This Blackened Chicken Pasta Alfredo is a creamy and tasty dish that combines tender chicken with rich Alfredo sauce. The blackened spices add a nice kick that’s hard to resist!
I love the way the flavors mix together, and it’s super comforting. Plus, it’s great for busy nights since it comes together in no time. You’ll want a second helping, trust me! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are best for quick cooking. You could use thighs for more flavor or even shrimp if you’re looking for a seafood twist!
Blackened Seasoning: The mix of spices really makes this dish. If you don’t have them all, a store-bought blackening spice works well too. You can make it milder by reducing the cayenne pepper.
Pasta: Fettuccine or tagliatelle are great choices for this dish, but feel free to use any pasta you like. Penne or rigatoni can also work, just adjust the cooking time based on the type.
Heavy Cream and Milk: The combination gives a creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option, just remember it might change the flavor.
How Do I Achieve Perfect Blackened Chicken?
Cooking the chicken to perfection with that deep, blackened crust is crucial. Here’s the trick:
- First, ensure the chicken breasts are dry. This helps the seasoning to stick and caramelize.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding the chicken. A hot pan creates that blackened crust.
- Cook each side for 5-7 minutes without moving it around too much. This allows it to sear properly.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking. This keeps it juicy and flavorful!
This method guarantees you’ll get a delicious outer crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Blackened Chicken Pasta Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking chicken)
- 1 tbsp blackened seasoning (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper)
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 8 oz fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for color and slight acidity)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the chicken and sauce while the pasta is cooking for about 8-10 minutes. Quick and absolutely tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick better. Rub the blackened seasoning generously over both sides of the chicken. This will give it a lovely, spicy flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and have that nice blackened look. When done, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
3. Cook the Pasta:
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or tagliatelle and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet (to keep the flavors), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant but not brown. Then, carefully pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring gently as it warms up to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. If you choose to add diced tomatoes, toss them in now and let them warm through.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Take the drained pasta and add it directly to the Alfredo sauce, tossing until every strand is well-coated with that creamy goodness.
7. Serve Your Dish:
Now it’s time to plate! Serve the creamy pasta onto dishes and top with those juicy strips of blackened chicken. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if you like.
8. Enjoy!
Serve immediately while it’s hot, and get ready to dig into this mouthwatering Blackened Chicken Pasta Alfredo!
Can I Use Store-Bought Blackened Seasoning?
Absolutely! Store-bought blackened seasoning can save you time. Just ensure it suits your taste preference, as some blends can be spicier than others.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream for a lighter version. Just note that the texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
What Can I Serve with Blackened Chicken Pasta Alfredo?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. A side of roasted vegetables can also complement the meal beautifully!
