Description
This Cajun Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that combines tender, spiced chicken with a rich Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe balances the boldness of Cajun seasoning with the smoothness of Alfredo sauce for a delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional Additions & Garnish
- ½ cup diced tomatoes or bell peppers (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta and set it aside.
- Season and sear the chicken: Toss the cubed chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning to coat evenly. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes until fully cooked and slightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Simmer with cream and cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Combine chicken and pasta with the sauce: Return the cooked Cajun chicken to the skillet, then add the drained fettuccine. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken evenly in the Alfredo sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it up.
- Add optional vegetables: For extra freshness and color, gently mix in diced tomatoes or bell peppers if using.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta and serve hot. Enjoy your flavorful Cajun Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo!
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your spice preference.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
- Reserve some pasta water to help loosen the sauce and achieve the perfect consistency.
- Diced tomatoes or bell peppers add a nice burst of freshness but can be omitted if preferred.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
