The aroma of sizzling spices and creamy goodness wafts through the air as you step into your kitchen, making you feel like a gourmet chef. Imagine a plate of creamy blackened chicken pasta in front of youâsmoky, spicy chicken nestled in a bed of luscious cream sauce and al dente pasta, making your taste buds do the happy dance.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that reminds me of summer nights spent laughing with friends over a table full of food. The excitement builds when I tell them about this creamy blackened chicken pasta dishâthey can hardly wait to dig in!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy blackened chicken pasta dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
- Its bold flavors will ignite your taste buds and impress your guests.
- The rich colors and textures make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Versatile enough for any occasion or gathering, itâs sure to be a hit at potlucks or date nights!
I once made this dish for my friends during game night, and let’s just say there was not a single noodle left behind!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts but adjust based on your crowd size.
- Blackening Seasoning: A blend of spices that adds depth; homemade or store-bought works well here.
- Pasta: Opt for fettuccine or penne; they hold the sauce beautifully.
- Heavy Cream: For that luscious creaminess; half-and-half can work in a pinch but wonât be as rich.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese enhances flavor significantly; skip pre-grated for best results.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness and color; a must-have garnish!
- Olive Oil: For cooking the chicken; choose extra virgin for its robust flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic goodness that elevates the entire dish.
- Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the flavors beautifully; donât skip it!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that pull all flavors together.
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 garlic finely and set aside. Prepare your chicken by patting it dry to ensure even cooking.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with blackening seasoning before placing them in the hot skillet.
SautĂŠ Until Golden: Cook the chicken for about 7-8 minutes on each side until it develops a beautiful dark crust and is cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest.
Add Garlic: In that same skillet, add minced garlic and sautĂŠ until fragrantâabout 30 seconds should do it. The aromas will make you feel like a culinary superstar!
Create the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream while scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Stir in lemon juice and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, boil your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it but reserve some pasta water for thinning if needed.
Toss It All Together: Slice the rested chicken into strips before adding it back into the skillet along with drained pasta. Toss everything together to coat thoroughly in that luscious sauce.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Kick back as everyone marvels at your culinary prowessâyou deserve it!
This delightful creamy blackened chicken pasta dish takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish but tastes like you’ve been slaving away for hours! Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- Cooking creamy blackened chicken pasta is about balancing spice and creaminess.
- The smoky flavor from the blackened chicken combined with a rich sauce will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Donât forget to taste as you go; itâs the secret to perfection!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the chicken and searing it until golden brown, then cook the pasta while making the creamy sauce. This sequence saves time and ensures each component is perfectly cooked.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. Experiment with different spices based on your preferences to make it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to keep it creamy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When blackening the chicken, ensure your pan is hot enough to achieve that perfect crust without burning.
- Always taste your sauce before serving; adjustments can make a huge difference in flavor.
- Lastly, remember that pasta should be al dente, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
It was one of those nights when my friends decided to stop by unexpectedly. I whipped up this creamy blackened chicken pasta dish, and their delighted faces made me realize I had stumbled upon a real crowd-pleaser!
FAQ
What kind of pasta works best for creamy blackened chicken pasta?
Fettuccine or penne are ideal choices as they hold onto cream sauces well.
Can I use other proteins besides chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp or tofu can also be delicious alternatives in this recipe.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.
Creamy Blackened Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in this creamy blackened chicken pasta, featuring tender chicken coated in a smoky spice blend, tossed with al dente pasta and a rich, velvety sauce.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Blackening seasoning
- Fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather and chop garlic; pat chicken dry.
- Season chicken with blackening seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 7-8 minutes per side until golden brown; remove and let rest.
- SautĂŠ garlic in the same skillet for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and reserve some water.
- Slice rested chicken; add to the skillet with pasta and toss to coat.
- Serve immediately garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: - For added nutrition, incorporate spinach or bell peppers into the dish. - Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for different protein options.
