Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo 

 Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo 

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

1 lb. Mafaldine noodles (or fettuccini/linguini noodles)
For the Chicken:

3 chicken breasts
4 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons blackened seasoning (see recipe below)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:

6 tablespoons butter
6-8 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1.5 cups shredded Parmesan cheese
Optional:

Garlic bread, Texas toast, or garlic knots for serving
My Homemade Blackened Seasoning:

2 tablespoons smoked paprika (regular paprika works too)
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon onion powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:

Prepare the Blackened Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the blackened seasoning. Set aside.
Cook the Pasta:
Cook the Mafaldine noodles (or your choice of pasta) according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of the blackened seasoning, ensuring they are well coated.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice blackened crust. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing.
Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy whipping cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of blackened seasoning and the shredded Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine:
Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat evenly. Slice the blackened chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
Serve:
Serve the Blackened Cajun Chicken Alfredo hot, with optional garlic bread, Texas toast, or garlic knots on the side.