This Blackened Chicken Pasta is a tasty dish that’s packed with bold flavors. Juicy chicken coated in spices meets creamy sauce and pasta for a delightful meal!
You’ll love how quick it is to make, perfect for busy nights! I usually toss in some fresh veggies to make it even better. Easy, comforting, and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish because they cook quickly and absorb the spices well. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier result or even use tofu for a vegetarian option!
Spices: The blackening seasoning is key to the dish’s flavor. If you don’t have cayenne pepper, smoked paprika can add a different yet nice smoky flavor. Feel free to adjust the spices to your heat preference!
Pasta: Fettuccine or linguine work wonderfully here, but you can also use penne or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just keep an eye on cooking times!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk, though it will be less rich. You can also use almond milk or coconut cream for dairy-free alternatives!
How Do I Cook Blackened Chicken Perfectly?
Getting perfectly blackened chicken is all about the right technique! Here’s a simple way to achieve that delicious char:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps the spices stick and creates a nice crust.
- Heat your skillet until it’s nice and hot before adding oil. This prevents the chicken from sticking and helps with that blackened effect.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Don’t flip it too soon; let it develop a crust first!
- Check with a meat thermometer (165°F/75°C) for doneness. Let it rest a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy!
With these tips and insights, you’re all set for a delicious Blackened Chicken Pasta experience! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Blackened Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Blackening Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking chicken)
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Blackened Chicken Pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll enjoy a flavorful meal in no time, perfect for a quick dinner after a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Blackening Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
2. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub the blackening seasoning all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they are blackened and cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C). Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing them into strips.
4. Cook the Pasta:
While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Add Cheese and Spinach:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the chopped spinach and cook until it is wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to thoroughly coat it with the creamy spinach sauce.
8. Serve:
To serve, plate the creamy pasta and top it with the sliced blackened chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Enjoy your flavorful Blackened Chicken Pasta!
Can I Use Different Pasta Types for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or linguine works best, you can easily substitute with penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta type you choose!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce or use milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to thicken it. For a dairy-free option, almond milk or coconut cream can work, but keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or a little water to keep the pasta from drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in additional veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce. Just sauté them briefly with the garlic before adding the cream for extra flavor and nutrition!
