Save A bold, creamy pasta dish featuring tender Cajun-spiced chicken tossed with fettuccine in a rich Alfredo sauce, perfect for spice lovers.
The first time I made this Spicy Cajun Chicken Alfredo, I was surprised at how quickly it came together and how the entire family wanted seconds. Combining the warmth of Cajun spice with the richness of a classic Alfredo has made it our go-to for cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) fettuccine
- Alfredo Sauce: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, 1 cup (100 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for extra heat), salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Garnishes: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, extra grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Season Chicken:
- While the pasta cooks, pat chicken breasts dry and coat them evenly with Cajun seasoning.
- Cook Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5 6 minutes per side or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove chicken from the skillet, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Make Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Finish Alfredo:
- Stir in heavy cream, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer, then whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss Pasta:
- Add cooked fettuccine to the sauce, tossing to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time for a silkier sauce.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Top pasta with sliced Cajun chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Save My kids love helping sprinkle the Cajun seasoning and watching the cheese melt into the sauce while the kitchen fills with the aroma of garlic and spice. Sharing this meal always brings smiles to our table.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a satisfying meal. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, is a wonderful complement to the dish's heat and creaminess.
Variations
Try swapping fettuccine for penne or linguine, or reduce the heat by omitting chili flakes. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce smooth.
Save This easy Spicy Cajun Chicken Alfredo brings bold flavor and creamy comfort to your dinner table. Enjoy every spicy, cheesy bite!
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and cook over medium-high heat to seal juices. Let it rest before slicing to retain moisture.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, increase or decrease Cajun seasoning and chili flakes to suit your preferred heat intensity.
- → What can I use instead of fettuccine?
Penne, linguine, or other pasta shapes work well and will absorb the sauce nicely.
- → How do I make the sauce creamier?
Add reserved pasta water gradually while tossing the pasta to achieve a silkier, smoother sauce.
- → Is there a lighter alternative for the cream?
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce without compromising much creaminess.