🌶️🌿🐔🥦🧀🍄 Spicy Tuscan Chicken Alfredo with Roasted Parmesan Broccoli & Creamy Mushroom Pesto
This vibrant and incredibly satisfying bowl delivers a kick of flavor with garlic and chili-marinated chicken bites, perfectly roasted broccoli topped with a crispy Parmesan crust. The entire dish is brought together by a rich, spicy mushroom basil Alfredo sauce, generously melted with mozzarella cheese. A truly gourmet and comforting experience with a delightful Tuscan twist!
Yields: 2-3 servings
Prep time: 20 minutes (plus chicken marinating time)
Cook time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients:
🐔🌶️ Garlic & Chili-Marinated Chicken Bites:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to desired spice level)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste
🥦🧀 Roasted Broccoli Topped with Crispy Parmesan:
1 large head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
2 tbsp olive oil
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste
🍄🌿🧀 Creamy Sauce: Spicy Mushroom Basil Alfredo Sauce with Melted Mozzarella:
2 tbsp butter 🧈
8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to desired spice level, for sauce)
¼ cup fresh basil leaves 🌿
1 ½ cups heavy cream
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀 (for sauce)
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀 (for topping)
Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare Roasted Parmesan Broccoli:
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
In a large bowl, toss broccoli florets with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
Remove from oven, sprinkle with ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and return to oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until tender-crisp and nicely browned with crispy edges.
Marinate & Cook Garlic & Chili-Marinated Chicken Bites:
While broccoli roasts, in a bowl, toss chicken bites with 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Prepare Spicy Mushroom Basil Alfredo Sauce with Melted Mozzarella:
In the same skillet (no need to clean), melt butter over medium heat.
Add sliced mushrooms and 2 cloves minced garlic. Cook until mushrooms are softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in ½ tsp red pepper flakes (if using for sauce) and fresh basil leaves. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in 1 ½ cups heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. (If you prefer a smoother "pesto" in your Alfredo, you can transfer the mushroom/garlic/basil mixture to a food processor with a splash of cream, blend, then return to the skillet to finish the Alfredo).
Assemble & Serve:
Reduce the heat of the Alfredo sauce to low. Return the cooked garlic & chili-marinated chicken bites to the sauce and stir to coat.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the chicken and sauce in the skillet. Cover the skillet and let it melt for a few minutes until gooey and delicious. (Alternatively, if your skillet is oven-safe, you can briefly place under a broiler for 1-2 minutes for a golden, bubbly top, watching carefully!).
Divide the roasted Parmesan broccoli among bowls.
Spoon the cheesy, saucy Spicy Tuscan Chicken Alfredo mixture generously over the broccoli. Serve immediately and enjoy this incredibly flavorful and comforting meal!
Tips for Success:
Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes in both the chicken marinade and the sauce to your desired heat.
Chicken Doneness: Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
Broccoli Crispiness: Ensure broccoli is in a single layer on the baking sheet and not overcrowded for maximum crispiness.
Sauce Consistency: If the Alfredo sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it with a splash of warm chicken broth or milk.
Enjoy this exciting and delicious Tuscan-inspired dish!