Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Succulent and juicy, Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a delightful dish that combines perfectly seasoned chicken with a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe is not just easy to prepare but is also perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any special occasion. With its bold flavors and comforting textures, it stands out as a favorite among many!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The blackened seasoning adds a deliciously spicy kick to the tender chicken, enhancing the alfredo sauce.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap out the pasta type or adjust the spices to tailor this dish to your liking.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a hearty meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers can easily be stored and reheated for future meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: This is crucial for achieving that perfect blackening on the chicken while allowing for easy sauce preparation.
• Pot: Used to boil your noodles, ensuring they reach the perfect al dente texture.
• Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken without losing its juices.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements, which is key in cooking.

Ingredients

For this mouthwatering Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, 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 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 (recipe below)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread, Texas toast, or garlic knots

For the 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
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

How to Make Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
2. Rub them with olive oil and season liberally on both sides with 2-3 tablespoons of blackened seasoning.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes until dark amber on one side.
3. Flip the chicken only once; reduce heat to low.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 teaspoons of minced garlic into the skillet. Allow it to melt into the chicken as it finishes cooking for about 5-6 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 3: Rest the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from skillet and place it on a plate covered loosely with foil to rest.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

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

Step 5: Cook Noodles

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

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Stir parmesan cheese into alfredo sauce until melted; taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
2. Incorporate reserved pasta water into sauce; mix well before adding cooked noodles.
3. Top with sliced chicken and sprinkle additional cajun seasoning before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously rich Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo!

How to Serve Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread provides a crunchy, buttery contrast to the creamy pasta, making every bite satisfying.

On a Bed of Fresh Greens

• Serve the chicken and alfredo over a bed of fresh arugula or spinach for a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the dish.

With a Sprinkle of Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your plate with chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A crisp side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness and brightness to your meal.

With Texas Toast or Garlic Knots

• These buttery options are perfect for sopping up the delicious alfredo sauce and add an extra touch of comfort.

How to Perfect Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

To ensure your Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo turns out spectacularly, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality parmesan will elevate the flavors significantly.
• Control Heat Levels: Adjust the heat while cooking chicken to avoid burning the seasoning; it should be nicely charred but not bitter.
• Pasta Water Magic: Reserve pasta water; this starchy liquid helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasoning if necessary for a well-balanced flavor.
• Let Chicken Rest: Allow the cooked chicken to rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy and tender.

Best Side Dishes for Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Pairing side dishes with Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the creamy pasta beautifully with its tangy dressing.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus adds earthy notes and a satisfying crunch to your plate.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob provides a burst of sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and brightness, offering a refreshing contrast to rich alfredo sauce.
6. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes provide an excellent vehicle for leftover alfredo sauce, making for a hearty side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo, avoid these common mistakes.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken properly will result in blandness. Be generous with the blackened seasoning for maximum flavor.
• Using low-quality pasta: Poor quality noodles can affect texture and taste. Opt for fresh or high-quality dried mafaldine or fettuccini for best results.
• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water means missing out on a creamy sauce. This starchy water helps bind the sauce and improve its consistency.
• Cooking garlic at high heat: Burning garlic can create a bitter taste in your dish. Sauté it over medium heat until fragrant for the best flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Timeframe*: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers*: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Freezing Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• • Timeframe*: Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal flavor.
• • Containers*: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes, you can substitute mafaldine with fettuccini or linguini, depending on your preference.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For extra heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning or add crushed red pepper flakes while cooking.

Can I make Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then combine everything before serving.

What is blackened seasoning?

Blackened seasoning is a blend of spices that typically includes paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and herbs. It adds great flavor and color!

How do I customize my Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor!

Final Thoughts

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a fantastic dish that combines rich flavors with creamy textures. It’s perfect for family dinners and can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love!