Description
A creamy and flavorful dish featuring blackened chicken served over creamy penne Alfredo, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large chicken breasts (sliced horizontally into 4 thinner cutlets)
- 2 tbsp Cajun or Blackened seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 lb (450g) Penne pasta
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1.5 cups Parmigiano-Reggiano (freshly grated)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in the penne and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Remember to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken cutlets dry, coat with olive oil or melted butter, and dredge in Cajun seasoning and garlic powder.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat, add chicken cutlets, and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through and charred.
- Create the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, add minced garlic, and stir until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Reduce heat to low, whisk in Parmigiano-Reggiano until melted, add cooked penne, and adjust the sauce with reserved pasta water. Season to taste.
- Serve and Garnish: Dish out the creamy penne, top with sliced blackened chicken, and sprinkle chopped parsley and extra cracked pepper.
Notes
Make-ahead tips: Prepare the chicken and sauce a day ahead. Store separately in the fridge. Customize with veggies or protein alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Mixing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 760
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 95g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Keywords: Blackened Chicken, Alfredo, Pasta, Cajun, Comfort Food