How to Make Chicken Tenderloin Alfredo with Broccoli
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, many of us crave a warm, comforting meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. Enter Chicken Tenderloin Alfredo with Broccoli, a dish that combines rich, creamy Alfredo sauce with succulent chicken tenderloins and crisp broccoli florets. This recipe promises a delightful balance of flavors, providing a quick and easy solution for your dinner needs. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this meal is sure to satisfy your taste buds without exhausting your time or budget.
Ingredients for Chicken Tenderloin Alfredo
Here's what you'll need to create this delightful meal:
- 400 grams chicken tenderloins
- 250 grams fettuccine pasta or your pasta of choice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: 1/2 cup of white wine for a richer flavor
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken tenderloins with salt and pepper.
- Boil Water for Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
- Chop and Blanch Broccoli: Cut broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Blanch in boiling water for about 2 minutes, then transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking.
Cooking
- Cook Pasta: Add pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer until slightly thickened. Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts. Season with salt, pepper, and optional white wine.
- Combine Ingredients: Drain pasta. Return to pot with sauce. Add chicken and broccoli, tossing everything to coat.
Variations and Tips
If you want to personalize your dish, here are a few ideas:
- Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Proteins: Swap chicken tenderloins with shrimp or pancetta for a different taste.
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a twist.
💡 Note: Ensure not to overcook the broccoli to maintain its vibrant color and crunch.
By following these steps, you can create a Chicken Tenderloin Alfredo with Broccoli that's perfect for any meal occasion. This dish offers a wonderful blend of textures and flavors, ensuring that every bite is as satisfying as the first. Whether it's a cozy dinner or a family meal, this recipe promises to be both delicious and convenient, leaving you with enough time to relax or spend with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
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Yes, you can use any pasta type you prefer or have on hand. Fettuccine works well because it catches the sauce nicely, but linguine, penne, or even spaghetti will do just fine.
How can I make this dish lighter or lower in calories?
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To make this dish lighter, you can use light cream or a combination of milk and flour to thicken instead of heavy cream. Reducing the amount of butter and cheese or using a cheese with lower fat content like part-skim mozzarella can also help.
Can I prepare parts of this meal in advance?
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Absolutely! You can blanch the broccoli, cook the chicken, and even make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator, and combine everything when ready to serve. This makes the meal preparation very time-efficient.
