Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli

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Golden, juicy Cajun-spiced chicken meets a bed of creamy, dreamy Alfredo fettuccine in this irresistible Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli. It’s the kind of meal that looks like it came straight out of a restaurant kitchen, but takes surprisingly little effort to make at home. The spice from the Cajun seasoning perfectly balances the richness of the Alfredo sauce, creating a flavor-packed dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

To round it out, fresh broccoli adds a welcome burst of color, texture, and nutrition. Whether you’re craving a satisfying weeknight dinner or planning a cozy weekend meal, this dish delivers on all fronts—creamy, savory, a little spicy, and totally satisfying. Ready to impress without the stress? Let’s get into it.


Ingredients for Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 8 oz fettuccine pasta
  • 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets directly into the pot to blanch them. Drain both the pasta and broccoli, set aside, and lightly toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.


Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and coat them evenly with Cajun seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet, let rest for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips.


Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 3–4 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.


Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the drained fettuccine and broccoli into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently until everything is coated evenly in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.


Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Plate the creamy Alfredo pasta and top with sliced Cajun chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley and a bit of cracked black pepper for extra flair. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.


Storage Instructions

To store leftover Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

For reheating, add a splash of milk or cream before microwaving or warming on the stovetop over low heat. This helps restore the creaminess of the sauce.

Avoid freezing, as cream-based sauces tend to separate and lose their smooth texture once thawed.


Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings)

  • Calories: 620
  • Protein: 42g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg
  • Sodium: 690mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 2g

Note: Nutrition may vary based on exact ingredients used.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Just slice and warm it with a bit of Cajun seasoning in a skillet to boost the flavor before adding it to the pasta.

2. Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Absolutely. Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and go for grilled or air-fried chicken. You can also use less cheese.

3. What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Grated Pecorino Romano or Asiago work great. Even a good-quality shredded mozzarella will do in a pinch.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free fettuccine or your favorite pasta alternative. Be sure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free too.

5. Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild to medium kick depending on your Cajun seasoning. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne. For less, use a low-spice blend.

6. Can I add other veggies?

Totally! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach are great additions and work well with the creamy sauce.

7. What kind of chicken works best?

Boneless skinless breasts are classic, but thighs are juicier and more flavorful if you prefer a richer bite.

8. Can I prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store it in a sealed container in the fridge and reheat gently when ready to use.


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Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli


  • Author: Julia Koch
  • Total Time: 30 minute
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Spice up your dinner routine with this Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli – a bold, creamy, and utterly comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknights. This easy recipe brings together tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, fresh broccoli, and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce that’s both rich and satisfying.


Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (more to taste)

1 tablespoon olive oil

8 oz fettuccine pasta

2 cups broccoli florets

2 tablespoons butter

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 1/2 cups heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped parsley for garnish


Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Add broccoli florets to the pasta water during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season both sides of chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, and cook until sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and extra Cajun spice if desired.
  6. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
  7. Top with sliced chicken and garnish with red pepper flakes or parsley.
  8. Serve hot and enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner

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