Najun Chicken And Broccoli Alfredo Recipe

Flavorful Najun Chicken And Broccoli Alfredo Recipe Everyone Loves

Crafting a mouthwatering najun chicken and broccoli alfredo promises a delightful culinary adventure that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Creamy textures blend seamlessly with zesty spices in this comforting dish.

Weeknight dinners just got a whole lot more exciting with this simple yet impressive recipe.

Pasta lovers will rejoice at the perfect balance of tender chicken and crisp broccoli.

Each forkful delivers a symphony of flavors that comfort and surprise simultaneously.

Home cooks can easily recreate this restaurant-quality meal with minimal ingredients and maximum satisfaction.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this irresistible alfredo masterpiece.

Steps To Cook Najun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

Step 1: Slice Chicken into Delicate Strips

Cut chicken breasts into even, slender strips that will cook uniformly and remain tender.

Step 2: Whip Up Creamy Marinade

Blend eggs with heavy cream in a mixing bowl, creating a luscious bath for the chicken.

Step 3: Bathe Chicken in Flavor

Submerge chicken strips in the cream mixture, letting them soak up delicious flavors for 15-20 minutes at room temperature.

Step 4: Prepare Sizzling Skillet

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, creating the perfect surface for cooking.

Step 5: Season Chicken with Zesty Spices

Remove chicken from marinade and sprinkle with:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes

Step 6: Sear Chicken to Golden Perfection

Cook chicken strips until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a waiting plate.

Step 7: Sauté Fragrant Garlic

Toss minced garlic into the same skillet, cooking until it becomes aromatic and lightly golden, around 1 minute.

Step 8: Boil Pasta to Al Dente

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook fettuccine according to package guidelines.

Step 9: Add Broccoli to Pasta Water

Introduce broccoli florets to the pasta water during the final 3 minutes of cooking, ensuring a crisp-tender texture.

Step 10: Drain Pasta and Broccoli

Carefully drain the pasta and broccoli, keeping a small amount of cooking water to the side.

Step 11: Warm Alfredo Sauce

Return skillet to medium heat and gently warm the alfredo sauce.

Step 12: Combine All Ingredients

Mix cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli into the sauce, stirring to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 13: Sprinkle Cheesy Goodness

Shower the dish with grated parmesan cheese, creating a creamy and luxurious finish.

Step 14: Add Fresh Herb Garnish

Scatter freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and herbal freshness.

Step 15: Serve and Enjoy

Plate immediately while piping hot, letting the melted cheese and sauce create a mouthwatering experience.

Smart Tips For Najun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

  • Master Chicken Cutting: Slice breasts into uniform strips for consistent cooking and tender meat texture.
  • Marinate Like a Pro: Whisk eggs and heavy cream to create a luxurious, flavor-absorbing bath for chicken pieces.
  • Temperature Timing: Let chicken marinate at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to enhance flavor penetration and ensure even cooking.
  • Season with Confidence: Generously season chicken with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes before searing to develop a rich, robust taste profile.
  • Quick Broccoli Hack: Add broccoli florets to pasta water during final 3 minutes of cooking to save time and maintain perfect crisp-tender texture.

Ways To Change Up Najun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

  • Spicy Jalapeño Chicken Fettuccine: Replace red pepper flakes with diced fresh jalapeños for a more intense, fresh heat.
  • Mediterranean Chicken Pasta: Swap alfredo sauce with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like oregano and basil for a lighter, zesty version.
  • Vegetarian Cauliflower Fettuccine: Substitute chicken with roasted cauliflower florets, using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor profile.
  • Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Option: Replace fettuccine with spiralized zucchini noodles, maintaining the creamy sauce and protein elements.

Pairing Ideas For Najun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

  • Crisp Chardonnay Contrast: Select an unoaked chardonnay with bright acidity to cut through the rich, creamy sauce and complement the chicken's peppery notes.
  • Zesty Sauvignon Blanc Match: Choose a New Zealand sauvignon blanc with herbal undertones that will refresh the palate and enhance the parsley's green flavor profile.
  • Sparkling Prosecco Delight: Opt for a light, bubbly prosecco that cleanses the mouth between bites and provides a playful counterpoint to the heavy, creamy pasta dish.

How To Keep Najun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Fresh

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping the dish fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Transfer chicken and pasta to a freezer-safe container, ensuring minimal air exposure. Freeze for up to 2 months, maintaining optimal taste and texture.
  • Place portion on a microwave-safe plate, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent dryness. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to distribute warmth evenly.
  • Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent sauce separation. Stir continuously for 3-4 minutes until heated thoroughly.

FAQs About Najun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

  • Is the cream marinade necessary?

