There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty plate of pasta, especially when it’s enveloped in a creamy sauce and topped with perfectly seasoned chicken. Blackened Chicken Fettuccine is a dish that combines bold flavors with creamy textures, making it an instant favorite for any pasta lover. This recipe will guide you through creating a dish that not only looks impressive but tastes absolutely divine. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Reasons to Love Blackened Chicken Fettuccine
Blackened Chicken Fettuccine is a dish that brings together a variety of flavors and textures. Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:
- Flavor Explosion: The blackening seasoning adds a spicy, smoky kick to the juicy chicken.
- Creamy Goodness: The rich cream sauce creates a luxurious coating for the fettuccine, making every bite delightful.
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice levels and add your favorite vegetables.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the dish make it visually appealing and perfect for entertaining.
Ingredient Breakdown
To make this delicious Blackened Chicken Fettuccine, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness: Ensures even cooking and tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning: A mix of spices that gives the chicken its signature flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the chicken and adding richness.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic depth to the dish.
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Provides a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: The base of the creamy sauce that envelops the pasta.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature: Adds a rich texture to the sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For a cheesy finish and flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper: For a milder pepper flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a lovely herbaceous note.
- 1 (16-ounce) package fettuccine, cooked and drained: The perfect pasta to hold the creamy sauce.
- Parmesan cheese for serving: For an extra cheesy touch on top.
Tools & Equipment Needed
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Large skillet: For cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
- Pot for boiling pasta: To cook the fettuccine to al dente perfection.
- Meat mallet or rolling pin: To pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce and pasta.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of ingredients.
- Colander: For draining the cooked pasta.
Blackened Chicken Fettuccine: How It’s Done
Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by pounding the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook uniformly. Season both sides generously with the blackening seasoning, pressing it into the meat for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice charred exterior. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the pepper is tender.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Base
Pour in the heavy cream and add the cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is fully incorporated. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese while stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, white pepper, and dried thyme.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Slice the rested chicken and arrange it on top of the pasta for an elegant presentation.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Blackened Chicken Fettuccine immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Spring to Winter: Ideas
This dish is versatile and can be adapted to suit different seasons. Here are some ideas to switch things up:
- Add seasonal vegetables like asparagus or spinach in spring.
- In summer, incorporate fresh tomatoes and basil for a light touch.
- In fall, consider adding roasted butternut squash for sweetness.
- During winter, throw in some kale or sautéed mushrooms for heartiness.
Avoid These Mistakes
Creating the perfect Blackened Chicken Fettuccine requires attention to detail. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the even thickness on the chicken: Uneven pieces can lead to some parts being overcooked while others are undercooked.
- Not using freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can alter the texture of your sauce.
- Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook the fettuccine al dente, as it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce.
- Rushing the sauce: Allowing time for the flavors to meld is essential for a rich, creamy sauce.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
If you have leftovers (which is often the case with this delicious dish), follow these tips:
- Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To rewarm, heat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Common Questions
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
Is the blackening seasoning spicy?
The blackening seasoning does have a bit of heat, but it’s well-balanced with other flavors. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount or make your own blend.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just combine them with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with Blackened Chicken Fettuccine?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
If you enjoyed this Blackened Chicken Fettuccine, you might also love these dishes:
Let’s Eat
Gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and you’ll have a stunning plate of Blackened Chicken Fettuccine that’s sure to impress. The combination of juicy, blackened chicken with a creamy sauce over perfectly cooked fettuccine will make this dish a new family favorite. Enjoy every bite!
Blackened Chicken Fettuccine
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by pounding the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season both sides generously with the blackening seasoning, pressing it into the meat for maximum flavor.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice charred exterior. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the pepper is tender.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is fully incorporated. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese while stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, white pepper, and dried thyme.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. Slice the rested chicken and arrange it on top of the pasta for an elegant presentation.
- Serve the Blackened Chicken Fettuccine immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the spice levels by adjusting the blackening seasoning.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
