This Blackened Chicken Pasta Alfredo is a creamy and comforting dish. With juicy, spiced chicken and rich, cheesy sauce over pasta, it’s a total winner for dinner!
I love how simple it is to make this meal! Just cook the chicken, whip up the Alfredo sauce, and mix it all together—easy peasy! Plus, your friends will think you’re a kitchen pro! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe. If you’re looking for a different option, try using chicken thighs for a juicier bite or even shrimp for a seafood twist!
Spices: The blackening spice mix makes the chicken pop! If you don’t have cayenne pepper, smoked paprika works as a milder alternative. Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste!
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine is classic, but you can use any pasta! Penne or even gluten-free options like chickpea pasta would work great too.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the cream gives that rich flavor we love!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken so it’s juicy and not dried out is key! First, let it come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before seasoning. This helps it cook evenly.
- Heat your skillet well to get that perfect sear. A hot pan gives the chicken a nice crust.
- Cook the chicken evenly on both sides—about 5-6 minutes per side works well. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
Enjoy cooking your Blackened Chicken Pasta Alfredo!
How to Make Blackened Chicken Pasta Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Blackened Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Blackened Chicken Pasta Alfredo takes about 30 minutes to prepare—from seasoning the chicken to plating the dish. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a little weekend indulgence!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Blackening Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This spice mix is what gives the chicken its wonderful flavor!
2. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. Next, rub both sides of the chicken evenly with the blackening spice mix to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
3. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
4. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until the exterior is nicely blackened and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
5. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet (to keep all those delicious flavors), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring often until it starts to simmer.
6. Add Cheese:
Slowly whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Allow it to thicken slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, and toss to coat it well in the Alfredo sauce. Make sure every strand of pasta is enveloped in that creamy goodness!
8. Assemble the Dish:
Plate the sauced pasta beautifully on each dish, then top with the sliced blackened chicken. This is where it gets visually stunning!
9. Garnish and Serve:
For the final touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving. Enjoy your meal and impress your family and friends with this savory delight!
Enjoy your creamy, spicy Blackened Chicken Pasta Alfredo!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. You can also use a plant-based cream if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli can enhance both the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Just toss them into the skillet along with the chicken or mix them in with the pasta!
