Say goodbye to bland pasta! supercharge your dinner with veggies-loaded chicken alfredo

Indulge in the delectable symphony of flavors with our comprehensive guide on how to make chicken alfredo with veggies. This classic dish tantalizes taste buds with its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and an array of colorful vegetables. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, follow our step-by-step instructions to create this restaurant-worthy meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Asiago cheese
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Veggies:

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup chopped onion

Instructions

#1. Prepare the Veggies

• Wash and cut the broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, and onion.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Sauté the veggies until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
• Remove from heat and set aside.

#2. Make the Sauce

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
• Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until smooth.
• Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the Parmesan and Asiago cheeses.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

#3. Combine the Sauce, Chicken, and Veggies

• Add the shredded chicken and sautéed veggies to the sauce.
• Stir until well combined.

#4. Serve

• Serve the chicken alfredo with veggies over pasta or rice.
• Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Variations

• Add other Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
• Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or fontina.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
• Try Different Pasta: Use any type of pasta you like, such as fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Veggies: Sauté them just until tender-crisp to preserve their texture and nutrients.
• Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.
• Serve Immediately: Chicken alfredo is best enjoyed fresh and hot.

The Secret to a Perfect Alfredo Sauce

The key to a velvety smooth alfredo sauce lies in the roux. A roux is a mixture of equal parts butter and flour that is cooked together to create a thickener. By cooking the roux for a minute before adding the cream, you ensure that the flour is fully incorporated and prevents lumps from forming.

The Health Benefits of Veggies

Incorporating vegetables into your chicken alfredo not only enhances the flavor but also provides a boost of essential nutrients. Broccoli, carrots, mushrooms, and onions are all rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These nutrients support overall health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and boost immunity.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just thaw them before sautéing.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and vegetables ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving.

Q: What do I do if my sauce is too thick?
A: Add a splash of milk or cream to thin it out.