“My father absolutely loved this dish! He went back for thirds and keeps asking when I’ll make it again.”
This delicious pasta creation features tender Cajun-seasoned chicken and bright green broccoli tossed in a luscious, creamy Parmesan Alfredo sauce. It’s a flavorful and hearty dish with just the right amount of spice.
Ingredients:
Pasta and Broccoli:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Penne pasta (or any small pasta) | 1 lb |
| Broccoli florets | 2 cups |
| Salt | For boiling water |
Cajun Chicken:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cutlets) | 1 lb |
| Cajun seasoning | 2–3 tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Creamy Alfredo Sauce:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Dry white wine | ½ cup |
| Heavy cream | 2 cups |
| Parmesan cheese (shredded) | 2 cups (8 oz) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
Optional Garnish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Parmesan cheese (shredded) | As needed |
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 200°F (95°C) to keep the chicken warm after cooking.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (about 9 minutes). Drain, reserving some pasta water, and set aside.
- Blanch Broccoli: Bring the reserved pasta water back to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook until just tender and bright green (about 2 minutes). Transfer immediately to an ice water bath to stop cooking. Drain and set aside.
- Season Chicken: Coat the chicken cutlets evenly with Cajun seasoning on both sides.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook about 5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 155°F. Remove chicken, cover with foil, and place in the warm oven.
- Make Garlic Butter: Wipe out the skillet. Melt butter over medium-high heat until foaming. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds), taking care not to burn it.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine and simmer until reduced by half (about 2 minutes).
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and simmer until slightly thickened (about 2 minutes). Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce until well coated.
- Assemble Dish: Arrange broccoli over the pasta, then top with sliced Cajun chicken. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and fresh flavors!
