Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo – A Flavor-Packed, Comforting Dish!
If you’re looking for a bold twist on a classic comfort dish, Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo is exactly what you need. This dish combines the creamy, rich goodness of Alfredo sauce with the zesty kick of Cajun spices, creating a flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender, juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta, and the bold seasoning adds the perfect amount of heat without overwhelming the dish. This Cajun chicken Alfredo is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta (or pasta of your choice)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Begin by boiling the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
- Season the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well coated with the spices.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and continue to cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve the creamy Cajun chicken Alfredo hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, 1/4 of the recipe):
| Calories | 650 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbs | 50g |
| Fat | 36g |
| Sodium | 890mg |
Printable Recipe Summary:
| Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo | |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the pasta can be prepared ahead of time, the sauce is best when fresh. You can reheat it on the stovetop, adding a little extra cream or milk to loosen it up.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.
Q: Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes! If you like more heat, you can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for extra spice.
Q: Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes! This dish works well with shrimp, sausage, or even just vegetables if you prefer a meatless version.
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo offers the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with a bold kick of Cajun spice. It’s a rich, indulgent meal that’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Enjoy the comforting flavors with every bite!
