Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Succulent, juicy chicken breasts are blackened to perfection and paired with cajun-seasoned garlicky luscious alfredo sauce. This is one easy 30-minute meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The rich flavors combined with creamy textures create a dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo delivers on taste and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor-Packed: The blackened seasoning adds a bold kick, perfectly complementing the creamy alfredo.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or pair it with garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Family Favorite: With its delicious flavors, this dish appeals to both adults and kids alike.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the sauce in advance and simply heat when ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for creating this delicious Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Mixing bowl
• Pasta pot
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A quality skillet ensures even cooking of the chicken, providing that desired blackened crust.
• Pasta Pot: Using a large pot allows ample space for the noodles to cook evenly without sticking together.
• Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients like your blackened seasoning before applying it to the chicken.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

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

For the Chicken

• 3 chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons olive oil

For the Alfredo 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

Additional Flavorings

• Optional: garlic bread, Texas toast or garlic knots for serving
• 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: Prep 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, and add 2 tablespoons of butter along with 2 teaspoons of minced garlic.
5. Allow the garlic butter to melt into the chicken while it finishes cooking, about 5-6 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.

Step 3: Rest the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from the skillet and place on a plate covered with tented 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 in remaining minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in heavy cream and 2-3 teaspoons of blackened seasoning; bring it to a low boil over simmer allowing it to thicken for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

1. While sauce simmers, cook noodles in salted water until al dente, reserving 1/3 cup of pasta water.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

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

This Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is sure to impress! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a dish that delivers a burst of flavor and comfort in every bite. To elevate your dining experience, consider these serving suggestions.

With Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly and is great for soaking up any extra alfredo.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Add a pop of color and nutrition with steamed broccoli, which adds freshness to balance the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil and roast until tender for a deliciously crunchy side.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crunch and tanginess that pairs well with the creamy pasta.
• House Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette can add lightness to the meal.

With Texas Toast

• Texas Toast: Thick slices of Texas toast are perfect for dipping into the alfredo sauce while adding a delightful crunch.

How to Perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

To ensure your Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and high-quality chicken breasts for maximum flavor.
• Control Heat Levels: Adjust your skillet temperature carefully when cooking chicken to achieve that perfect blackened crust without burning.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Saving some pasta water helps you adjust the sauce’s consistency, making it creamier without becoming too thick.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your sauce before serving to ensure it’s seasoned just right. Adjust flavors accordingly.
• Rest Your Chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking keeps it juicy and flavorful when sliced.

Best Side Dishes for Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

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

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these potatoes make a hearty side.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn can add a refreshing crunch that complements the dish beautifully.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the smoothness of the alfredo sauce.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light side that balances richer flavors.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with cajun spices.
6. Minestrone Soup: A warm bowl of minestrone soup can start your meal off nicely while adding more vegetables to your dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you create the perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Using too little seasoning can leave your dish bland. Be sure to generously apply the blackened seasoning on the chicken for maximum flavor.
• Skipping resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can dry it out. Always allow it to rest under foil to keep it juicy.
• Overcooking noodles: Cooking pasta beyond al dente can lead to mushy noodles. Make sure to follow package instructions and taste test for perfect texture.
• Not reserving pasta water: Missing out on saving pasta water limits your sauce’s ability to cling well to the noodles. Always save a bit of water before draining your pasta.
• Ignoring sauce thickness: If your alfredo sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the noodles properly. Let it simmer until it thickens up nicely before adding cheese.
• Neglecting taste adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can result in a flat dish. Always taste the sauce before serving and tweak as necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dish cool and away from heat sources.

Freezing Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring between each, until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo spicier?

You can increase the cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning or add hot sauce when mixing the alfredo sauce for extra heat.

Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes! While mafaldine is recommended, fettuccini or linguini work well too. Choose any noodle that you prefer.

How long does it take to make this recipe?

This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for dinner.

What is blackened seasoning made of?

Blackened seasoning typically includes spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and herbs such as thyme and oregano.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or substitute chicken with turkey or beef for variety.

Final Thoughts

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is not just delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables. This creamy dish is sure to impress at family dinners or casual gatherings—give it a try today!

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: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the rich and vibrant flavors of Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, a delightful dish that combines perfectly seasoned chicken and creamy alfredo sauce. This 30-minute meal is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, making it a family favorite. The bold blackened seasoning adds a spicy kick that complements the luscious garlic-infused alfredo sauce, creating a comfort food experience everyone will enjoy. Serve it with your favorite pasta and garlic bread for an unforgettable dining experience.

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Ingredients

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• 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
• 4 tablespoons blackened seasoning
• Salt and pepper

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Instructions

1. Flatten chicken breasts to an even thickness and rub with olive oil and blackened seasoning.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil, and cook chicken for about 3-4 minutes until dark amber on one side. Flip, reduce heat, add butter and garlic, cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. In the same skillet, melt remaining butter, sauté garlic, then stir in heavy cream and blackened seasoning; simmer to thicken.
4. Cook noodles until al dente, reserving some pasta water. Combine cooked noodles with sauce and top with sliced chicken.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg