Cajun Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

Cajun chicken and broccoli Alfredo delivers ultimate weeknight comfort thanks to its rich creamy sauce spiked with bold Cajun spices and plenty of juicy chicken bites. Each forkful brings tender broccoli and a tangle of cheesy pasta together for a dinner that always wins rave reviews around the table.

The first time I tossed Cajun spice into Alfredo my family’s eyes went wide and the pot was wiped clean. Now this is the meal for when we crave something both familiar and a little adventurous.

Ingredients

• Boneless chicken breast: Choose plump firm chicken and slice into even pieces for even cooking
• Pasta: Penne or a similar short pasta holds the sauce beautifully and makes every bite satisfying
• Broccoli florets: Use fresh for a little bite or lightly steam to keep the flecks bright green
• Cajun seasoning: This is where all the bold flavor comes in so check your blend for a good balance of paprika garlic and cayenne
• Heavy cream and milk: Go with full fat cream for the richest sauce and whole milk for a silkier finish
• Grated mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a smoother sauce
• Butter and olive oil: This combo brings both richness and a hint of savory flavor when sautéing chicken
• Fresh garlic: Gives the sauce real depth make sure to use freshly minced cloves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Good seasoning makes everything pop so season at every stage

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Pat chicken dry and season generously with salt pepper and Cajun seasoning letting it rest for a couple of minutes so the spices start to lock onto the meat

Boil the Pasta and Prepare the Broccoli:

Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook pasta just until al dente this gives a tiny bit of bite once baked Later strain and set aside Steam or lightly boil broccoli just until bright and crisp tender drain and set aside

Sauté the Chicken:

Heat butter and olive oil in a wide pan over medium high Add seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook without moving it too much for about five minutes per side until golden and cooked through Remove the chicken to a plate to avoid overcooking

Start the Alfredo Sauce:

In the same skillet reduce heat to medium Add minced garlic and stir constantly for about one minute until you can smell its aroma but avoid letting it brown

Blend in Cream and Milk:

Pour in heavy cream scraping up any browned bits for flavor then add milk slowly stirring to keep the sauce base silky and prevent burning

Add the Cheese:

Once the cream mixture is near simmering scatter in grated cheese and stir slowly letting it melt completely for a thick velvety sauce

Mix Everything Together:

Return cooked pasta chicken and broccoli to the pan Gently toss them in the hot sauce making sure every piece is thoroughly coated Adjust seasoning if needed with more Cajun or salt

Serve Fresh and Hot:

Dish out immediately while the sauce is creamy Serve with a sprinkle of extra cheese black pepper or a handful of fresh chopped parsley

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I love watching my kids sneak the first bite straight from the pan while the cheese is still stringy This sauce is my unbeatable trick for getting everyone to devour broccoli without a single complaint

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers promptly in an airtight container and they will stay luscious for up to three days If reheating add a spoonful of milk or cream and stir gently over low heat to bring back the creamy texture without curdling Avoid freezing as creamy sauces may separate and lose their silky appeal

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the chicken for turkey breast or boneless thighs if you want a more robust flavor For a vegetarian twist double up on broccoli and add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers If you need a lighter sauce you can use half and half in place of heavy cream and part skim mozzarella in place of full fat cheese

Serving Suggestions

Pair this spicy cheesy pasta with a crisp green salad and a slice of warm garlic bread For special occasions finish with a sprinkle of shredded parmesan and fresh parsley You can even toss roasted cherry tomatoes on top for juicy bursts of sweetness

Cultural Context

Cajun seasoning brings a taste of Louisiana’s vibrant food history where simple homegrown food gets a lively twist The fusion with Alfredo sauce makes a comforting Italian classic feel new and bold with every bite Cajun chicken Alfredo is now a staple in many Southern inspired kitchens

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this dish?

Yes, you can add sliced or shredded pre-cooked chicken when combining the pasta and broccoli. Heat through gently in the sauce.

→ What's the best way to ensure the broccoli stays bright green?

Steam or briefly blanch the broccoli until just tender, then quickly rinse under cold water to set the color before adding it to the dish.

→ How can I make this meal spicier?

Increase Cajun seasoning to your taste, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for additional heat during sautéing.

→ What other cheeses work well in the sauce?

Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or a blend of mozzarella and sharp cheddar can also give the sauce great flavor and creaminess.

→ Is it possible to substitute the pasta shape?

Absolutely; penne works well, but rotini, fusilli, or fettuccine are all great options for holding onto the creamy sauce.