Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Recipe

Introduction

This Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a cheesy sauce with a hint of spice. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen.

A close-up view of a baked macaroni and cheese dish in a silver foil pan, showing one thick layer of cheesy pasta mixed with pieces of bright green broccoli and browned chicken chunks. The top layer is covered with melted golden-yellow cheese, browned and bubbly with flecks of dried herbs sprinkled evenly. The pasta is curly and coated with a creamy sauce, and the cheese has a slightly crispy texture on top. The dish is set on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 1½ lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper, to season
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 minced garlic cloves
  • 1 cup heavy cream (35%)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1¼ cup grated mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup broccoli florets, fresh or lightly steamed
  • 1 cup pasta (penne works well)
  • Cajun seasoning to taste (about 1–2 tsp or more, optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning if using. Let them sit for a couple of minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Step 2: Cook the pasta al dente according to package directions, then drain. Meanwhile, cook or steam the broccoli until tender but still bright green. Set both aside.
  3. Step 3: In a large pot or skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sauté for about 5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  4. Step 4: Reduce the heat to medium in the same pot. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, then gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to prevent overheating. Bring the mixture nearly to a simmer.
  5. Step 5: Stir in the grated mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese until it melts smoothly and blends well into the sauce.
  6. Step 6: Add the cooked pasta, chicken pieces, and broccoli into the sauce. Stir everything together to coat well and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning with more Cajun, salt, or pepper as desired.
  7. Step 7: Serve immediately while hot and creamy. Garnish with extra cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, or chopped parsley if you like.

Tips & Variations

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or extra broccoli florets.
  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra smoky heat.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for best melting and flavor.
  • If sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of milk to loosen it.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened. Avoid microwaving on high to keep the sauce creamy.

How to Serve

A baked pasta dish in a silver foil container with one main layer of creamy, golden-yellow cheese sauce mixed with pasta, green broccoli florets, and pieces of browned chicken, all topped with melted, slightly browned cheese that has a bubbly, glossy texture and small bits of green herbs sprinkled on top, resting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, this dish works well with various pasta shapes like fettuccine, penne, or rotini. Choose your favorite and cook it al dente as usual.

Is Cajun seasoning necessary?

No, Cajun seasoning is optional. It adds a spicy kick and depth of flavor, but you can omit it if you prefer a milder Alfredo sauce.

Print
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Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Recipe


  • Author: lina
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A creamy, flavorful Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo featuring tender chicken breast pieces sautéed with garlic and Cajun seasoning, tossed with al dente pasta, fresh broccoli, and a rich homemade mozzarella cheese sauce. This comforting dish balances spice and creaminess perfectly for a satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • lb chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper to season
  • Cajun seasoning to taste (about 1–2 tsp or more)

Cooking Fats

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Sauce and Dairy

  • 4 minced garlic cloves
  • 1 cup heavy cream (35% fat)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1¼ cup grated mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese

Vegetables and Pasta

  • 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or lightly steamed)
  • 1 cup pasta (penne works well)

Instructions

  1. Season Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, freshly ground pepper, and Cajun seasoning if using. Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes to absorb the flavors thoroughly.
  2. Cook Pasta & Broccoli: Cook the pasta until al dente according to the package directions, then drain. While the pasta cooks, steam or cook the broccoli florets until tender but still vibrant green. Set both aside.
  3. Sauté Chicken: In a large pot or skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and sauté for approximately 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Build the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium in the same pot. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, being careful not to burn. Pour in heavy cream and gradually add milk while stirring constantly to prevent overheating. Bring the mixture nearly to a simmer.
  5. Add Cheese: Once the sauce is warm, stir in the grated mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese until it melts fully, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
  6. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken pieces, and broccoli into the sauce. Stir gently to combine everything evenly, ensuring all ingredients are well coated with the creamy sauce. Heat through and adjust seasoning with additional Cajun seasoning, salt, or pepper as desired.
  7. Serve Hot: Serve the Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo immediately while hot and creamy. Garnish with extra grated cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, or chopped parsley if desired for an added touch.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for best melting and flavor.
  • The broccoli can be lightly steamed or sautéed for added texture.
  • To reduce fat content, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half though it will affect creaminess.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Cajun Chicken Alfredo, Broccoli Alfredo, Creamy Pasta, Cajun Seasoning Chicken, Chicken Alfredo Recipe

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