The aroma of blackened spices mingles with the creamy richness of sauce, promising an explosion of flavor in every bite. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around your fork while savoring the smoky goodness of tender chicken; it’s a culinary hug you won’t want to miss.
Growing up, my family would gather around the table for a hearty meal of blackened chicken pasta on special occasions. The laughter and love shared over this dish created memories that still warm my heart today.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy blackened chicken pasta is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor
- Its vibrant colors and aromas make it a feast for the eyes and nose
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it caters to everyone’s tastes with its customizable ingredients
- The creamy sauce brings everything together delectably well
I remember the first time I made this for my friends; their faces lit up with delight as they took their first bites.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on your crowd size.
- Cajun Spice Blend: A mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and more for that bold flavor kick.
- Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne): Choose your favorite type; cook until al dente for the best texture.
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness; opt for full-fat for a creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated enhances flavor; sprinkle generously on top before serving.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality oil for sautéing the chicken and adding a touch of richness.
- Fresh Spinach: Optional but highly recommended; adds color and nutrients to your dish.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic elevates the overall flavor profile significantly.
- Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the dish and balances out the richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop fresh spinach and mince garlic to save time during cooking.
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Season and Cook Chicken: Rub Cajun spice generously over each chicken breast. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil until hot. Cook chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Add Garlic and Spinach: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and let it rest. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and fresh spinach; sauté until fragrant and wilted.
Create Creamy Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet with garlic and spinach. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan cheese until melted together into a luscious sauce.
Toss Everything Together!: Slice the rested chicken into strips. Add cooked pasta to the creamy sauce along with sliced chicken. Toss everything together until well coated in that delightful sauce.
Now you have an irresistibly delicious blackened chicken pasta ready to serve!
Enjoy every bite as you savor the smoky notes mingled with creamy goodness!
You Must Know
- Blackened Chicken Pasta is not just flavorful; it’s a showstopper for any dinner
- The blend of spices and creamy sauce creates a harmonious balance
- Serve it on a colorful plate to impress your family and friends, and watch them devour every bite!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in flavor, then cook the pasta while you prepare the creamy sauce. This sequence ensures everything comes together perfectly without unnecessary waiting.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in zucchini noodles for a low-carb option or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor burst. Customize your dish according to your pantry!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your chicken is thoroughly seasoned before searing for maximum flavor
- Use fresh herbs if possible; they elevate the dish beautifully
- Don’t rush cooking; allow flavors to meld for a richer taste experience
Sometimes, I whip up this Blackened Chicken Pasta when friends drop by unexpectedly, and they always ask for seconds! The smiles around the table say it all.
FAQ
Can I use boneless thighs instead of chicken breasts for Blackened Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! Boneless thighs will add more moisture and flavor to your dish.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
You can use coconut milk or cashew cream as lighter alternatives.
How spicy is the blackening seasoning?
The spice level varies; adjust cayenne pepper based on your heat preference!
Blackened Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the bold flavors of blackened chicken pasta, a creamy and spicy dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich sauce. Ideal for any dinner occasion!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 tbsp Cajun spice blend
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Chop spinach (if using) and mince garlic.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season and cook chicken: Rub Cajun spice blend onto chicken breasts. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken for 6–8 minutes per side, until golden brown. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice.
- Sauté garlic and spinach: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and spinach. Cook until fragrant and spinach is wilted.
- Create creamy sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet, add lemon juice and Parmesan cheese, and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine: Toss the sliced chicken with the cooked pasta in the creamy sauce until well-coated.
Notes
- For a low-carb option, substitute zucchini noodles for regular pasta.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor boost.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently with cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 830mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 135mg