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 is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The combination of flavors will make your taste buds dance while the creamy sauce brings comfort to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The blackened seasoning adds a bold kick, perfectly complemented by the creamy alfredo sauce.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with various sides like garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: The rich flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it a hit at any dinner table.
• Impressive Presentation: With its vibrant colors and creamy texture, this dish looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Pot for boiling noodles

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that desirable blackened flavor on the chicken.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in your alfredo sauce.
• Knife & Cutting Board: Essential for preparing your chicken and garlic quickly and safely.

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Ingredients

To create this delightful Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 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
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Seasonings

• 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

Instructions:
1. Pound chicken to even 1/4 inch thickness, rub them with oil, and season liberally on both sides (about 2-3 tablespoons of seasoning).
2. Heat a skillet to medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to the pan and cook chicken for 3-4 minutes (or until it has a dark amber coloring on the underside).
3. Flip just once, reduce the heat to low. Add 2 tablespoons of butter into the skillet along with 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, allowing the garlic butter to melt into the chicken as it finishes cooking for about 5-6 minutes (or until internal temp reaches 165 degrees).
4. Remove chicken and place on a plate with tented foil to rest before slicing.
5. In the same skillet over medium heat, add in remaining butter and melt. Add in the rest of the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
6. Stir in heavy cream and 2-3 teaspoons of blackened seasoning. Bring to a low boil over simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 5 minutes.
7. While sauce simmers, cook noodles to al dente, reserving 1/3 cup of pasta water.
8. Add parmesan into alfredo sauce and stir until melted. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
9. Pour reserved pasta water into alfredo sauce and stir. Mix cooked noodles into pasta; top with chicken. Optionally sprinkle additional cajun seasoning on top before serving.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 871 kcal

How to Serve Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Serving Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is all about complementing its rich and spicy flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

With Garlic Bread

• Crispy and Buttery: Serve warm, crispy garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch that balances the creamy pasta.

Over Fresh Greens

• Light and Refreshing: Place a handful of mixed greens or arugula under the pasta. The freshness adds a nice contrast to the richness of the alfredo sauce.

Topped with Extra Parmesan

• Cheesy Goodness: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese enhances the flavor and adds an appealing visual touch.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Colorful and Nutritious: A side salad with seasonal vegetables and a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing bite alongside the hearty pasta.

How to Perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Perfecting your Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo involves attention to detail at every step. Here are some essential tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, high-quality parmesan, and vibrant herbs will make your sauce sing with flavor.
• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Ensuring that chicken breasts are of uniform thickness helps them cook evenly and achieve that perfect blackened crust.
• Control Your Heat: Start cooking on medium-high heat for searing, then lower it when adding butter and garlic to prevent burning.
• Reserve Pasta Water Wisely: This starchy water can help adjust the sauce’s consistency while adding more flavor.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning gradually while cooking. This helps you achieve the perfect balance of flavors in your alfredo sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo with delicious side dishes. These options will complement the bold flavors of your main dish.

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A simple yet nutritious option; lightly steaming broccoli retains its bright green color and crisp texture.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing, croutons, and parmesan provides a classic contrast to rich pasta.

3. Roasted Asparagus
   Drizzle asparagus spears with olive oil, season, and roast until tender for an elegant addition to your meal.

4. Garlic Herb Rice
   Fluffy rice cooked with garlic and fresh herbs serves as a neutral base that absorbs any extra alfredo sauce.

5. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brings a pop of color; grill or boil it for added sweetness that pairs well with spicy cajun flavors.

6. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice add flair and nutritional value; bake until tender for a comforting side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect Chicken Thickness: Failing to pound chicken breasts to an even thickness can result in uneven cooking. Always ensure they are about 1/4 inch thick for consistent results.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Skipping the Pasta Water: Not reserving pasta water means missing out on a great way to adjust sauce consistency. Always save about 1/3 cup of pasta water before draining your noodles.

• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Under-seasoned sauce can lead to bland flavors. Taste your Alfredo sauce before serving and adjust seasonings as needed for the best flavor.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality cheese or cream can affect the dish’s richness. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for a truly decadent Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow to cool before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce while stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo:

What is Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a flavorful dish featuring blackened chicken served over creamy fettuccini noodles coated in rich Alfredo sauce.

How can I customize my Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or by using different kinds of pasta.

Can I make Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving for optimal freshness.

What is blackened seasoning made of?

Blackened seasoning typically includes smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, thyme, and oregano.

Final Thoughts

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is both delicious and versatile. This creamy pasta dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds!