Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Succulent, juicy chicken breasts are blackened to perfection and paired with cajun-seasoned garlicky luscious alfredo sauce. Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is an easy 30-minute meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The rich flavors and creamy texture will impress your family and friends, making it a standout dish at any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of blackened chicken and creamy alfredo sauce delivers a delightful burst of flavors.
• Versatile Ingredients: Substitute ingredients based on what you have at home without sacrificing taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
• Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make this dish the ultimate comfort food.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, you’ll need some essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect blackened crust on the chicken.
• Pot for boiling noodles: Using a large pot allows ample space for noodles to cook evenly without sticking together.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: This tool helps pound the chicken to an even thickness, ensuring it cooks uniformly.
• Mixing spoon: A sturdy mixing spoon is essential for stirring the alfredo sauce until smooth and creamy.

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

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

Optional Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread, Texas toast, or garlic knots

How to Make Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Step 1: Prepare 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. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan.
2. Cook the chicken for 3–4 minutes until it has a dark amber coloring on one side.
3. Flip the chicken just once, reduce heat to low, add 2 tablespoons of butter along with 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, allowing it to melt into the chicken as it finishes cooking (about 5–6 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees).
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and place on a plate covered with tented foil to rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. In the same skillet over medium heat, add remaining butter and melt it down.
2. Add in remaining minced garlic; sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in heavy cream and 2–3 teaspoons of blackened seasoning; bring to a low boil while simmering for about 5 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

1. While sauce simmers, cook noodles in a separate pot according to package instructions until al dente; reserve 1/3 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add parmesan cheese into alfredo sauce; stir until melted.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed; pour reserved pasta water into sauce and stir well.
3. Combine cooked noodles with alfredo sauce; mix thoroughly before topping with sliced chicken and an extra sprinkle of cajun seasoning if desired.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo!

How to Serve Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Serving Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo can elevate your dining experience. This dish is rich and flavorful, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to complement your delicious creation.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy alfredo sauce, offering a delightful contrast in texture.

Add Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness and balances the richness of the pasta.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus can add color and nutrients to your plate.

Serve with Wine Vinegar Dressing

• Wine Vinegar Dressing: A light drizzle of homemade wine vinegar dressing over the salad can enhance flavors without overpowering the dish.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Parsley or Basil: Chopped fresh herbs sprinkled on top of the dish can provide a burst of freshness and vibrant color.

Offer Lemon Wedges

• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken adds brightness and enhances all the savory flavors in this dish.

How to Perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Achieving perfection in your Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you create an unforgettable meal.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the blackened seasoning. Generously coat the chicken to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

• Perfect Pasta Texture: Cook your noodles just until al dente. This will prevent them from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.

• Creamy Sauce Consistency: Allow the heavy cream to simmer long enough to thicken properly before adding the parmesan cheese for a velvety texture.

• Resting Time for Chicken: Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows its juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender.

• Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste your alfredo sauce as you go. Adjust seasonings slowly for a well-balanced flavor profile tailored to your liking.

Best Side Dishes for Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

When planning a meal around Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, consider these delicious side dishes that complement its rich flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs well with this pasta dish.

2. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach in olive oil offers a healthy green option that adds color and nutrients.

3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing brings crunch and zestiness that balances out the rich alfredo.

4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a fun finger food option that adds sweetness and texture contrast.

5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the pasta.

6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts offer a nutty flavor that complements spicy Cajun seasoning beautifully.

7. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on skewers provide a refreshing bite before indulging in rich pasta.

8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and fiber, rounding out your meal healthily and deliciously.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-ideal results.

• Using the wrong pasta: Selecting a pasta that doesn’t hold sauce well can affect the dish’s overall flavor. Stick to mafaldine, fettuccini, or linguini for the best texture.
• Not seasoning the chicken enough: Skipping ample seasoning leads to bland chicken. Use at least 2-3 tablespoons of blackened seasoning for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165 degrees for juicy results.
• Neglecting the garlic: Burning garlic while sautéing can impart a bitter taste. Keep an eye on it and sauté just until fragrant.
• Skipping reserved pasta water: This water helps thicken the sauce, enhancing its creaminess. Always save some before draining the noodles.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish.

How do I make Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo less spicy?

To reduce spice, use less cayenne pepper in your blackened seasoning or substitute with regular paprika.

Can I use other proteins in Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

Yes! You can easily swap out chicken for beef or turkey based on your preference.

Is there a vegetarian version of Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a hearty meal.

How do I store leftovers of Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is not only quick to prepare but also offers rich flavors that are sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it with vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a delightful meal!