I love pasta, and I’ve tried many creamy alfredo dishes. But this 5-star blackened chicken alfredo recipe is the best. The tender chicken gets a spicy blackened crust from a mix of spices. It’s served over creamy alfredo sauce, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and blackening seasoning.
This dish is the ultimate comfort food. It’s sure to become a favorite in your family.
Key Takeaways
- Blackened chicken alfredo is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a Cajun-inspired blackened crust and a rich parmesan alfredo sauce.
- The recipe has a total cooking time of under an hour and involves pounding the chicken breasts to 1/2 inch thickness for quicker, more tender cooking.
- The blackening seasoning blend includes a variety of spices like paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper for a bold, zesty flavor.
- The alfredo sauce is made with heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese for a luxurious, velvety texture.
- Letting the chicken come to room temperature before cooking and using a hot skillet helps achieve that signature blackened crust.
Table of Contents
What is Blackened Chicken Alfredo?
Blackened alfredo is a tasty dish that mixes tender chicken with a spicy crust. The crust is made from Cajun spices like paprika, cayenne Pepper, and garlic powder. It’s served over creamy alfredo sauce and pasta, blending bold flavors.
The chicken gets charred outside from a hot skillet, staying juicy inside. The creamy alfredo sauce complements the chicken’s spicy taste, making it a satisfying meal.
This dish is perfect for any meal, thanks to its quick prep time. It’s great for weeknights or special events. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, but freezing is not recommended.
Flavor Profile and Ingredients
The dish’s flavor comes from a mix of spices on the chicken. Paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne Pepper give it a bold Cajun taste. The alfredo sauce, made with butter, cream, and Parmesan, adds to the flavor.
To make it, the chicken is pounded and seared in oil. The pasta is cooked and mixed with the sauce, thickened with pasta water.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breast or Thighs | 4 (serves 4) |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion Powder | 1 tsp |
| Dried Oregano | 1 tsp |
| Dried Thyme | 1 tsp |
| Cayenne Pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Smoked Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Fettuccine Pasta | 8 oz |
| Butter | 4 tbsp |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1 cup, grated |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Salt and Pepper | to taste |
| Nutmeg (optional) | 1/4 tsp |
This dish is a hit with its bold flavors and creamy pasta. It’s perfect for any meal, impressing everyone at the table.
Why This Blackened Chicken Alfredo Recipe Works
This blackened chicken alfredo recipe is a hit for good reasons. First, pounding the chicken breasts to 1/4-inch thickness makes them cook evenly. This way, you avoid dry outsides and raw centers. Then, a super hot skillet gives the chicken a crispy blackened crust.
The Cajun spice level in the seasoning can be adjusted to your liking. Adding this seasoning to the creamy alfredo sauce boosts the Cajun taste. Lastly, adding pasta water to the sauce makes it silky smooth.
These clever steps make this recipe a home version of a fancy restaurant dish. It’s a mix of spicy, savory, and rich flavors. It’s a comfort food that will wow anyone.
These clever steps make this recipe a home version of a fancy restaurant dish. It’s a mix of spicy, savory, and rich flavors. It’s a comfort food that will wow anyone.
Ingredients and Preparation
It would help if you had a few essential things to make this tasty blackened chicken alfredo. Start with tender chicken breasts you’ll flatten and season with a homemade Cajun blackening spice blend. Mix heavy cream, butter, garlic, and parmesan cheese for the creamy alfredo sauce.
To get the chicken’s blackened crust:
Cover everything in the creamy alfredo sauce.
Sear it in a hot skillet with butter or olive oil.
Place the spicy chicken on top of cooked fettuccine or penne pasta.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts | 1 lb. |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Sweet Onion | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic | 1.5 teaspoons |
| Low Sodium Chicken Broth | 1/2 – 3/4 cup |
| Heavy Cream | 1/2 cup |
| Grated Parmesan Cheese | 3-4 tablespoons |
| Baby Spinach | 3 ounces |
| Fettuccine or Penne Pasta | Your desired amount |
With the right ingredients and some prep, you’ll have a restaurant-quality blackened chicken alfredo dish.
blackened chicken alfredo
Blackened chicken alfredo combines bold Cajun flavors with creamy chicken alfredo. It has tender chicken coated in spicy blackening seasoning. This is served over fettuccine or penne pasta with a rich alfredo sauce.
The blackening seasoning adds a spicy crust to the chicken. It’s made from paprika, cayenne Pepper, and more. The alfredo sauce, with butter and Parmesan, complements the Cajun spices. This makes the dish creamy and comforting.
This blackened chicken alfredo recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special lunch meal. It’s a mix of classic comfort and Cajun flair that all will love.
“This blackened chicken alfredo is the perfect blend of spicy and creamy, with an absolutely irresistible depth of flavor.”
Why This Blackened Chicken Alfredo Recipe Works
- Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures quick, fool-proof cooking time.
- Using a screaming hot skillet creates that signature blackened crust.
- The Cajun spice level can be customized to your taste preferences.
- Infusing the homemade alfredo sauce with blackening seasoning amps up the Cajun notes.
- Using reserved pasta water to thin the sauce creates a luscious, velvety texture.
This blackened chicken alfredo recipe is a must-try for Cajun and chicken alfredo fans. Serve it with a salad or roasted veggies for a full meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Blackened Chicken
To get the perfect blackened chicken, follow a few essential steps. First, make sure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and quickly, giving you a great blackened crust.
When searing the chicken, use olive oil or butter. This creates the crispy, blackened exterior that’s so tasty. You can adjust the heat by changing the amount of cayenne and red pepper flakes in the seasoning.
Remember, parmesan cheese is critical. Grate it from a block using a Microplane. This perfectly melts the cheese into the alfredo sauce, creating a rich, creamy sauce that coats every bite.
