Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Succulent and flavorful, Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is the perfect dish for any occasion. This recipe offers a delightful combination of blackened chicken and creamy alfredo sauce, making it an irresistible option for family dinners, date nights, or simply when you want to treat yourself. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this delicious meal that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Experience: The blackened seasoning adds a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy alfredo sauce.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use any type of pasta you have on hand; mafaldine, fettuccini, or linguini all work wonderfully.
• Satisfying Meal: Packed with protein and rich flavors, this is a hearty dish that will keep everyone full and happy.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy restaurant-quality flavor from the comfort of your own kitchen.

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Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Meat mallet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pasta pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking for your chicken and helps develop that lovely blackened crust.
• Meat mallet: This tool helps to tenderize your chicken breasts, ensuring they cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Cooking spoon: A sturdy spoon is essential for stirring the alfredo sauce without scratching your skillet.

Ingredients

Succulent, juicy chicken breasts are blackened to perfection and paired with cajun-seasoned garlicky luscious alfredo sauce. This is one easy 30-minute meal.

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

Optional Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread
• Texas toast
• 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 even 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Rub them with olive oil.
3. Season liberally on both sides with about 2-3 tablespoons of blackened seasoning.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a skillet to 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 color on the underside.

Step 3: Finish Cooking the Chicken

1. Flip just once.
2. Reduce heat to low.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of butter into the skillet along with 2 teaspoons of minced garlic.
4. Allow garlic butter to melt into the chicken as it finishes cooking for about 5-6 minutes (or until internal temp reaches 165 degrees).
5. Remove chicken and tent with foil on a plate to rest before slicing.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

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

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Add parmesan into alfredo sauce and stir until melted; taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
2. Pour reserved pasta water into alfredo sauce; stir well.
3. Add cooked noodles into pasta; mix thoroughly before topping with sliced chicken.
4. Sprinkle additional cajun seasoning on top if desired before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo!

How to Serve Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Serving Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo can elevate your dining experience, transforming a simple meal into a culinary delight. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to complement this rich and creamy dish.

With Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up the creamy alfredo sauce.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad offers freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the alfredo.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: Adding steamed vegetables not only enhances the meal’s nutrition but also adds color and texture.

With Texas Toast

• Texas Toast: Thick slices of Texas toast provide a hearty side that pairs beautifully with the chicken and pasta.

How to Perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

To ensure your Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips for maximizing flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality parmesan cheese will significantly enhance the dish’s overall taste.
• Pound Chicken Evenly: Ensuring uniform thickness allows the chicken to cook evenly, resulting in juicy, tender meat.
• Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Keep an eye on your alfredo sauce; overcooking can lead to separation. Aim for a creamy consistency.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Adding reserved pasta water helps achieve a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the noodles.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different. Don’t hesitate to tweak spices and seasonings according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Pairing side dishes with Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, croutons, and parmesan complements the creamy pasta well.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These nutty little veggies add a delightful contrast in flavor and texture.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic serve as a comforting side that works wonderfully with this dish.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is sweet and crunchy, making it a great summer side option.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing balance to the richness of the alfredo sauce.
6. Fried Green Tomatoes: This Southern classic adds both crunch and tanginess that pairs nicely with the flavors of Cajun seasoning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, a few common mistakes can hinder your cooking experience. Here are some to watch out for:

• Using cold chicken – Always use chicken at room temperature before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect blackened crust.
• Neglecting seasoning – Don’t skip on the blackened seasoning! It’s essential for flavor. Be generous when applying it to the chicken for the best results.
• Overcooking the pasta – Cook noodles to al dente for optimal texture. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
• Skipping resting time – Letting chicken rest after cooking is crucial. This keeps it juicy and allows flavors to settle in.
• Not adjusting sauce thickness – If your alfredo is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It 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 until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) on medium power, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo:

How spicy is Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

The dish has a moderate spice level due to cayenne pepper in the seasoning. Adjust the amount of cayenne used according to your preference.

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While mafaldine is recommended, you can substitute with fettuccini, linguini, or even penne if desired.

What can I serve with Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

Pair it with garlic bread, Texas toast, or garlic knots for a delightful meal experience.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the blackened chicken and alfredo sauce separately and combine them when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is not just a treat; it’s also versatile and customizable. You can adjust the spice levels or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an extra kick. Try this comforting dish today and enjoy its rich flavors any night of the week!