook the Cajun Chicken

  1. Coat the chicken cutlets evenly with Cajun seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Sauté the chicken, turning once, until fully cooked (about 6-7 minutes per side).
  4. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

  1. Wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel.
  2. Melt the butter over medium heat until bubbly.
  3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the white wine and simmer until reduced by half.
  5. Whisk in the heavy cream and allow it to simmer for about two minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and fully combined.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

  1. Mix the Alfredo sauce into the reserved pasta until well coated.
  2. Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  3. Slice the cooked Cajun chicken and arrange it on top of the pasta.
  4. Scatter the blanched broccoli over the dish.
  5. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20 minutes until heated through.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals, or reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Protein Swaps: Substitute chicken with shrimp, sausage, or tofu for a different take on the dish.
  • Vegetable Additions: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition.
  • Dairy-Free Version: Use a dairy-free heavy cream alternative and vegan Parmesan cheese.
  • Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Best Pairings

Side Dishes

  • Garlic Bread: A crispy side of garlic bread complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
  • Caesar Salad: A light and fresh Caesar salad helps balance the richness of the dish.

Drinks

  • White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the creamy sauce.
  • Iced Tea: A refreshing, unsweetened iced tea is a great non-alcoholic pairing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until heated through.

2. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought Alfredo sauce can be used as a substitute.

3. Is there a way to make it less spicy?

If you prefer a milder flavor, use less Cajun seasoning or opt for a blend with lower spice levels.

4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. If using a microwave, add a splash of milk or cream to prevent dryness.

Final Thoughts

Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli is a dish that delivers bold flavors and creamy comfort in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

If you loved this recipe, share it with friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-follow recipes. Happy cooking!

Leave a Comment