This Blackened Chicken Pasta is bursting with flavor! Juicy chicken coated in bold spices is tossed with creamy pasta and veggies, making it a hearty meal.
I love how the spice rub adds a nice kick! It’s perfect for impressing friends or just treating myself to a yummy dinner. Plus, it’s super satisfying! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are ideal for this dish since they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use turkey breasts instead.
Spices: The spice mix gives the chicken its signature flavor. If you prefer milder spices, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. You could also use Cajun seasoning if you have it on hand.
Pasta: I recommend fettuccine or linguine for a nice texture. However, other pasta shapes like penne or spaghetti would work just as well, so feel free to use what you have!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just keep in mind that it may change the dish’s richness a bit.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Blackened Chicken?
The key to getting that perfect char on your chicken is all about the spice mix and cooking method. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the spices stick better.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot, but not smoking. This will help create that beautiful crust.
- Cook the chicken without moving it for the first few minutes. Let it sear properly to get that nice blackened edge!
- Always allow the chicken to rest before slicing. This keeps the juices in for a tender bite.
How to Make Blackened Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken & Spice Mix:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful Blackened Chicken Pasta takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the chicken and pasta, and about 20 minutes cooking everything. It’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This will be your bold blackening spice mix to coat the chicken. It’s packed with flavor!
2. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the spices stick better. Evenly coat both sides of the chicken with the blackening spice mix, making sure they’re fully covered.
3. Cooking the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice charred crust. This should look delicious! Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
4. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine or linguine according to package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still firm). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
5. Make the Sauce:
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. This will smell amazing!
6. Create the Creamy Base:
Stir in the heavy cream and allow it to come to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken slightly for about 2-3 minutes. The sauce should look rich and creamy.
7. Add Cheese and Veggies:
Add the grated parmesan cheese to the cream sauce, stirring until it’s melted and smooth. Next, toss in the fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes. Cook for a couple of minutes until the spinach wilts. It’s all coming together!
8. Combine with Pasta:
Now, add the drained pasta to the skillet and gently toss it all together, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. You want every bite to be delightful!
9. Serve It Up:
Plate the creamy pasta and artfully top it with slices of the blackened chicken. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra pinch of grated parmesan will give it an inviting touch.
10. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and savor your delicious Blackened Chicken Pasta. It’s packed with bold flavors and is sure to impress anyone who tries it!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and remain juicy due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Make sure to season them well and cook until they are nicely browned. You can use vegetable broth instead of cream for a lighter sauce if desired.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revitalize the sauce.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to include other veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or asparagus. Just add them in with the spinach or sauté them separately before mixing them into the pasta for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition!