Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Succulent and flavorful, Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a delightful dish that combines perfectly blackened chicken with a rich and creamy alfredo sauce. This recipe is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, it’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.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of blackened seasoning and creamy alfredo creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the pasta or adjust the spiciness to suit your preferences.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and textures make this meal visually appealing, perfect for entertaining guests.
• Comfort Food: This hearty dish satisfies cravings while still being simple enough for everyday meals.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the chicken and helps in making the alfredo sauce seamlessly.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Choosing a pot that holds enough water prevents pasta from sticking together during cooking.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness allows it to cook evenly and develop that delicious blackened crust.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These are perfect for stirring sauces without scratching your cookware.

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

Seasoning Blend

• 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 Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread, Texas toast, or garlic knots

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 color on one side. Flip just once.

Step 3: Add Garlic Butter

Reduce heat to low. Add 2 tablespoons of butter into the skillet along with 2 teaspoons of minced garlic. Allow this mixture to melt into the chicken as it cooks for another 5-6 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 4: Rest the Chicken

Remove cooked chicken from the 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. Once melted, add in remaining minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6: Combine Cream and Seasoning

Stir in heavy cream and 2-3 teaspoons of blackened seasoning. Bring to a simmer allowing it to thicken slightly over about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Cook Pasta

Meanwhile, cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente, reserving about 1/3 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 8: Finish the Sauce

Add parmesan cheese into the alfredo sauce and stir until fully melted. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 9: Combine Everything

Pour reserved pasta water into the alfredo sauce then mix in cooked noodles. Top with sliced chicken and sprinkle additional cajun seasoning if desired before serving.

How to Serve Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Serving Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and garnishes to enhance its rich flavors.

With Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread is a classic choice that complements the creamy alfredo sauce. The buttery, garlicky flavors are a perfect match.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chicken Alfredo over a fresh bed of greens for a light and refreshing contrast. Spinach or arugula works well.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrients to your meal. Choose veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for an excellent pairing.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh parsley or cilantro brings brightness to the dish. It also adds a lovely pop of color.

With a Side Salad

• A simple side salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the Alfredo sauce. Consider mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.

How to Perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Achieving the perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo requires attention to detail in both cooking and seasoning.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality chicken will enhance flavor significantly.
• Monitor heat carefully: Cooking chicken on medium-high heat helps achieve that beautiful blackened crust without overcooking.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Add more blackened seasoning if you prefer extra spice.
• Reserve pasta water: This starchy water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency without losing flavor.
• Let chicken rest: Allowing cooked chicken to rest before slicing keeps it juicy and tender.
• Experiment with noodles: While mafaldine is great, feel free to try fettuccini or linguini based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Pairing side dishes with Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo can create a well-rounded meal. Below are some delicious suggestions to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with roasted garlic provide a comforting companion to the spiced chicken.
2. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and health benefits while balancing the richness of the dish.
3. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine topped with creamy Caesar dressing enhances each bite and brings freshness to your plate.
4. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob is an enjoyable side that adds sweetness and texture, especially when grilled or roasted.
5. Baked Zucchini Fries
   These healthy fries are crispy on the outside and soft inside, making them an excellent finger food option alongside your main course.
6. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that can lighten up the meal beautifully while adding extra flavor layers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and avoiding common mistakes is key to making the perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo.

• Ignoring the Chicken Thickness: Not pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Always pound them to 1/4 inch for consistent results.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many chicken pieces in the skillet at once can lower the temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: Forgetting to reserve some pasta water can affect the sauce’s consistency. Always save about 1/3 cup before draining your noodles.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Tasting the sauce before serving is crucial. Adjust seasonings as needed for optimal flavor. Don’t hesitate to add more blackened seasoning or salt if it needs a boost.
• Neglecting Resting Time: Cutting into chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out. Let it rest under tented foil for better moisture retention.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 2 months for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to maintain creaminess. Stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo.

What is Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a creamy pasta dish featuring blackened chicken breast seasoned with Cajun spices, tossed in a rich alfredo sauce.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes! While mafaldine is ideal, fettuccini or linguini noodles also work great for this recipe. Choose your favorite!

How spicy is the Blackened Cajun seasoning?

The spice level depends on your preference; you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper used in the seasoning mix for a milder or spicier dish.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the sauce.

How can I customize my Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for more nutrition and flavor. You can also try different cheese varieties for a unique twist!

Final Thoughts

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. This quick meal is perfect for busy weeknights and offers plenty of room for customization based on personal taste. Give it a try today!

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Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

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

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Description

Enjoy creamy Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo ready in just 30 minutes! This flavorful dish combines spices and rich sauce—perfect for dinner!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb. Mafaldine noodles (or fettuccini/linguini noodles)
• 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, divided
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 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

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Instructions

1. 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.
2. 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 color on one side. Flip just once.
3. Reduce heat to low. Add 2 tablespoons of butter into the skillet along with 2 teaspoons of minced garlic. Allow this mixture to melt into the chicken as it cooks for another 5-6 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
4. Remove cooked chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate tented with foil to rest before slicing.
5. In the same skillet over medium heat, add remaining butter. Once melted, add in remaining minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Stir in heavy cream and 2-3 teaspoons of blackened seasoning. Bring to a simmer allowing it to thicken slightly over about 5 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente, reserving about 1/3 cup of pasta water before draining.
8. Add parmesan cheese into the alfredo sauce and stir until fully melted. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
9. Pour reserved pasta water into the alfredo sauce then mix in cooked noodles. Top with sliced chicken and sprinkle additional cajun seasoning if desired before serving.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 340g)
• Calories: 720
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 47g
• Saturated Fat: 25g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 120mg