Chicken Alfredo is a beloved classic in the world of pasta dishes, and for a good reason. Its rich, creamy sauce paired with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta creates an indulgent meal that’s hard to resist. If you’re looking to elevate this classic dish, a blackened chicken Alfredo recipe might be exactly what you’re looking for. This recipe combines the traditional creamy goodness of chicken Alfredo with the bold and spicy flavors of blackened seasoning, creating a dish that is sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to making your own fettuccine Alfredo with blackened chicken that will have your friends and family asking for seconds.
Understanding Alfredo Sauce
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the star of the dish – Alfredo sauce. This creamy sauce is the heart of the dish, and getting it right is crucial. Alfredo sauce is traditionally made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, combined to create a rich and velvety sauce that beautifully coats the pasta.
The Secret to Perfect Alfredo Sauce
The key to a perfect Alfredo sauce is simplicity and balance. Use good quality ingredients and pay attention to the proportions to ensure a smooth and flavorful sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, as opposed to pre-grated varieties, will melt better and provide a superior taste.
Preparing the Chicken
Blackening the Chicken
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The addition of blackened chicken adds a flavorful twist to the classic chicken Alfredo. To blacken the chicken, you’ll need a mix of spices typically including paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and black pepper. Coating the chicken in these spices and searing it in a hot skillet creates a charred, smoky crust that’s packed with flavor.
Tips for Juicy Chicken
To ensure your chicken stays juicy and tender, avoid overcooking it. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing it. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
Ingredients for Chicken Alfredo
To make chicken Alfredo with blackened chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Blackened seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 pound of fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe
Now, let’s put it all together and create a creamy and delicious chicken Alfredo pasta with a spicy kick.
Step 1: Blacken the Chicken
Generously coat the chicken breasts with the blackened seasoning. Heat olive oil or butter in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, set the chicken aside and let it rest.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
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While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water for later.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the heavy cream and bring to a low simmer. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with some of the reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Slice the rested blackened chicken into strips. Plate the creamy fettuccine Alfredo and top with the sliced blackened chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Alfredo is a rich dish, so it pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal. A crisp Caesar salad or a side of garlic bread would also complement the creamy pasta nicely.
Tips for Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the pasta and chicken separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a saucepan with a splash of cream or milk to help the sauce come back together. Heat the chicken separately in a microwave or skillet until warmed through.
Conclusion
This blackened chicken Alfredo recipe is a fantastic way to spice up a classic dish. The combination of creamy Alfredo sauce and the bold flavor of blackened chicken creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With these simple steps and helpful tips, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.
Enjoy the rich flavors and the delightful contrast between the creamy pasta and the spicy chicken. Buon appetito!