Succulent, juicy chicken breasts are blackened to perfection and paired with cajun-seasoned garlicky luscious alfredo sauce in this Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo recipe. This dish is perfect for family dinners, date nights, or any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, it offers rich flavors and creamy textures that will delight your taste buds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of blackened chicken and creamy alfredo sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it on its own or with garlic bread or salad for a complete meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for families and guests alike, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of cajun seasoning to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To successfully prepare Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the chicken.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly, especially when preparing sauces.
Ingredients
For this delicious Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, gather the following ingredients:
For the Pasta
- 1 lb. Mafaldine noodles (or fettuccini/linguini noodles)
For the Chicken
- 3 chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons blackened seasoning, divided
For the Sauce
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 6-8 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1.5 cups shredded parmesan cheese
Spices and Seasonings
- 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
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pound chicken breasts 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 the chicken for about 3-4 minutes, or until it develops a dark amber color on one side.
Step 3: Finish Cooking the Chicken
Flip the chicken just once. Reduce heat to low and add 2 tablespoons of butter along with 2 teaspoons of minced garlic. Allow the garlic butter to melt into the chicken as it cooks for another 5-6 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 4: Rest the Chicken
Remove from skillet and place on a plate covered loosely 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 remaining minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 6: Add Cream
Stir in heavy cream along with 2-3 teaspoons of blackened seasoning. Bring to a low simmer allowing it to thicken over about five minutes.
Step 7: Cook Noodles
While sauce simmers, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/3 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 8: Combine Sauce with Cheese
Add shredded parmesan into alfredo sauce and stir until fully melted. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
Step 9: Finish Dish
Pour reserved pasta water into alfredo sauce; mix well. Add cooked noodles into the sauce mixture, tossing everything together before topping with sliced chicken. Optionally sprinkle extra cajun seasoning over noodles before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo!
How to Serve Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo
Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a rich and flavorful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate this delicious meal.
With Garlic Bread
- Garlic Bread – Crispy, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy alfredo sauce, allowing you to soak up every last drop.
On a Bed of Greens
- Mixed Greens – Serve the pasta on top of a fresh bed of mixed greens for a light contrast to the richness of the dish.
With Extra Cajun Seasoning
- Sprinkle More Cajun Spice – For those who love heat, adding an extra sprinkle of cajun seasoning can amp up the flavor profile.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Fresh Parsley or Basil – A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds brightness and a pop of color, making your dish visually appealing.
Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables
- Roasted Veggies – Pairing this dish with roasted vegetables adds not only nutrition but also a satisfying crunch.
With a Side Salad
- Simple Side Salad – A light side salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the alfredo without overwhelming the palate.
How to Perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo
To make sure your Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh chicken and high-quality parmesan cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
Pound the Chicken Evenly – Ensuring the chicken breasts are of even thickness helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
Control Your Heat – Cooking on medium-high heat initially gives that beautiful blackened crust, while lowering it later prevents overcooking.
Reserve Pasta Water – Keeping some pasta water allows you to adjust the sauce’s consistency, making it creamier as needed.
Taste as You Go – Always taste your sauce before serving; adjusting seasonings at any point ensures maximum flavor.
Serve Immediately – This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right after cooking for optimal creaminess and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo
Complement your Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo with these delightful side dishes that balance its rich flavors.
- Caesar Salad – A classic caesar salad provides crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing that pairs well with the richness of alfredo.
- Steamed Asparagus – Lightly steamed asparagus adds a touch of elegance and freshness to the meal.
- Garlic Knots – Soft garlic knots are perfect for dipping into the alfredo sauce.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob adds a pop of sweetness that contrasts nicely with spicy cajun flavors.
- Bruschetta – Fresh tomato bruschetta offers a refreshing bite that brightens up your plate.
- Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes provide a hearty side option that fills you up without overpowering the main dish.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw gives crunch and acidity, balancing out the creamy pasta.
- Fried Green Tomatoes – Crispy fried green tomatoes add Southern charm and texture that pairs beautifully with this dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo turns out perfectly, be aware of these common pitfalls.
Skipping the seasoning: Many people underestimate the importance of seasoning the chicken. Always rub the chicken generously with blackened seasoning for a flavorful dish.
Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the noodles beyond al dente can lead to mushy texture in your dish. Follow package instructions and taste test to achieve that perfect bite.
Neglecting to reserve pasta water: Not saving some pasta water means missing out on a creamy sauce. This starchy water helps thicken and bind the sauce to the noodles beautifully.
Ignoring sauce thickness: If your Alfredo sauce is too thin, it won’t cling properly to the noodles. Allow it to simmer longer, or add more cheese for a thicker consistency.
Not letting chicken rest: Cutting into your chicken right after cooking can cause juices to escape, making it dry. Always let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make sure to let the dish cool down before sealing it in the container.
Freezing Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Separate portions if you plan to reheat only what you need later.
Reheating Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if needed, stirring frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo spicier?
You can add more cayenne pepper or use a spicier blackened seasoning mix. Adjust according to your heat preference.
Can I substitute other types of pasta?
Yes! While mafaldine is recommended, you can easily use fettuccini or linguini depending on what you have on hand.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of butter used in the sauce for a lighter version without sacrificing too much flavor.
What should I serve with Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, salads, or steamed vegetables for added freshness and crunch.
Can I prepare Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook everything in advance and store it separately. Just combine and reheat when ready to serve for best results.
Final Thoughts
Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different proteins or veggies based on your preferences. This easy 30-minute meal is perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners. Give it a try and enjoy all its creamy goodness!
Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, a perfect 30-minute dish that effortlessly combines succulent blackened chicken breasts with a creamy, garlicky Alfredo sauce. This culinary delight is not only quick and easy to prepare but also versatile enough to impress your family and guests on any occasion. Serve it over tender mafaldine noodles or your pasta of choice, and elevate the meal with garlic bread or a fresh salad. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish promises a flavor explosion that will leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients
- 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
- Blackened seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness; season both sides with olive oil and blackened seasoning.
- Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil for about 3-4 minutes until dark amber.
- Flip the chicken once, reduce heat, add butter and garlic, and cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest the chicken before slicing.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter, sauté garlic, then add heavy cream and blackened seasoning; simmer until thickened.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; reserve some pasta water before draining.
- Combine sauce with parmesan cheese until melted; mix in reserved pasta water and cooked noodles.
- Serve topped with sliced chicken and garnish with parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 740
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 47g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
Keywords: Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of blackened seasoning. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.