Blackened Chicken Pasta Recipe
Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner, look no further than this blackened chicken pasta recipe. This dish combines the bold flavors of blackened chicken with perfectly cooked pasta, creating a meal that is sure to please your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone wanting more. So, let’s get started on making this flavorful and hearty blackened chicken pasta!
Ingredients
To make this blackened chicken pasta recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step directions for making this scrumptious blackened chicken pasta.
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with the blackening seasoning. Make sure to coat both sides of the chicken evenly.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side until it is cooked through and nicely blackened. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté it for a minute until fragrant. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and spinach to the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes are slightly softened and the spinach has wilted.
While the veggies are cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside.
Once the veggies are cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine the cream with the veggies. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and veggies. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Finally, slice the blackened chicken breasts into thin strips and place them on top of the pasta. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the blackened chicken pasta hot and enjoy!
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While this recipe calls for penne pasta, you can use any type of pasta you prefer or have on hand. Fusilli, rigatoni, or even spaghetti would work well with the blackened chicken and creamy sauce.
Q: Is it necessary to use blackening seasoning for the chicken?
A: Blackening seasoning adds a distinct flavor and color to the chicken, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can use a combination of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt as a substitute. Adjust the amounts according to your taste preferences.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to enjoy the blackened chicken pasta immediately after cooking, you can make the components ahead of time. Cook the chicken, boil the pasta, and prep the veggies and sauce. When you’re ready to serve, heat everything together in a skillet and assemble the dish.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences. Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms would all be delicious additions to the dish.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth or stock instead of heavy cream. You can also add extra veggies or tofu for added protein.
Now that you have the recipe and directions, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. This blackened chicken pasta is sure to become a family favorite, and you’ll love how easily it comes together. Enjoy!
