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 can elevate any dinner occasion or impress your guests during a gathering. The combination of rich flavors and creamy textures makes Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo a standout dish that you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The spices in the blackened seasoning create a robust flavor profile that elevates the creamy alfredo sauce.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with garlic bread, Texas toast, or garlic knots for an unforgettable meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, everyone will love this delicious dish.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust the spice levels or add your favorite vegetables to make it uniquely yours.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Tongs
• Mixing bowl
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect blackened crust on the chicken.
• Tongs: Use tongs for easily flipping the chicken without piercing it, keeping all those delicious juices inside.
• Mixing Bowl: This is essential for combining ingredients like the blackened seasoning before applying it to your chicken.

Ingredients

To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

For the Noodles

• 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

For Seasoning

• 4 tablespoons blackened seasoning, divided
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Flavoring (optional)

• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika (regular paprika works too)
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoon 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: 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 coloring on one side.

Step 3: Finish Cooking

Flip just once, reduce heat to low. Add 2 tablespoons of butter into the skillet along with 2 teaspoons of minced garlic. Allow everything to cook together for about 5-6 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Rest Before Slicing

Remove chicken from the skillet and place on a plate covered with tented foil to rest before slicing.

Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet over medium heat, add in remaining butter. Once melted, add in remaining minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6: Stir in Cream

Pour in heavy cream along with 2-3 teaspoons of blackened seasoning. Bring to a low boil over simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Cook the Noodles

While sauce simmers, cook your noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/3 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 8: Combine Sauce and Noodles

Add parmesan cheese into alfredo sauce and stir until melted. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before incorporating reserved pasta water into the sauce.

Step 9: Serve It Up

Add cooked noodles into alfredo sauce, mixing well to combine. Top with sliced chicken and sprinkle additional cajun seasoning before serving if desired. Enjoy your delicious Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo!

How to Serve Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Serving Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making the dining experience enjoyable. Here are some delicious ways to serve this creamy dish that will impress your guests.

With Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly. Toast slices of bread with garlic butter for a crispy side.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the pasta over a bed of fresh greens like spinach or arugula. This adds a refreshing crunch to each bite.

Paired with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition to the plate, balancing the meal nicely.

With a Side Salad

• A simple side salad dressed in vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the Alfredo sauce and provide a light contrast.

Accompanied by Texas Toast

• Thick slices of Texas toast make for a hearty side that is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top your dish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for an aromatic touch and extra flavor.

How to Perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Achieving the ultimate Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh garlic and high-quality chicken for the best flavor in your alfredo sauce.
• Monitor Cooking Times – Keep an eye on the chicken while cooking to achieve that perfect blackened finish without overcooking.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and cajun seasoning according to your preference for spiciness.
• Reserve Pasta Water – Always reserve some pasta water before draining; it helps thicken the sauce and makes it creamier.
• Let Chicken Rest – Allowing your chicken to rest after cooking keeps it juicy and tender when sliced.
• Experiment with Noodles – While mafaldine is great, feel free to try fettuccini or linguini based on your texture preference.

Best Side Dishes for Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Complementing your Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo with side dishes can elevate the meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs well.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
3. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan cheese, croutons, and dressing provides a crunchy contrast.
4. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a burst of flavor; grill or boil it for an easy addition.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These can be seasoned and roasted until crispy, providing an earthy taste alongside the rich pasta.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness balances out the spicy cajun flavors beautifully.
7. Sautéed Green Beans – Quickly sautéed green beans add freshness and crunch to round out your meal.
8. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad offers a refreshing end to this indulgent dish, cleansing the palate wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, small errors can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not using enough blackened seasoning can lead to bland chicken. Make sure to rub it generously on both sides of the chicken breasts.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water means you miss out on a great way to adjust the sauce’s consistency. Always reserve a third cup before draining.
• Rushing the sauce: Allowing the alfredo sauce to simmer for too short a time can result in a runny texture. Take your time to let it thicken properly.
• Neglecting to taste: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning in the sauce may leave it flat. Always sample your dish before serving and add more spices if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of broth or cream and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo.

Can I use other types of noodles for Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

You can substitute mafaldine with fettuccini, linguini, or any pasta you prefer. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make a lighter version of Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, consider using whole wheat pasta and reducing the amount of butter or cream.

What is blackened seasoning made of?

Blackened seasoning typically includes spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, thyme, and oregano. You can adjust these spices based on your flavor preferences.

Can I prepare Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Just combine everything right before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a deliciously rich dish that combines succulent chicken with creamy alfredo sauce and bold flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners with friends and family. Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition!