Are you ready to indulge in a comforting, rich, and creamy dish? Look no further than Blackened Chicken Alfredo, a flavorful fusion of juicy chicken and a homemade alfredo sauce that’s lighter but just as rich as traditional versions. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian dishes or love bold Cajun-inspired flavors, this recipe is a must-try for you!
Introduction to Blackened Chicken Alfredo
Blackened Chicken Alfredo combines the best of both worlds—rich Italian pasta and the smoky heat of Cajun-style blackened chicken. This easy recipe offers a lower-fat version of the beloved alfredo sauce, which is creamy without being too heavy. The spicy blackened seasoning gives the chicken an irresistible flavor that pairs beautifully with the fettuccine noodles. Plus, it’s a versatile dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.
Alfredo pasta dishes have been around for decades, originating from Italy and known for their luxurious creamy sauce. The addition of blackened chicken brings a modern twist to the classic alfredo by infusing bold spices and smoky notes, making it a deliciously unique comfort food. This Blackened Chicken Alfredo recipe is also a great way to introduce Italian cuisine lovers to Southern-inspired spices.
Ingredients for Blackened Chicken Alfredo
To make this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb. chicken breast, raw
- 8 oz. fettuccine noodles (we recommend De Cecco for best results)
- 2 Tbsp. butter
- ½ Tbsp. minced garlic
- 2 wedges of light Laughing Cow cheese
- 1 ⅓ cups whole milk
- 2 oz. cream cheese (room temperature works best)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 56g)
- Fresh cracked black pepper (to taste)
Blackened Seasoning:
- 1 Tbsp. smoked paprika
- 1 Tbsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- ¼ to 1 tsp. cayenne pepper (adjust to your preferred spice level)
Feel free to substitute light cream cheese for a lower-fat version or use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-sensitive option.
How to Make Blackened Chicken Alfredo – Step by Step
Here’s how you can prepare the perfect Blackened Chicken Alfredo:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Mix the blackening seasonings (paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne) in a deep mixing bowl.
- Slice the chicken breast into strips and toss the chicken in the seasoning mix until fully coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
You can cook the chicken in various ways:
- Pan Sear: Heat a large skillet with nonstick spray. Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the seasoned chicken for 20-25 minutes, ensuring the center is no longer pink.
- BBQ: Grill the chicken over medium heat for 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F and cook the chicken for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Follow the instructions on your pasta package. We recommend fettuccine, but you can also try penne or spaghetti for a twist.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter, then add minced garlic.
- Lower the heat and mash the Laughing Cow cheese until it begins to melt.
- Add the milk and cubed cream cheese, mashing and stirring until the sauce becomes smooth.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and black pepper, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Combine the cooked pasta and blackened chicken into the sauce, ensuring every bite is well-coated.
Pro tip: Cut the fettuccine noodles in half for easier serving.
Helpful Tips for Blackened Chicken Alfredo
- Fresh is Best: Always use fresh garlic and Parmesan for the most flavorful sauce.
- Control the Spice: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
- Meal Prep Friendly: You can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it for later to save time on busy weeknights.
Cooking Tips for the Best Blackened Chicken Alfredo
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: For perfectly seared chicken, use a cast iron skillet for an even blackened crust.
- Room Temperature Dairy: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother sauce.
- Pasta Water Trick: Save a cup of pasta water and add it to the sauce if you want to thin it out slightly.
Serving Suggestions for Blackened Chicken Alfredo
Blackened Chicken Alfredo is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a few simple sides:
- A crisp Caesar salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic bread or focaccia for dipping in the rich sauce.
- Pair with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy flavors.
Nutritional Information
This recipe offers a lighter take on Alfredo, keeping the calorie count manageable without sacrificing flavor.
Per serving:
- Calories: 436 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 40g
- Protein: 28g
For those tracking macros, this dish offers a balanced mix of nutrients, making it perfect for a post-workout meal.
Storage and Leftovers for Blackened Chicken Alfredo
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk to rehydrate the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken dry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Blackened Chicken Alfredo
1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan cream cheese.
2. What pasta works best with this dish?
Fettuccine is traditional, but you can use penne, spaghetti, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
3. How spicy is the blackened chicken?
You can adjust the spice by controlling the amount of cayenne pepper. Start with ¼ tsp for mild heat.
4. Can I freeze Blackened Chicken Alfredo?
Yes, you can freeze it! Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Related Recipes for Blackened Chicken Lovers
For more delicious meals like this one, check out these related recipes from Optimal Recipes:
- Cajun Spiced Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce
Conclusion
Blackened Chicken Alfredo is a must-try for any pasta lover seeking bold flavors with a creamy twist. It’s an easy, hearty, and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear your feedback or see your personal variations on this delicious dish. Enjoy your cooking!
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Blackened Chicken Alfredo Recipe – Creamy & Flavorful Meal
Description
Are you ready to indulge in a comforting, rich, and creamy dish? Look no further than Blackened Chicken Alfredo, a flavorful fusion of juicy chicken and a homemade alfredo sauce that’s lighter but just as rich as traditional versions. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian dishes or love bold Cajun-inspired flavors, this recipe is a must-try for you!
Ingredients
- 1 lb. chicken breast, raw
- 8 oz. fettuccine noodles (we recommend De Cecco for best results)
- 2 Tbsp. butter
- ½ Tbsp. minced garlic
- 2 wedges of light Laughing Cow cheese
- 1 ⅓ cups whole milk
- 2 oz. cream cheese (room temperature works best)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 56g)
- Fresh cracked black pepper (to taste)
Blackened Seasoning:
- 1 Tbsp. smoked paprika
- 1 Tbsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- ¼ to 1 tsp. cayenne pepper (adjust to your preferred spice level)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Mix the blackening seasonings (paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne) in a deep mixing bowl.
- Slice the chicken breast into strips and toss the chicken in the seasoning mix until fully coated.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
You can cook the chicken in various ways:
- Pan Sear: Heat a large skillet with nonstick spray. Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the seasoned chicken for 20-25 minutes, ensuring the center is no longer pink.
- BBQ: Grill the chicken over medium heat for 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F and cook the chicken for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Follow the instructions on your pasta package. We recommend fettuccine, but you can also try penne or spaghetti for a twist.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In a pan over medium heat, melt the butter, then add minced garlic.
- Lower the heat and mash the Laughing Cow cheese until it begins to melt.
- Add the milk and cubed cream cheese, mashing and stirring until the sauce becomes smooth.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and black pepper, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Combine the cooked pasta and blackened chicken into the sauce, ensuring every bite is well-coated.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Fresh is Best: Always use fresh garlic and Parmesan for the most flavorful sauce.
- Control the Spice: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
- Meal Prep Friendly: You can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it for later to save time on busy weeknights.
