Spinach-Artichoke Greek Chicken Alfredo

If you’re in the mood for a meal that is as comforting as it is delicious, look no further than our Spinach-Artichoke Greek Chicken Alfredo with Crispy Parmesan Broccoli and Mushroom Basil Cream. This dish combines the rich, creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce with tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and artichoke hearts, making every bite a delightful experience. The crunchy, savory Parmesan broccoli serves as the perfect side, while the mushroom basil cream adds a touch of elegance and depth of flavor that ties everything together beautifully. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests, this recipe will surely become a family favorite.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups spinach, chopped
1/2 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup chicken broth
8 oz fettuccine pasta
For the Crispy Parmesan Broccoli:
2 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mushroom Basil Cream:
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

To begin making this delightful dish, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is essential for achieving that crispy texture on the broccoli that pairs perfectly with the creamy Alfredo. Start by preparing the crispy Parmesan broccoli: take your broccoli florets and lovingly coat them with olive oil, a touch of salt, and pepper. Once they’ve been seasoned, spread them out evenly on a baking sheet, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Bake these for about 20 minutes until they’re golden brown, crispy, and utterly irresistible.

While the broccoli is baking, it’s time to focus on the chicken. Bring out your two chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper. In a skillet heated over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to warm up. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest while you prepare the Alfredo sauce.

In the same skillet (to capture all those delicious flavors left behind from the chicken), add your minced garlic and sauté it for just a minute until fragrant. Next, add in the chopped spinach and artichoke hearts, followed by the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together and allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Once it’s simmering, lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses along with the dried oregano. This is where the magic happens, as you will see the sauce begin to thicken and become extra creamy; this should take around 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to taste and add salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a hint of heat.

As everything is simmering nicely, bring your attention back to the fettuccine. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, then drain it and set it aside. Now it’s time to combine: slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the sauce along with the fettuccine. Use tongs or a spatula to carefully toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with that luscious spinach-artichoke Alfredo sauce.

Now, let’s create the rich mushroom basil cream to drizzle on top. In a small skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and turn golden. Pour in the heavy cream and let this mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it’s heated through. Finally, stir in the fresh basil, along with salt and pepper to taste. This mushroom basil cream is the finishing touch that will elevate your meal.

Serve your chicken Alfredo pasta hot, adding an ample drizzle of mushroom basil cream over the top, alongside the crispy Parmesan broccoli. Enjoy this enchanting dish that is not only ready to impress, but will surely delight everyone at your table!

Variations

This Spinach-Artichoke Greek Chicken Alfredo is versatile and can be customized in many delightful ways. For those looking to add more color and flavor, consider incorporating other vegetables such as diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even sun-dried tomatoes. If you want to make it vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for added protein.

You can also experiment with the pasta type. While fettuccine is traditional, feel free to swap in penne, rigatoni, or even a gluten-free pasta alternative to keep this recipe gluten-free and suitable for various dietary needs. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the heavy cream for a lighter alternative like almond milk or coconut cream to make it dairy-free.

Cooking Notes

Cooking times can vary depending on your stove and the thickness of your chicken breasts, so be sure to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before removing it from the heat. For perfectly crispy broccoli, make sure they are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet; this will help them cook evenly and prevent steaming.

Prep your ingredients ahead of time, especially the garlic, spinach, and chopped artichokes, so everything can come together smoothly when you start cooking. Using a high-quality chicken broth will greatly enhance the flavor of the Alfredo sauce, so choose one you love. Finally, having all your spices and cheeses ready to go before starting will make the cooking process much easier.

Serving Suggestions

This indulgent dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, add a fresh garden salad topped with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the Alfredo. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta and serve with lemon wedges for a burst of freshness that enhances each bite.

Tips

Ensure to not overcook your chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
Feel free to adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
Integrate seasonal vegetables to keep the dish fresh and vibrant.
Consider using homemade Alfredo sauce for an even richer flavor.
Let the broccoli preheat longer if you prefer extra crispiness.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 550 per serving

Protein: 35g

Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce and chicken ahead of time. Reheat gently before serving and cook the fettuccine right before you’re ready to eat.

2. Is it necessary to use fettuccine?
No, you can use any pasta you prefer! Just adjust the cooking time according to the shape you choose.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
While it’s best to consume this dish fresh, you can freeze portions of the chicken and sauce. However, it’s recommended to cook the pasta fresh when you reheat the meal.

4. How can I make this dish lighter?
You can swap the heavy cream for a lower-fat alternative or use less cheese. Also, adding more vegetables can bulk up the meal without adding extra calories.

5. Can I add meat other than chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp, turkey, or even sausage can be included for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our Spinach-Artichoke Greek Chicken Alfredo with Crispy Parmesan Broccoli is a dish that brings together comfort, flavor, and nutrition in one delightful package. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap out proteins and adjust to your tastes. Don’t hesitate to give this culinary masterpiece a try and witness how it becomes a beloved addition to your family dinners. If you’ve enjoyed making or eating this dish, please leave a comment below, and feel free to share it on your social media to spread the love for home-cooked meals!