Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Craving a creamy, flavorful, and slightly spicy pasta dish? Look no further than this Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo! This rich and savory recipe features blackened chicken breast paired with a decadent, creamy Alfredo sauce and served over tender Mafaldine noodles (or your favorite pasta). The homemade blackened seasoning adds a smoky and spicy kick to the juicy chicken, creating a perfect contrast with the smooth, cheesy Alfredo sauce.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and spice from the blackened seasoning come together in harmony for a mouthwatering meal that the whole family will love. Bonus points for serving it with some delicious garlic bread or Texas toast to scoop up the extra sauce!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold and Flavorful

The homemade blackened seasoning gives the chicken an incredible smoky, spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce.

2. Creamy and Rich

The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce that envelops the pasta beautifully.

3. Simple Yet Impressive

Though it looks and tastes like a gourmet dish, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and is sure to wow your guests.

4. Customizable Heat

Adjust the level of spice to your preference by adding more or less cayenne pepper to the blackened seasoning.

5. Perfect for Pasta Lovers

If you love creamy pasta dishes, this Cajun-inspired Alfredo is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Blackened Seasoning:

• 3 chicken breasts
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons blackened seasoning (divided, see recipe below)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 6 tablespoons butter
• 6-8 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1.5 cups shredded Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb Mafaldine noodles (or fettuccine/linguini noodles)

Optional:

• Garlic bread, Texas toast, or garlic knots for serving

My Homemade 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
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

Variations

1. Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.
2. Make It Spicier: If you love heat, increase the cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
3. Substitute the Chicken: Try shrimp, steak, or even tofu for a different protein option.
4. Lighten It Up: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or use a lighter cheese to reduce the richness without sacrificing flavor.
5. Add Fresh Herbs: Top the dish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Blackened Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, thyme, and oregano. Stir until well-mixed.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Rub the chicken breasts with 2 tablespoons of the blackened seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the Mafaldine noodles (or pasta of your choice) according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to rest. Once rested, slice the chicken into thin strips.

Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.

Step 6: Add the Cream and Parmesan

Pour in the heavy whipping cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, continuing to cook and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the Alfredo sauce. Add the sliced blackened chicken on top of the pasta and gently stir to combine.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Pair with garlic bread or Texas toast for extra indulgence!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Cook the Chicken Properly: To ensure juicy chicken, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to make sure it reaches 165°F.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, give it enough space in the pan so it sears evenly on all sides.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it a bit longer to thicken.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic will add a bolder, more aromatic flavor to the sauce compared to garlic powder.
• Make It Spicy: If you want more spice, feel free to increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

How to Serve

Serve this Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo with some delicious garlic bread, Texas toast, or garlic knots to soak up the rich, creamy sauce. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta and add freshness to the meal. If you’re serving guests, a glass of white wine (like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc) pairs beautifully with the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but the cream sauce may separate slightly when reheated. To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk or cream to help bring the sauce back to life.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little cream or milk and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy again.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you like, such as fettuccine, linguine, or penne.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?

You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

3. Can I use store-bought blackened seasoning?

Yes, you can use pre-made blackened seasoning if you prefer, but making your own gives the dish more control over the flavor.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used as an alternative to chicken breasts for a juicier and more flavorful result.

5. Is there a way to lighten this dish up?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and light butter to reduce some of the richness while still keeping the dish creamy.

6. Can I use a different cheese?

Parmesan cheese is key for the sauce, but you can mix in other cheeses like Romano or Pecorino for a different flavor.

7. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, skip the chicken and add some sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach in place of the chicken.

8. Can I prep this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just store everything separately and combine before serving.

9. How can I add more flavor to the pasta?

Adding a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil to the pasta before combining it with the sauce will enhance the flavor.

10. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers, but the cream sauce may change texture. Reheat with a bit of cream to restore its smoothness.

Conclusion

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is the ultimate combination of creamy pasta, smoky chicken, and a touch of spice. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household, offering rich, bold flavors and a comforting meal all in one. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed hit that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

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