Description
This Cajun Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo is a delicious fusion of creamy Alfredo pasta with a spicy Cajun twist. Tender cubed chicken breasts are seasoned and seared to perfection, then tossed with fettuccine pasta in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Optional diced tomatoes or bell peppers add a fresh burst of flavor and color, while chopped parsley provides a lovely garnish. A perfect dinner option for those craving comforting, flavorful pasta with a bit of heat.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
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 Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare Chicken: Toss the cubed chicken with Cajun seasoning to coat evenly. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken pieces for 4–5 minutes, or until fully cooked and slightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Slowly whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked Cajun chicken to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Add the drained fettuccine pasta and toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it to your desired consistency.
- Add Optional Vegetables: For added freshness and color, stir in diced tomatoes or bell peppers if using. Heat through briefly to combine.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a bright garnish. Serve the Cajun Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo hot and enjoy your flavorful meal!
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
- Optional vegetables add freshness but can be omitted for a classic Alfredo flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid sauce separation.
