Fettuccine Alfredo With Blackened Chicken Recipe

Are you looking for a quick and delicious recipe that will impress everyone at home? Fettuccine Alfredo with blackened chicken is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but can also be ready in less than 30 minutes. The blackened chicken adds a spicy touch that, although noticeable, is pleasant even for children. 

Here’s how to prepare this exquisite dish step by step.

Necessary Ingredients

For the blackened chicken:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Alfredo sauce:

• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the pasta:

• 400 grams fettuccine
• Water
• Salt

Preparing the Blackened Chicken

Preparing the blackened chicken is essential to give the dish its distinctive flavor. Start by cutting the chicken breasts into thin strips so they cook evenly and quickly.

1. Prepare the spices: In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
2. Season the chicken: Rub the chicken strips with the olive oil and then coat them evenly with the spice mixture. Make sure all pieces are well covered to maximize the flavor.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken strips for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are well cooked and slightly blackened. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Alfredo Sauce

The Alfredo sauce is key to a creamy and delicious pasta. Here’s how to make it using the same skillet you cooked the chicken in, to capture all the residual flavors.

1. Melt the butter: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Make sure to scrape any bits of chicken that may have stuck to the skillet to add extra flavor to the sauce.
2. Add the garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and slightly golden.
3. Incorporate the cream: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
4. Add the cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking the Fettuccine

To ensure everything is ready at the same time, it’s ideal to cook the pasta while preparing the sauce.

1. Cook the pasta: Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt. Bring to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions, usually between 10-12 minutes, until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta: Once cooked, drain well but reserve a cup of the cooking water in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency later.

Assembling the Dish

Once the chicken, sauce, and pasta are ready, it’s time to combine them.

1. Mix everything: Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved cooking water to adjust it to your liking.
2. Add the chicken: Incorporate the blackened chicken strips and gently mix everything together so the pasta and chicken are well coated with the sauce.
3. Serve: Serve immediately, sprinkling a bit more Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

Tips and Variations

• Parmesan cheese: For better texture and flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated.
• Variations: You can substitute the chicken with blackened shrimp for a different but equally delicious version. You can also use other types of pasta like angel hair or penne.
• Keep the pasta al dente: Cook the pasta at the same time as the sauce to ensure everything is fresh and al dente. Avoid overcooking and then cooling it down.

Benefits and Nutritional Value

This dish is not only delicious but also has certain nutritional benefits. Chicken provides a good source of lean protein, while the Alfredo sauce, although rich, can be enjoyed in moderation. Opting for fresh, high-quality ingredients can make this dish healthier and tastier.

Conclusion

Fettuccine Alfredo with blackened chicken is an easy and quick recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home. With its spicy and creamy flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weekday dinner or a special weekend meal. Give this recipe a try and impress everyone with your culinary skills!