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 busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish is sure to impress anyone at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of blackened seasoning and creamy alfredo sauce delivers a mouthwatering experience that’s both savory and satisfying.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for family dinners, date nights, or even meal prep for the week ahead, this dish can suit any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a hit with children, ensuring everyone will enjoy their meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or serve it with garlic bread for an extra touch!

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or spatula
• Meat mallet

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet: A good-quality skillet provides even heat distribution, essential for achieving that perfect blackened crust on the chicken.
• Pot for boiling noodles: Using a large pot ensures that the noodles cook evenly without sticking together.
• Tongs or spatula: These tools help you easily flip the chicken without disturbing the seasoning.

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 (recipe is below)
• salt and pepper

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

Optional:
– Garlic bread, Texas toast or garlic knots for serving

How to Make Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

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

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan. Cook chicken for 3–4 minutes until it has a dark amber coloring on one side.

Step 3: Finish Cooking the Chicken

Flip the chicken just once and reduce heat to low. Add 2 tablespoons of butter along with 2 teaspoons of minced garlic into the skillet. Let the garlic butter melt into the chicken as it finishes cooking for about 5–6 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.

Step 4: Rest the Chicken

Remove cooked chicken from skillet and place it on a plate tented with foil to rest before slicing.

Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet over medium heat, add remaining butter and let it melt. Add in remaining minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6: Combine Cream and Cheese

Stir in heavy cream along with 2–3 teaspoons of blackened seasoning. Bring to a low boil while allowing it to thicken for about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Cook Noodles

While sauce simmers, cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/3 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 8: Mix Sauce with Parmesan

Add shredded parmesan into alfredo sauce and stir until melted. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 9: Combine Everything

Pour reserved pasta water into alfredo sauce and stir well. Add cooked noodles into sauce mixture; mix thoroughly before topping with sliced chicken. For an extra kick, sprinkle additional cajun seasoning over noodles before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo!

How to Serve Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a delicious and hearty dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy alfredo sauce, providing a perfect contrast in texture.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a burst of freshness that enhances the dish’s overall flavor.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light side salad, such as a Caesar or mixed greens, adds crunch and balances the richness of the pasta.

Top with Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle additional shredded parmesan on top before serving for an extra cheesy delight that cheese lovers will adore.

Offer Lemon Wedges

• Lemon wedges provide a zesty twist when squeezed over the chicken, brightening up the flavors of the dish.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrients while offering a sweet and savory balance to the meal.

How to Perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Perfecting this recipe ensures each bite is full of flavor and satisfaction. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

• Use Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, organic chicken breasts for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Control the Heat: Ensure your skillet is hot enough when cooking chicken to achieve that beautiful blackened crust without overcooking.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your alfredo sauce before serving; don’t hesitate to tweak spices based on your preference.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Keep some pasta water handy; it helps adjust sauce consistency without sacrificing flavor.
• Experiment with Noodles: Try different types of noodles like fettuccini or even gluten-free options for variety.
• Rest the Chicken: Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps retain moisture, making it juicier when sliced.

Best Side Dishes for Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

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

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic and herbs make for an irresistible side.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy crunch that complements the creamy pasta well.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the heavier pasta.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasting these sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, pairing beautifully with robust flavors.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds texture and sweetness; grill or boil until tender for great results.
6. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with cucumbers and tomatoes provides a refreshing side that balances richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Bold seasoning application: Not using enough blackened seasoning can lead to bland chicken. Make sure to season generously on both sides before cooking.
• Incorrect chicken thickness: Cooking unevenly due to varying chicken thickness can result in dry or undercooked meat. Pound the chicken to a consistent 1/4 inch thickness for even cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked noodles will become mushy and lose their texture. Always cook the pasta to al dente, ensuring it maintains a nice bite.
• Neglecting garlic timing: Adding garlic too early can cause it to burn and taste bitter. Sauté garlic just until fragrant for a perfect flavor balance.
• Ignoring sauce consistency: A watery sauce can ruin the dish’s richness. Allow the heavy cream to simmer until it thickens properly before adding cheese.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing for optimal freshness.

Freezing Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible.
• The dish can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until warmed evenly, about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until hot, around 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a delicious pasta dish featuring seasoned chicken breasts cooked until blackened and served with a rich Alfredo sauce.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While mafaldine is recommended, you can use fettuccini or linguini based on your preference.

How spicy is Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

The spice level can be adjusted by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper used in the seasoning mix. Feel free to start with less if you’re sensitive to heat.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition or substitute chicken with other proteins such as turkey or lamb.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Conclusion

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is not only quick and easy but also incredibly flavorful and versatile. You can customize it with your choice of pasta or add vegetables for extra nutrition. Give this delightful dish a try; it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!

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