Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Succulent, juicy chicken breasts are blackened to perfection and paired with cajun-seasoned garlicky luscious alfredo sauce. This Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is an easy 30-minute meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Its rich and creamy flavor combined with a spicy kick makes it a standout dish that will impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This dish takes only 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The blackened seasoning adds a unique depth of flavor that elevates the creamy alfredo.
• Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it with garlic bread or toss in some vegetables for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly Dish: The creamy sauce and tender chicken appeal to both kids and adults.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the dish make it visually appealing on any dining table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can simplify the cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect blackened crust on your chicken.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Using a large pot allows the noodles to cook evenly without sticking together.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for evenly slicing chicken, ensuring proper cooking and presentation.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

• 1 lb. Mafaldine noodles (or fettuccini/linguini noodles)

For the Chicken

• 3 chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

• 6 tablespoons butter
• 6-8 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1.5 cups shredded parmesan cheese
• 4 tablespoons blackened seasoning, divided (recipe is below)
• salt and pepper

Optional Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread, Texas toast or garlic knots

For the Blackened Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika (regular paprika works too)
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

How to Make Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pound chicken to an even 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Rub them with olive oil and season liberally on both sides with about 2-3 tablespoons of blackened seasoning.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan.
3. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes until it has a dark amber coloring on one side.
4. Flip just once; reduce heat to low.
5. Add 2 tablespoons of butter along with 2 teaspoons of minced garlic into the skillet, allowing it to melt into the chicken as it finishes cooking (about 5-6 minutes or until internal temp reaches 165 degrees).

Step 3: Rest and Slice Chicken

1. Remove chicken from skillet and place on a plate; tent with foil to rest before slicing.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. In the same skillet over medium heat, add remaining butter and melt.
2. Add remaining minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in heavy cream and 2-3 teaspoons of blackened seasoning; bring to a low boil over simmer, allowing it to thicken (about 5 minutes).

Step 5: Cook Pasta

1. While sauce simmers, cook noodles to al dente according to package instructions, reserving 1/3 cup of pasta water.

Step 6: Combine Sauce and Pasta

1. Add parmesan into alfredo sauce; stir until melted.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
3. Pour reserved pasta water into alfredo sauce; stir well.
4. Add cooked noodles into sauce; mix thoroughly before topping with sliced chicken.

Now you’re ready to serve your delicious Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo! Enjoy this flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

How to Serve Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Serving Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is an opportunity to enhance its delicious flavors with complementary sides and garnishes. Here are some fantastic ways to present this dish that will impress your family and friends.

With Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy alfredo sauce.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: Bright green vegetables add color and nutrition while providing a nice crunch next to the creamy dish.

With Additional Cajun Spices

• Cajun Seasoning Sprinkle: Just before serving, dust a little extra cajun seasoning over the top for an added kick and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

To achieve that restaurant-quality flavor and texture in your Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Use generous amounts of blackened seasoning on your chicken for maximum flavor. This spice mixture defines the dish’s character.
• Pound Evenly: Ensure your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking. This helps avoid dry spots.
• Watch Cooking Time: Cook chicken only until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Overcooking can lead to tough meat.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Save some pasta water before draining; it helps adjust the sauce’s consistency without diluting flavor.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. For a thinner sauce, add more reserved pasta water gradually.

Best Side Dishes for Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Pairing side dishes with Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, chewy knots brushed with garlic butter make perfect companions for sopping up leftover sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing brings a delightful crunch that contrasts well with creamy pasta.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a burst of flavor and a fun element to your plate—grill or boil for best results.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crunchy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with olive oil and salt provide a nutritious side with earthy tones.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes complements the spicy flavors of the chicken nicely.
6. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes offer a tangy bite that pairs well with rich alfredo sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be a delightful experience, but mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when making Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo.

• Bold Seasoning: Over-seasoning the chicken can overwhelm the dish. Start with a moderate amount of blackened seasoning and adjust to taste.

• Skipping the Resting Period: Cutting into chicken immediately after cooking can lead to dry meat. Let it rest covered in foil for a few minutes to retain its juices.

• Rushing the Sauce: Cooking the sauce too quickly can prevent it from thickening properly. Allow it to simmer gently so that it reaches the right consistency.

• Not Reserving Pasta Water: Forgetting to save pasta water means losing a great tool for adjusting sauce consistency. Always reserve some before draining your noodles.

• Under- or Overcooking Noodles: Cooking noodles improperly can ruin texture. Aim for al dente by following package directions closely and tasting as they cook.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo.

What is Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a creamy pasta dish featuring seasoned chicken breast cooked until charred and flavorful, paired with rich alfredo sauce.

Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes, you can substitute mafaldine with fettuccini, linguini, or any other pasta shape you prefer!

How spicy is Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning blend.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the point of cooking the chicken and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a deliciously rich meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try different pasta shapes or add your favorite vegetables!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the bold flavors of Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, a delightful dish that marries succulent chicken breasts with a creamy, garlicky alfredo sauce. This 30-minute recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The blackened seasoning adds a spicy twist that elevates the rich alfredo, making it a standout favorite at the dinner table. Serve it alongside garlic bread or fresh vegetables to create a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy every palate.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb Mafaldine noodles (or fettuccini/linguini)
• 3 chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 6–8 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1.5 cups shredded parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

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Instructions

1. Pound the chicken to an even thickness and rub with olive oil and blackened seasoning.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until dark amber on one side; flip and add butter and garlic.
3. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F; let rest before slicing.
4. In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté garlic. Stir in cream and seasoning; simmer until thickened.
5. Cook pasta according to package instructions, reserving pasta water.
6. Combine cooked noodles with alfredo sauce and sliced chicken.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet Cooking
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 720
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 48g
• Saturated Fat: 26g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 135mg