Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Sharing is caring!

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with creamy, garlicky Alfredo sauce, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. This easy-to-make recipe features juicy, blackened chicken paired with mafaldine pasta, creating a perfect blend of spiciness and creamy goodness in every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is a 30-minute culinary masterpiece.

Print

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Pasta:

• Mafaldine noodles (or fettuccini/linguini) – Their broad, ridged shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy Alfredo sauce, but feel free to use your favorite pasta.

For the Chicken:

• Chicken breasts – Pounded to an even thickness for quicker, even cooking.
• Olive oil – To cook the chicken and achieve a crispy, blackened exterior.
• Blackened seasoning – A key ingredient that brings the Cajun spice. Make your own or use a store-bought blend.
• Butter – Adds richness to both the chicken and the sauce.
• Garlic – Provides a savory base flavor in both the chicken and Alfredo sauce.

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• Heavy whipping cream – The base for the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Shredded parmesan cheese – For the perfect, rich, cheesy finish.
• Blackened seasoning – To bring the Cajun spice into the sauce.

Optional:

• Garlic bread, Texas toast, or garlic knots – To serve on the side and complete the meal.

Homemade Blackened Seasoning

• 2 tbsp smoked paprika (regular paprika works too)
• 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried oregano

Tip: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper for your desired spice level.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Pound the chicken breasts to an even 1/4-inch thickness.
• Rub olive oil over the chicken and season generously with the blackened seasoning, about 2-3 tablespoons.
• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
• Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until the underside has a dark amber coloring.
• Flip the chicken only once and reduce the heat to low.
• Add 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 teaspoons of minced garlic to the skillet, allowing the garlic butter to melt into the chicken as it finishes cooking, about 5-6 minutes (until the internal temperature reaches 165°F).
• Remove the chicken and cover with tented foil to rest before slicing.

2. Make the Alfredo Sauce:

• In the same skillet over medium heat, add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter and melt.
• Add the remaining minced garlic (4-6 cloves) and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
• Stir in the heavy cream and 2-3 teaspoons of blackened seasoning.
• Bring the mixture to a low boil, then reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes to allow it to thicken.

3. Cook the Pasta:

• While the sauce is simmering, cook the mafaldine noodles to al dente according to package instructions.
• Reserve 1/3 cup of pasta water before draining the noodles.

4. Combine the Sauce and Pasta:

• Add the parmesan cheese to the Alfredo sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more blackened seasoning or salt as needed.
• Pour in the reserved pasta water and stir to thin the sauce slightly.
• Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the sauce.

5. Serve:

• Slice the blackened chicken and place on top of the creamy Alfredo pasta.
• For an extra burst of Cajun flavor, sprinkle additional blackened seasoning over the top before serving.
• Optionally, serve with garlic bread, Texas toast, or garlic knots.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bold Flavors: The blackened Cajun chicken and creamy Alfredo sauce are a match made in heaven, balancing heat and richness.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less cayenne pepper or blackened seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to round out the meal.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy Alfredo sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes! Chicken thighs will provide a juicier, more flavorful alternative to breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While best enjoyed fresh, you can make the chicken and Alfredo sauce ahead of time. Store separately in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat before serving.

Is this recipe spicy? The blackened seasoning brings a mild to moderate heat. Adjust the cayenne pepper amount if you prefer a milder or spicier dish.

Final Thoughts

Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a perfect fusion of Cajun flavors and Italian comfort. The creamy Alfredo sauce, combined with perfectly blackened chicken, creates an unforgettable meal that’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or planning a dinner for guests, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy!