Introduction
Discover the ultimate comfort meal with our savory blackened chicken pasta recipe, blending perfectly seasoned chicken with creamy sauce and al dente pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this flavorful dish is sure to become a family favorite.
What Makes Blackened Chicken Pasta So Special?
The magic of blackened chicken pasta lies in its bold flavors. The blackening spices combined with a rich, creamy sauce create a harmonious balance that’s both hearty and irresistible.
Ingredients for Savory Blackened Chicken Pasta
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil salted water and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook Chicken
Season chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook chicken until blackened and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes per side. Set aside to rest, then slice.
Step 3: Prepare Vegetables
In the same skillet, sauté peppers and onions until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any flavorful bits. Add heavy cream and simmer until sauce thickens. Stir in Parmesan cheese until creamy and smooth.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return sliced chicken and pasta to skillet, stirring gently to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Use homemade Cajun seasoning for personalized flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it should be juicy inside with a flavorful crust.
- Adjust spice levels to your preference by modifying Cajun seasoning.
Delicious Variations
- Substitute shrimp or sausage for chicken.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Use gluten-free pasta for dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or a crisp white wine like Chardonnay to complement its flavors.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Healthier Alternatives
- Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
- Use whole wheat pasta or vegetable noodles.
- Grill or bake chicken instead of pan-frying.
FAQs About Blackened Chicken Pasta
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, substitute cream with coconut milk and omit Parmesan.
- How spicy is blackened chicken pasta? Spice level varies; adjust Cajun seasoning to taste.
- Can I freeze blackened chicken pasta? Pasta dishes with cream sauce don’t freeze well. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Chef Secrets for Restaurant-Quality Taste
Renowned chefs recommend adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for added depth or finishing with a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
From its robust spices to the silky, creamy sauce, blackened chicken pasta is comfort food at its finest—easy enough for weekdays yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.
Conclusion
Our savory blackened chicken pasta recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience packed with flavor and comforting textures. Follow our detailed guide, experiment with variations, and enjoy restaurant-quality pasta right at home. Bon appétit!
PrintSavory Blackened Chicken Pasta Recipe: An Irresistible Cajun Delight
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Enjoy this savory blackened chicken pasta recipe—perfectly seasoned chicken in creamy Cajun sauce for a delicious comfort dinner!
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
-
Cook Pasta:
Boil salted water, cook penne until al dente according to package instructions, drain, and set aside. -
Cook Chicken:
Season chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook chicken until fully cooked and blackened on each side (about 5-7 minutes per side). Set aside to rest, then slice thinly. -
Sauté Vegetables:
In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers and onion until tender. Add minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant. -
Make the Sauce:
Add chicken broth to skillet, scraping browned bits from the pan. Stir in heavy cream, simmer until slightly thickened, then mix in grated Parmesan cheese until creamy. -
Combine and Serve:
Return chicken slices and cooked pasta to skillet, gently toss to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh Cajun seasoning for authentic, vibrant flavor.
- Don’t overcook chicken to retain tenderness.
- Adjust sauce consistency by adding extra broth or cream as needed.
- Serve immediately to maintain pasta texture and creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 15minutes
- Cook Time: 25minutes