Name: Blackened Chicken Alfredo Recipe – Creamy & Flavorful Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp salt (or to taste); ¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste); 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish); 12 oz fettuccine pasta

Jump to Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and indulgent, Blackened Chicken Alfredo is a meal that hits the spot every time. This creamy pasta is elevated by the bold, smoky flavors of blackened chicken, bringing an exciting twist to the classic Alfredo sauce. The blackened seasoning creates a perfect crispy exterior on the chicken, while the creamy Alfredo sauce, rich with Parmesan and garlic, provides a luxurious contrast. Served over your favorite pasta, this dish is a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner at home or looking to impress guests with a restaurant-quality dish, Blackened Chicken Alfredo is a perfect choice. It’s rich, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. So grab your skillet and pasta, and let’s dive into this creamy, spicy, and absolutely irresistible recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold Flavor

The blackened chicken adds an irresistible smoky, spicy crust that perfectly complements the creamy Alfredo sauce, making each bite a flavor explosion.

2. Quick and Easy

Despite its rich, complex flavors, this dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle.

3. Creamy and Comforting

The Alfredo sauce is decadently creamy and full of flavor, creating a rich base that coats the pasta beautifully. It’s the ultimate comfort food.

4. Customizable

You can easily adjust the spiciness of the blackened chicken or add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to enhance the dish.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish holds up well as leftovers, making it ideal for meal prepping. It’s just as delicious the next day, and the flavors continue to develop.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts
Blackened seasoning
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Heavy cream
Garlic
Butter
Parmesan cheese
Fettuccine pasta (or your preferred pasta)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Variations

Spicy Kick: If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the blackened seasoning mix.
Vegetable Add-ins: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers to the Alfredo sauce for extra flavor and color.
Chicken Substitute: You can use shrimp or even thinly sliced steak as a protein substitute for a different twist on this classic dish.
Dairy-Free: To make this dish dairy-free, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free Parmesan cheese.
Lemon Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the Alfredo sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Blackened Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season the chicken generously with blackened seasoning on both sides. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot, cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice blackened crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest before slicing it into strips.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is cooked al dente, drain it, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water to use later if needed.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Serve

Divide the creamy pasta among plates and top with the blackened chicken strips. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: The key to a juicy chicken breast is not overcooking it. Be sure to keep an eye on the chicken while cooking, and use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
Make It Even Creamier: If you want an extra creamy Alfredo sauce, add a bit of cream cheese along with the heavy cream.
Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder blackened chicken, reduce the amount of blackened seasoning or omit any cayenne pepper or paprika.
Perfect Pasta: Don’t overcook your pasta! It should be al dente for the best texture in the finished dish.
Use Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor, grate your Parmesan cheese fresh instead of using pre-grated cheese.

How to Serve

Serve your Blackened Chicken Alfredo with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish. A chilled glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the creamy flavors of the Alfredo sauce. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top of the dish or even add a little crushed red pepper for a spicy kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Blackened Chicken Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a splash of cream or milk when reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze the Blackened Chicken Alfredo for up to 1 month. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of cream or pasta water to loosen up the sauce. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, to ensure it’s heated evenly.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. For a lighter version, use a combination of milk and cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

2. Can I make the blackened chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the chicken before serving.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you like! Fettuccine is traditional, but penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work well too.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning or drizzle some hot sauce over the dish before serving.

5. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

While homemade Alfredo sauce is best, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce if you’re short on time. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste.

6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using a dairy-free cream and cheese alternative. Cashew cream and dairy-free Parmesan are great options.

7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) on a meat thermometer.

8. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the regular pasta for a gluten-free variety, and ensure the blackened seasoning is gluten-free.

9. Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They’re juicy and flavorful, and they’ll absorb the blackened seasoning just as well as chicken breasts.

10. How do I prevent the pasta from being dry?

To prevent dry pasta, always reserve some pasta water before draining. Adding a splash of that reserved water to the sauce will help loosen it up and keep the pasta coated.

Conclusion

Blackened Chicken Alfredo is a perfect combination of bold, smoky chicken and creamy, comforting pasta. The blackened chicken adds a flavorful punch to the rich Alfredo sauce, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and exciting. Quick to make, customizable, and delicious, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this creamy and flavorful recipe will quickly become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.