Description
A rich, velvety Cajun chicken alfredo that comes together in under 30 minutes. This one-pan skillet meal balances comfort with flair, featuring a silky sauce that clings to fettuccine and juicy seared chicken.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with 1.5 tbsp Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pound to even thickness if needed.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove to a plate and tent with foil.
- While chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low. Melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and remaining 0.5 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
- Whisk in Parmesan cheese gradually until melted and sauce thickens. Add pasta water if too thick.
- Add cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat. Slice chicken and arrange on top. Serve immediately.
Notes
Do not substitute heavy cream with milk for true creaminess. Always grate your own Parmesan to avoid anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Save pasta water to help emulsify the sauce. If the sauce breaks, whisk in cold water or pasta water off heat. Chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate with sliced
- Calories: 750
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 42
- Saturated Fat: 24
- Carbohydrates: 65
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 35
Keywords: Cajun Chicken Alfredo, creamy pasta, quick dinner, dinner party recipe, one-pan meal, chicken alfredo, spicy pasta