“The key to perfect blackened chicken is all in the preparation and technique. Follow these pro tips, and you’ll be rewarded with a truly restaurant-quality dish from your kitchen.”
How to Make Blackened Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Making this tasty blackened chicken alfredo pasta is easy! First, pound the chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook fast and evenly. Then, sprinkle the chicken with spices like paprika, cayenne Pepper, cumin, thyme, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Heat a big skillet over high heat. Sear the chicken until it gets a blackened crust, about 2-3 minutes on each side. While the chicken cooks, make the creamy alfredo sauce. Use heavy cream, butter, Parmesan cheese, and a bit of nutmeg.
- Cook the fettuccine or pasta as the package says.
- After the chicken is done, cut it into strips and mix it with the alfredo sauce.
- Combine the cooked pasta, blackened chicken, and creamy alfredo sauce. Add some pasta water to thin the sauce.
- For more flavor, sprinkle blackening seasoning on top if you like.
This blackened chicken alfredo pasta is a hit for a quick weeknight dinner.
“The mix of blackened chicken and creamy alfredo sauce is amazing. It’s a favorite among many!”
Reheating and Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this tasty blackened chicken alfredo can be reheated and stored later. It’s essential to handle the pasta and sauce carefully. This keeps their texture and flavor just right.
Reheating Blackened Chicken Alfredo
The best way to reheat this dish is on the stovetop. Warm the pasta and sauce together in a covered pan over low heat. Stir occasionally until it’s hot. This method keeps the creamy sauce smooth.
You can also reheat it in the microwave. Just use short 1-minute bursts at 50% power, stirring in between. This gentle heating keeps the dish’s texture intact.
Storing Blackened Chicken Alfredo Leftovers
For the best results, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for later enjoyment.
When reheating frozen leftovers, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then, gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. This keeps the sauce creamy and prevents it from separating.
By following these tips, you can repeatedly enjoy blackened chicken alfredo. Just be gentle when reheating to keep the creamy texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
For a quicker start, use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken tenders for blackened chicken alfredo. This way, you get a restaurant-quality dish that’s homemade and budget-friendly. It’s a creamy, spicy pasta that will be a hit with your family and a go-to comfort food.
Shortcuts for Quick Prep
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for an instant shortcut.
- Start with pre-cooked chicken tenders or breast strips to save time.
This blackened chicken alfredo recipe is very flexible. You can take shortcuts to make it quicker without losing the restaurant-quality taste and texture.
“No matter which way you make it, this blackened chicken alfredo is restaurant quality yet totally homemade and budget-friendly. It’s sure to become a new comfort food favorite!”
This dish will impress if you prep the chicken from scratch or use a shortcut. It’s a creamy, spicy pasta that’s restaurant-quality but still budget-friendly for any day.
Nutrition Facts
This blackened chicken alfredo dish is a hearty, satisfying meal. But it’s vital to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Each serving has 952 calories, 50g of carbs, 41g of protein, and 66g of fat.
The bold Cajun flavors and creamy alfredo sauce make it a comfort food. Yet, the high calorie and macronutrient content means it should be consumed thoughtfully.
| Nutrition Info | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Total Calories | 952 | – |
| Total Fat | 66g | 85% |
| Saturated Fat | 40g | 200% |
| Cholesterol | 50mg | 17% |
| Sodium | 660mg | 28% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 50g | 18% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g | 7% |
| Total Sugars | 2g | – |
| Protein | 41g | 82% |
The nutritional profile of this blackened chicken alfredo recipe highlights its indulgent nature. It’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced and healthy diet. When portioning this meal, be mindful of the high calorie, fat, and sodium content to support your wellness goals.
This recipe can be made more nutritious with some simple adjustments, like using less butter or cream. This way, you can enjoy it without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
This 5-star blackened chicken alfredo is a must-try recipe. It’s easy for weeknights but impressive for guests. The tender chicken and creamy Cajun alfredo sauce make it unforgettable.
It’s quick to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for nights when you want something delicious fast.
Start with fresh chicken or use rotisserie for a shortcut. This dish tastes like a restaurant in your home. You can adjust the heat and choose your pasta or low-carb options.
Enjoying this dish reminds us that homemade meals can be simple and quick. With a few tips, you can make ordinary ingredients memorable.
So, indulge in the bold flavors of this 5-star blackened chicken alfredo. It’s a recipe you’ll love making again and again.
FAQ
What is blackened chicken alfredo?
Blackened chicken alfredo is a dish with tender chicken. It has a spicy crust made from Cajun spices. Then, it’s served over creamy alfredo sauce and pasta.
Why does this blackened chicken alfredo recipe work so well?
It works well because of a few key steps:
- The chicken is pounded thin even when cooking.
- A hot skillet creates the blackened crust.
- The alfredo sauce is seasoned with the same spices, enhancing the Cajun flavors.
What are the main ingredients needed for this blackened chicken alfredo?
You’ll need chicken breasts, pasta like fettuccine or penne, and heavy cream. Also, parmesan cheese, butter, garlic, and homemade Cajun blackening seasoning are essential.
How do you make blackened chicken alfredo?
Start by pounding the chicken breasts thin. Coat them in Cajun seasoning and sear in a hot skillet. Meanwhile, make the alfredo sauce by simmering heavy cream, butter, garlic, Parmesan, and blackening spices.
Once the pasta is cooked, toss it with the sauce. Slice the chicken and place it on top.
How do you reheat and store leftovers of blackened chicken alfredo?
To reheat, gently warm the pasta and sauce together on low heat. You can also use the microwave, but do it in short intervals at 50% power. Always reheat slowly to avoid sauce problems.