Description
A perfect fusion of Cajun spices and creamy Alfredo sauce, this Blackened Chicken Alfredo recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Featuring tender, boldly seasoned chicken atop rich, flavorful pasta, this dish balances spice and creaminess beautifully. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Blackened Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Pinch of nutmeg
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- Water and salt (for boiling)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry and season generously with the blackening spices (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper).
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-5 minutes per side until a charred crust forms. Reduce the heat and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously. Bring to a gentle simmer, avoiding a boil.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, whisking to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
Combine and Serve:
- Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated. Plate the pasta, then top with sliced blackened chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or additional Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the cayenne pepper.
- For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan.
- Pair with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: Fusion (Cajun-Italian)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Sugar: 2-3 g
- Sodium: 300-400 mg
- Fat: 10-12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4-6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4-6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30 g
- Fiber: 3-4 g
- Protein: 12-15 g
- Cholesterol: 70-90 mg
Keywords: Blackened chicken, Alfredo pasta, Cajun recipes, creamy pasta, dinner ideas