Key Takeaways
- Quick and Easy Meal: Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Alfredo is ideal for busy weeknights, offering rich flavors without the need for hours in the kitchen.
- Key Ingredients: Essential components include Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Mix, chicken breast, fettuccine pasta, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese for optimal flavor and creaminess.
- Proper Cooking Techniques: Season the chicken well and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for optimal taste and safety.
- Pasta Preparation: Cook fettuccine until al dente, and reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, and garnish with red pepper flakes and parsley for added nutrition and visual appeal.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve in shallow bowls with a side salad or garlic bread, and consider pairing with a light white wine or sparkling water for a complete dining experience.
Ever craved a delicious meal that’s quick and easy to whip up? Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Alfredo might just be your new go-to dish. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
Gathering the right ingredients is essential for preparing Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Alfredo. You’ll create a delicious and creamy dish that satisfies your taste buds.
Main Ingredients
- Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Mix: This spice mix provides the distinctive flavor and blackened effect.
- Chicken Breast: Use about 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Fettuccine Pasta: Prepare 8 ounces of fettuccine or your preferred pasta for the dish.
- Heavy Cream: Use 1 cup for a rich, creamy sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate about 1 cup for flavor and texture in your Alfredo sauce.
- Olive Oil: Use 2 tablespoons for cooking the chicken and helping the spices adhere.
- Garlic: Mince 2 cloves of garlic for added flavor.
- Vegetables: Consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and taste. About 1 cup total will enhance the dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a bit of heat, sprinkle a teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
- Fresh Parsley: Chop 2 tablespoons of parsley for garnish, adding freshness and color.
- Lemon Juice: A tablespoon can brighten the flavors of your dish.
- Additional Cheese: Adding mozzarella or asiago cheese can enhance creaminess and flavor even more. Use about ½ cup.
Preparation Steps
Follow these steps to make Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Alfredo a delicious success.
Preparing the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts generously with Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Mix. This will add bold flavor and a nice crust.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and the outside is nicely browned. Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil Water: In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt. The salt enhances flavor and prevents sticking.
- Cook the Fettuccine: Add 12 ounces of fettuccine pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions—usually around 9–11 minutes—for al dente results.
- Drain and Save Water: Once done, drain the pasta in a colander, but reserve about 1 cup of pasta water. This starchy water helps adjust the sauce consistency.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn them.
- Add Cream: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir and allow it to simmer on low heat for 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Incorporate Cheese: Mix in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Combine: Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce. Toss well to coat. If using vegetables, add them now for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Finish with Chicken: Slice the rested chicken and lay it on top of the pasta. Garnish with red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, and additional cheese, if desired.
These preparation steps ensure a flavorful and satisfying meal ready to enjoy.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to create a delicious Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Alfredo.
Combining Ingredients
- Gather all ingredients before starting. You need Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Mix, chicken breasts, fettuccine pasta, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and any optional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Mix. Ensure even coverage for maximum flavor.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into strips.
- In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- While the pasta cooks, sauté 2 minced garlic cloves in the same skillet used for the chicken. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
- Combine the drained fettuccine with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Top the pasta with sliced chicken. Garnish with red pepper flakes, freshly chopped parsley, and extra cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful meal!
Serving Suggestions
Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Alfredo shines when paired with thoughtful elements that enhance its flavors and presentation.
Plating the Dish
Serve Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Alfredo in wide, shallow bowls. This allows the creamy sauce and vibrant colors of the dish to stand out. For an attractive touch, layer the fettuccine first, followed by sliced chicken, and drizzle extra sauce on top. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes for color and flavor. Consider adding a wedge of lemon on the side to brighten the dish.
Pairing Ideas
Pair this dish with side options that complement its richness. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad topped with a light vinaigrette. This balances the creamy texture of the Alfredo and adds a refreshing contrast. For those who prefer an extra crunch, garlic bread or cheese breadsticks add delightful texture. A light, crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, supports the dish’s flavors without overpowering them. If you want a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon provides a refreshing touch.
Conclusion
You’re all set to whip up Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Alfredo and impress everyone at your table. With its creamy goodness and bold flavors it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.
Don’t hesitate to get creative with the ingredients and make it your own. Whether you add extra veggies or a sprinkle of your favorite cheese the possibilities are endless.
Enjoy the process and savor every bite of this delightful dish. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Alfredo?
Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Alfredo is a creamy pasta dish featuring seasoned chicken breast, fettuccine pasta, and a rich sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. It’s a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
What ingredients do I need to make this dish?
To prepare Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Alfredo, you’ll need Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Mix, chicken breast, fettuccine pasta, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and optional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Additional ingredients like red pepper flakes and fresh parsley are recommended for extra flavor.
How do I prepare the dish?
Start by seasoning and cooking the chicken in olive oil until browned. Boil the fettuccine while sautéing garlic, then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to create the sauce. Combine cooked pasta with the sauce, top with sliced chicken, garnish, and serve.
Can I customize the recipe with vegetables?
Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition. Simply sauté them along with the garlic before adding the cream and cheese for a delicious variation.
What can I serve with Zatarain’s Blackened Chicken Alfredo?
Recommended side dishes include a fresh green salad with vinaigrette, garlic bread or cheese breadsticks, and a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch.
