Cajun Chicken And Broccoli Alfredo
Ingredients:
1 cup of broccoli
1 cup of Penne pasta
1 tablespoon of butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 1/2 lb chicken breast
4 minced garlic cloves
1 cup 35% cream
1 cup of milk
1 cup and 1/4 grated mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
Salt and freshly ground pepper
Instructions:
Season the breast and chicken with salt and pepper.
Cooking broccoli in a double chauffeur .
Put apart . Cook the pasta al dente and drain.
In a big pot, heat oil & butter on medium high heat.
Sauté the chicken breast for about 5 minutes on each side.
Take off heat and let cool.
Cuting chicken to little slices .
Add garlic to the same pot and cook with the chicken juice for about 31 seconds.
Remove from the heat and put in the same bowl as the broccoli.
Join cream & adduce to a scald .
Add cheese and combine until tender.
Reduce heat to low and gradually add milk, stirring constantly, until a creamy texture is achieved.
Add the pasta to the sauce, then the broccoli.
Season with salt and pepper and finally add the chicken. Serve hot!
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 650 kcal | Protein: 40g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Dietary Fiber: 2g | Sugars: 4g | Total Fat: 42g | Saturated Fat: 22g | Cholesterol: 185mg | Sodium: 600mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different pasta varieties like fettuccine, linguine, or rotini based on your preference.
Is it necessary to cook the broccoli separately?
Cooking the broccoli in a double steamer helps retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
However, you can also blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While the recipe suggests mozzarella or Monterey Jack, you can experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan, cheddar, or a blend for varied flavors.
How do I ensure the chicken breasts are cooked perfectly?
Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the components in advance and assemble them just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, but the sauce may be less rich.
Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
How can I prevent the Alfredo sauce from becoming too thick?
Gradually adding milk and stirring constantly while incorporating it into the sauce can help achieve the desired creamy texture.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken and add it during the final steps to warm it through.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta, and ensure that other ingredients, like the seasoning and cheese, are gluten-free as well to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.