The aroma of sizzling spices fills the air as you step into your kitchen, welcoming you to a delightful culinary adventure. Picture tender pieces of blackened chicken nestled among perfectly cooked pasta, coated in a creamy sauce that dances on your taste buds like it’s auditioning for a Broadway show.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use other proteins in Blackened Chicken Pasta?
- What should I serve with Blackened Chicken Pasta?
- How can I make Blackened Chicken Pasta spicier?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! Remember those nights when you gathered around the table with friends, laughter spilling over like the sauce on your plate? That’s the magic of blackened chicken pasta—perfect for cozy weeknights or impressing guests at your next dinner party.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare without sacrificing flavor; you’ll feel like a culinary genius.
- The harmonious blend of spices creates an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more.
- With its appealing colors and aromas, this dish is sure to be a showstopper at dinner parties.
- Versatility shines here; serve it warm or chilled, making it ideal for any occasion.
I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. Their delighted faces said it all—they couldn’t get enough of the bold flavors!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts depending on how hungry everyone is.
- Cajun Seasoning: Choose a blend that packs some heat but isn’t overwhelming.
- Pasta: Any type works well; penne or fettuccine are excellent choices.
- Heavy Cream: This adds richness; opt for full-fat for the best texture.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves give the best flavor; don’t skimp on this!
- Olive Oil: For cooking the chicken and adding depth to your dish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated finely for serving; it enhances every bite.
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish; adds a pop of color and freshness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning both sides of your chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning. Don’t hold back; we want flavor! Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the Chicken: Add seasoned chicken breasts to the hot skillet and cook until they reach a glorious golden-brown color—about 6-7 minutes per side. The smell will have you dancing in your kitchen!
Cook the Pasta: While your chicken sizzles away, boil salted water in another pot and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Create the Sauce: In the same skillet used for chicken (flavor alert!), add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and stir continuously until heated through.
Toss Everything Together: Slice your seared chicken into strips and add it alongside cooked pasta into the creamy sauce. Toss gently until everything is coated in that luscious sauce.
Serve It Up!: Plate your masterpiece and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over each serving alongside fresh parsley for garnish. Enjoy every bite while basking in your cooking glory!
This blackened chicken pasta recipe is not just about taste—it’s about creating memories around the dinner table! Get ready to impress everyone with this delightful dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort.
You Must Know
- Blackened Chicken Pasta is not just delicious; it’s a feast for the senses.
- The smoky aroma fills your kitchen, while the rich colors of the dish make it irresistible.
- Plus, it’s easy to adjust based on what you have at home, making it truly versatile.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to seal in juices, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This way, everything finishes simultaneously for a delightful meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or add a dash of hot sauce for some extra kick. Personalize it to suit your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to keep that creamy texture intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always season your pasta water well; it makes a huge difference in flavor.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain moisture.
- For a smokier taste, try using smoked paprika instead of regular.
My friends still rave about that time I made this dish for a dinner party and everyone went back for seconds—definitely a sign of success!
FAQ
Can I use other proteins in Blackened Chicken Pasta?
Yes, shrimp or tofu are great alternatives if you’re looking for variety.
What should I serve with Blackened Chicken Pasta?
A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this delightful dish.
How can I make Blackened Chicken Pasta spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to spice things up according to your preference.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Blackened Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Blackened Chicken Pasta is a creamy, spicy dish that combines tender chicken with flavorful pasta, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Cajun seasoning
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Meanwhile, boil salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and stir until heated through.
- Slice cooked chicken and toss it with the pasta in the creamy sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider using smoked paprika in place of regular paprika.
- Customize your dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Adjust the spiciness by incorporating cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
