Description
A creamy and flavorful one-pot Cajun Chicken Alfredo that combines tender, seasoned chicken with perfectly cooked fettuccine in a rich Cajun-spiced Alfredo sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this comforting dish offers a spicy twist on the classic Italian favorite, making it perfect for a quick, satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken & Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
Liquid & Pasta
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half and half
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 ounces uncooked fettuccini pasta
Cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring it does not burn.
- Add liquids and seasoning: Pour in chicken broth and half and half, stirring to combine. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the flavors.
- Cook the pasta: Add uncooked fettuccini pasta to the pot, making sure it is mostly submerged in the liquid. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and sauce has thickened, about 10-12 minutes.
- Combine chicken and pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the pot and stir well to evenly distribute the chicken throughout the pasta and sauce.
- Finish with cheese: Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Serve: Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the chicken.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Half and half can be substituted with heavy cream for an even richer sauce.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while simmering the pasta to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.