Yes, it tenderizes chicken and adds rich flavor, helping the meat stay juicy and absorb seasonings during cooking.

  • Can I use different pasta instead of fettuccine?

Absolutely! Penne, linguine, or rotini work great and provide similar texture and sauce-holding capabilities.

  • Why sear chicken separately before mixing?

Searing creates a golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture and develops deeper, caramelized flavors before combining with sauce and pasta.

  • What makes the red pepper flakes important?

Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat and complexity to the dish, providing a gentle spicy undertone that enhances the overall taste without overwhelming other ingredients.

Why Najun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Is So Flavorful

  • Customize Your Flavor: Personalize the dish by adjusting spice levels with red pepper flakes or adding your favorite herbs.
  • Simplify Cooking Process: One-pan technique reduces cleanup and streamlines meal preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Nutritious and Satisfying: Protein-packed chicken and nutrient-rich broccoli create a balanced meal that keeps everyone full and happy.
  • Family-Friendly Feast: Creamy sauce and familiar ingredients appeal to both kids and adults, making it a crowd-pleasing dinner option.

What You’ll Need For Najun Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

For the Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: Tender meat sliced into uniform strips for even cooking and optimal texture.
  • Eggs: Create a rich, creamy marinade base for the chicken.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious richness to the marinade and enhances chicken flavor.
For the Seasonings:
  • Salt, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Provide balanced and dynamic seasoning for the chicken.
  • Garlic: Delivers aromatic depth and savory undertones to the dish.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Offers a sharp, salty finish and creamy texture.
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds bright color and fresh herbal notes.
For the Base and Accompaniments:
  • Olive Oil: Ensures smooth sautéing and prevents sticking.
  • Fettuccine Pasta: Serves as the hearty foundation of the meal.
  • Broccoli Florets: Introduces nutritious green vegetables with a crisp-tender texture.
  • Alfredo Sauce: Provides a creamy, rich coating for the entire dish.
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Najun Chicken And Broccoli Alfredo Recipe

Najun Chicken And Broccoli Alfredo Recipe


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4.7 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Creamy najun chicken and broccoli alfredo delivers a spicy southern twist on classic Italian comfort food. Peppered with bold Cajun spices and rich parmesan, this one-pan meal brings sizzling flavor you’ll crave on chilly nights.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Protein:

  • 2 lbs (900 g) chicken breast, boneless and skinless
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 2 large eggs

Pasta and Vegetables:

  • 1 lb (450 g) fettuccine pasta
  • 3 cups (450 g) fresh broccoli florets
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce and Seasonings:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) alfredo sauce
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Slice chicken breasts into uniform strips, ensuring even cooking and tender texture.
  2. Whisk eggs with heavy cream, creating a rich marinade for the chicken pieces.
  3. Immerse chicken strips in the cream mixture, allowing them to absorb flavors for 15-20 minutes at room temperature.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, preparing for chicken sautéing.
  5. Remove chicken from marinade, season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  6. Sear chicken strips until golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 6-8 minutes, then transfer to a plate.
  7. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1 minute.
  8. Simultaneously, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook fettuccine according to package instructions.
  9. Add broccoli florets to the pasta water during the last 3 minutes of cooking, ensuring crisp-tender texture.
  10. Drain pasta and broccoli, reserving a small amount of cooking water.
  11. Return skillet to medium heat, pour in alfredo sauce, and gently warm.
  12. Incorporate cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli into the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
  13. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the dish, creating a creamy, luxurious finish.
  14. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous flavor.
  15. Serve immediately while hot, allowing the melted cheese and sauce to tantalize the palate.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken in cream mixture to enhance tenderness and infuse deep, rich flavors throughout the meat.
  • Sear chicken at high heat to lock in juices and create a beautiful golden-brown exterior that adds complexity to the dish.
  • Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency, helping the alfredo sauce cling perfectly to noodles and ingredients.
  • Consider swapping heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for lighter, diet-friendly alternatives that maintain creamy texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 40 g
  • Cholesterol: 150 mg
Olivia Brooks

Olivia Brooks

Contributing Writer

Expertise

  • Healthy recipe development
  • Plant-based cooking
  • Nutritional analysis
  • Food writing and content creation

Education

Culinary Institute of America
Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate Program
Focus: Culinary fundamentals, nutrition, and healthy cooking technique


Olivia believes good food should feed both the body and the soul. She earned her Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America, where she focused on nutrition and practical cooking techniques that make healthy eating easy.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Olivia shares single-serving recipes that are fresh, plant-forward, and full of heart. She loves helping people eat better, without stress, strict rules, or sacrificing flavor.
Beyond the kitchen, Olivia spends her time tending her backyard garden, practicing yoga, and discovering hidden gems in Portland’s food scene.

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