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Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the Chicken: Rub both sides of the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it thinly and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
- Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water to blanch them. Drain the pasta and broccoli together, then set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the Liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine the Dish:
- Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and sliced Cajun chicken to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning, adding more Cajun seasoning or salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve: Spoon the Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo onto plates and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added spice.
Tips for Success:
- Spicy Lovers: If you love heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more Cajun seasoning to amp up the spice level.
- Customize Your Veggies: While broccoli is the classic choice for this recipe, you can swap it out with spinach, peas, or even bell peppers for a variation.
- Make It Lighter: You can swap the heavy cream for a lighter version like half-and-half or whole milk for a less rich but still creamy sauce.
- Leftovers: This dish is just as delicious the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper:
- Satisfying and Filling: With the combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and hearty pasta, this dish is a complete meal that satisfies hunger and cravings.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a great way to get the whole family to enjoy both chicken and vegetables in one delicious, easy-to-make dish.
- A Bit of Spice: The Cajun seasoning adds a flavorful kick, giving this creamy pasta dish a unique and exciting twist.
Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of pasta or looking to try something a bit spicier than your usual Alfredo, Cajun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo hits the mark. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
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