Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo With The Fancy Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (cut into bite‑size pieces)
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for searing)
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (divided; half for searing, half for sauce)
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Cajun Seasoning
• 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 12 ounces Fettuccine Pasta (or any long pasta)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 4 ounces Cream Cheese (softened, cut into cubes)
• ½ cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
• ½ cup Pasta Water (reserved from boiling pasta)
• 1 teaspoon Salt (for pasta water)
• ½ teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

1. Season and Sear the Chicken

   Pat the chicken pieces dry, then toss them with Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium‑high heat (about 375°F). Add the chicken in a single layer and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 3‑4 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.

   Time: PT8M

   Temperature: 375°F

2. Boil the Pasta

   Fill the large pot with 4‑5 quarts of water, add 1 tsp salt, and bring to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. Cook until al dente according to package directions (usually 9‑11 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.

   Time: PT12M

   Temperature: 212°F

3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

   In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the remaining 1 tbsp butter over medium heat (about 300°F). Once melted, add any remaining minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the cream cheese cubes, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Mix in the grated Parmesan, then pour in the reserved pasta water, stirring constantly until the sauce reaches a silky consistency.

   Time: PT6M

   Temperature: 300°F

4. Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

   Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce. Return the seared chicken pieces to the pan and mix gently until everything is heated through, about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.

   Time: PT3M

5. Plate and Enjoy

   Divide the creamy chicken alfredo pasta among four plates or bowls. Optionally drizzle a tiny bit of extra olive oil for shine and serve hot.

   Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

620

Protein

32g

Carbohydrates

55g

Fat

28g

Fiber

3g