Description
A creamy, flavorful twist on classic chicken Alfredo, this Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo features spicy, blackened chicken on top of rich, creamy pasta. Perfect for a comforting dinner with a kick!
Ingredients
Scale
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)
- 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 Serving (optional):
- Garlic bread, Texas toast, or garlic knots
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
Instructions
For the Blackened Chicken:
- Prepare the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the homemade blackened seasoning. Mix well.
- Season the chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then coat them evenly with 2 tablespoons of blackened seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Once cooked, remove from the pan and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- Cook the garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Add the heavy whipping cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream begins to thicken.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and remaining 2 tablespoons of blackened seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce cook for another 2-3 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
For the Pasta:
- Cook the noodles: While preparing the sauce, cook the mafaldine (or other pasta) according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
To Assemble:
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
- Serve: Slice the blackened chicken and arrange it on top of the pasta. Serve with optional garlic bread, Texas toast, or garlic knots on the side.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the level of spice in the blackened seasoning depending on your preference.
- You can substitute other types of pasta, such as fettuccini or linguini, if you prefer.
- For extra flavor, top with chopped parsley or more Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun/Italian Fusion