Easy And Healthy: How To Make Chicken Alfredo With Veggies In Just 30 Minutes

Craving a comforting and delectable dish? Look no further than the classic chicken alfredo with veggies. This creamy and flavorful pasta is a crowd-pleaser that is surprisingly easy to prepare. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of creating a perfect chicken alfredo with veggies, providing step-by-step instructions and tips to ensure a successful culinary experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
• Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet.
• Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.

3. Make the Alfredo Sauce

• Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
• Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth.
• Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

4. Combine the Chicken and Vegetables

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.
• Stir to combine.
• Continue cooking until the chicken is heated through, about 2 minutes.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the chicken alfredo with veggies over your favorite pasta.
• Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips for Success

• For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk.
• If the sauce is too thick, add additional milk to thin it out.
• If the sauce is too thin, whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in cold water.
• Add other vegetables to your liking, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Variations

• Sun-Dried Tomato Alfredo: Add 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
• Spinach Alfredo: Stir in 1 cup of fresh spinach to the sauce.
• Broccoli Alfredo: Use 1 cup of broccoli florets instead of mixed vegetables.
• Shrimp Alfredo: Substitute the chicken with 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp.

The Perfect Pasta

• Choose a pasta that will hold the sauce well, such as penne, rotini, or fettuccine.
• Cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
• Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce.

Summary: A Versatile and Delightful Dish

Chicken alfredo with veggies is a versatile and delightful dish that can be enjoyed by all. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe will surely impress. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful vegetables, it’s a culinary masterpiece that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Information You Need to Know

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Simply thaw them before adding them to the skillet.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the chicken alfredo with veggies ahead of time. Prepare the sauce and cook the chicken, then store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and chicken and combine them.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.