Embark on a culinary journey with us as we delve into creating an irresistible Blackened Chicken Pasta dish. This meal is a fusion of spicy, smoky flavors from perfectly blackened chicken and the creamy comfort of a rich pasta. Whether you're planning a quiet dinner for two or a gathering with friends, this recipe will impress with its simplicity and depth of flavor.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Chicken breasts - 2 large pieces
- Butter - 2 tablespoons
- Blackening seasoning - 2 tablespoons
- Heavy cream - 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese - ½ cup, grated
- Fettuccine pasta - 8 oz.
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Green onions - for garnish
- Salt and pepper - to taste
Having all your ingredients measured and ready will streamline your cooking process, making it more enjoyable and efficient.
Step 2: Preparing the Chicken
Start by flattening the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. Using the flat side of a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken until it’s about ½ inch thick. Generously season both sides of the chicken with blackening seasoning, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.
In a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter until it begins to foam. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Sear for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The key here is to achieve that perfect blackened crust without burning.
📝 Note: Using a cast-iron skillet helps in achieving the perfect blackened color and flavor, as it can withstand high heat.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is blackening, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water for the sauce, then drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.
Tip: Save some of that pasta water! It’s the magic ingredient for a silky-smooth sauce.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
After removing the chicken from the skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add more butter if needed, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until you achieve a smooth, creamy sauce.
| Key Steps | Time Estimate |
|---|---|
| Sauté Garlic | 1 minute |
| Add Cream | 2 minutes |
| Mix in Parmesan | 3-4 minutes |
If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust its consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
📝 Note: Adjust the cream sauce thickness by adding pasta water, little by little, until you get your preferred consistency.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Slice the blackened chicken into strips. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cream sauce, tossing well to coat. Place the chicken slices on top or mix them in if preferred. Garnish with green onions for a fresh touch.
Your Blackened Chicken Pasta dish is now ready to serve. This dish combines the deep, smoky flavors of blackened chicken with the indulgent comfort of creamy pasta, making it a crowd-pleaser. Here are some key takeaways from the process:
- The blackening seasoning adds layers of flavor to the chicken, enhancing the overall taste.
- A cast-iron skillet is crucial for achieving the perfect sear on the chicken.
- Pasta water is essential for creating a smooth, silky sauce that adheres well to the pasta.
Can I use a different pasta shape for this dish?
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Absolutely! While fettuccine works well with the creamy sauce, feel free to use penne, linguine, or even spaghetti. The key is to ensure the pasta sauce adheres well to the pasta shape of your choice.
What can I do if I don’t have blackening seasoning?
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You can make your own by combining spices like paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the quantities to your taste, especially the cayenne for heat level.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
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Yes, you can omit the chicken and instead use smoked paprika to blacken vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative.
How can I make this dish healthier?
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Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, reduce the amount of heavy cream by half and supplement with chicken broth, and consider grilling the chicken instead of pan-searing to lower the fat content.
How do I store leftovers?
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
