If you’re craving a hearty and flavorful dish, blackened chicken pasta is the perfect choice. This dish combines the smoky, spicy flavors of blackened chicken with the rich, creamy goodness of pasta, resulting in a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious blackened chicken pasta at home.
Ingredients
For the Blackened Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
8 ounces of your choice of pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine work well)
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Blackened Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to create the blackening seasoning.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and coat them evenly with the olive oil.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing it into the meat for maximum flavor.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until the chicken is blackened and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy 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 in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly with the sauce.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the sliced blackened chicken on top of the pasta, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
Serve hot and enjoy the rich, spicy, and creamy flavors of your blackened chicken pasta.
Tips and Variations
Vegetable Add-ins: Enhance this dish with vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
Protein Swap: If you prefer, you can use shrimp instead of chicken. Simply season and cook them the same way.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix based on your spice tolerance.
This blackened chicken pasta recipe is an excellent blend of spicy, smoky, and creamy flavors that can elevate any meal. It’s a perfect dish for weeknight dinners or for impressing guests.
With its bold seasoning and rich sauce, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
To make the most of your blackened chicken pasta, consider serving it with a few complementary sides and drinks. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
Garlic Bread: A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is a classic side that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. Its crunchy texture provides a nice contrast to the pasta.
Salad: A fresh, crisp salad can balance the richness of the dish. Consider a simple Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
Wine Pairing: For those who enjoy wine, a crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir can be an excellent choice to complement the spicy and creamy elements of the dish.
Non-Alcoholic Option: A refreshing iced tea or a sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime can help cleanse the palate between bites.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, this dish can be stored and enjoyed later:
Storage: Place any leftover blackened chicken pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to the pasta to loosen the sauce, as it may thicken in the fridge. Warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Customization Ideas
This recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your preferences:
Lighter Option: For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt. You can also use whole wheat pasta or a gluten-free alternative to suit dietary needs.
Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices in the blackening mix. Add a pinch of cumin for an earthy flavor or some smoked chili powder for an extra kick.
Cheese Alternatives: While Parmesan cheese provides a classic taste, you can use other cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This blackened chicken pasta recipe combines the best of both worlds: the bold and spicy taste of blackened chicken with the comforting creaminess of pasta. It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The smoky, spicy notes from the chicken are beautifully balanced by the rich sauce, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its robust flavors and easy preparation. Plus, with the variety of ways you can customize it, this dish can be tailored to match your taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
Blackened chicken pasta is a delightful and flavorful meal that’s surprisingly simple to make.
Its combination of smoky, spicy chicken and creamy pasta creates a comforting yet exciting dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the recipe to make it your own. Whether you like it extra spicy or prefer a milder flavor, this dish is versatile enough to accommodate your taste.
So, gather your ingredients and give this blackened chicken pasta a try. It’s a sure way to bring bold, restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen. Enjoy every bite of this savory, comforting meal!
