Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Succulent, juicy chicken breasts are blackened to perfection and paired with cajun-seasoned garlicky luscious alfredo sauce. This Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is an easy 30-minute meal that brings bold flavors to your table, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The creamy sauce combined with the spice of cajun seasoning creates a dish that is both comforting and exciting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The blackened seasoning adds a delicious kick, elevating the classic Alfredo sauce to a new level.
• Versatile: Serve it with different types of noodles or pair it with garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish appeals to all ages.
• Comfort Food: Rich and creamy, it’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, having the right tools in your kitchen will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet: A good-quality skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for mixing seasonings and preparing the chicken before cooking.
• Pot for boiling noodles: A pot with a large capacity allows you to cook noodles effectively without overcrowding.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

• 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
• Salt and pepper to taste

Seasoning Mix

• 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

Pound chicken to 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 and cook chicken for 3–4 minutes until it has a dark amber coloring on one side. Flip just once.

Step 3: Add Garlic Butter

Reduce heat to low. Add 2 tablespoons of butter into the skillet along with 2 teaspoons of minced garlic. Let the garlic butter melt into the chicken while it finishes cooking for another 5–6 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 4: Rest the Chicken

Remove chicken from the 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 and allow it to melt. Add in the rest of minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 6: Combine Cream and Seasoning

Stir in heavy cream along with 2–3 teaspoons of blackened seasoning. Bring this mixture to a low boil while simmering for about 5 minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Cook Noodles

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

Step 8: Finish Sauce

Add shredded parmesan cheese into alfredo sauce and stir until melted. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed based on preference.

Step 9: Combine Everything

Pour reserved pasta water into alfredo sauce and stir well. Add cooked noodles directly into the sauce, mix thoroughly, then top with sliced chicken. Optionally add a sprinkle of cajun seasoning on top before serving.

How to Serve Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Serving Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a delightful experience that combines rich flavors and textures. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic choice, Caesar salad adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Mixed Greens: Tossed with a light vinaigrette, mixed greens offer a refreshing balance to the richness of the Alfredo.

Serve with Vegetables

• Sautéed Broccoli: Lightly sautéed broccoli adds color and nutrition to your plate.
• Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears provide a flavorful and elegant side option.

Top with Additional Garnishes

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: For cheese lovers, extra parmesan enhances the dish’s cheesy goodness.

How to Perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Perfecting Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo involves attention to detail and a few handy tips. These suggestions will help you create an exquisite meal every time.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you coat the chicken evenly with blackened seasoning for full flavor.
• Even cooking: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking results.
• Proper sauce simmering: Allow the sauce to simmer long enough for it to thicken but avoid boiling it too hard.
• Pasta timing: Cook the noodles just until al dente to keep them firm and prevent them from becoming mushy in the sauce.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasonings throughout cooking for a balanced flavor profile that suits your palate.

Best Side Dishes for Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Complementing your Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic make for a perfect dipper in any leftover alfredo sauce.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn offers sweetness that pairs beautifully with spicy flavors.
3. Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the pasta.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and flavor while also being nutritious.
5. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a hearty side that can be topped with butter and herbs.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers refreshing sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.

• Not pounding the chicken: Failing to pound the chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure you pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness of 1/4 inch for perfect results.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken liberally will result in bland flavors. Use a good amount of blackened seasoning on both sides for that bold taste.
• Overcooking the sauce: Cooking the alfredo sauce too long can cause it to separate or become too thick. Keep an eye on it and simmer just until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save pasta water means missing out on an important ingredient for adjusting sauce consistency. Always save at least 1/3 cup of pasta water before draining.
• Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For the best texture, opt for freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water, stirring until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo healthier?

You can use whole-grain noodles and reduce the amount of heavy cream by substituting half with low-fat milk or Greek yogurt.

Can I use vegetables in my Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach not only enhances flavor but also boosts nutrition.

What sides pair well with Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

Consider serving with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How can I customize the spice level in Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

Adjust the cayenne pepper amount based on your preference; use less for milder flavors or increase for extra heat.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the alfredo sauce ahead and refrigerate it. Just reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a delightful meal that’s both quick and packed with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, whether by adding vegetables or adjusting spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious dinner that’s sure to impress!