One Pan Blackened Chicken Alfredo

When the sizzling sound of chicken hits a hot pan, it’s hard not to get excited. This One Pan Blackened Chicken Alfredo comes together in about 30 minutes and offers bold flavors with a creamy, comforting finish. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; everything cooks together, creating a delicious one-pan meal with minimal cleanup.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends. You can make it ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches. The blackened chicken and creamy Alfredo sauce are sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Enjoy a perfectly seared, blackened chicken cutlet that is juicy and full of flavor.
• Experience a rich, creamy sauce that complements the spice of the chicken beautifully.
• Achieve a hassle-free meal with minimal cleanup thanks to the one-pan method.
• Benefit from fresh ingredients like spinach, adding both nutrition and color to your plate.

What You’ll Need

Gather the ingredients for a flavorful meal that cooks in one pan.

For the Chicken

• 1 lb. chicken breasts, butterfly into cutlets
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne
• 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup sweet onion, diced small
• 1.5 teaspoons garlic, minced (about 2-3 cloves)
• ½ – ¾ cup low sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2-3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
• 3 ounces baby spinach, fresh
• Pinch kosher salt (as needed)
• Few turns cracked black pepper (as needed)

Avocado oil can be replaced with olive oil.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken breasts can be swapped for thighs.
• Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half.
• Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano.
• Baby spinach can be exchanged for kale or Swiss chard.

How to Make It

Get ready to create a delicious meal in just a few steps.

Prepare the Blackening Spice

1. Mix the spices: In a small bowl, combine the dried oregano, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, cracked black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne. This will be your blackening spice mix.

Prepare the Chicken

2. Season the chicken: Rub the blackening spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken cutlets.

Sauté the Chicken

3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add avocado oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken cutlets. Cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and have a blackened crust. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Make the Sauce

4. Sauté the onion: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the diced sweet onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

5. Add the chicken broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan, and bring it to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes.

6. Incorporate the cream: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.

7. Stir in the spinach: Add the baby spinach to the sauce, letting it wilt for a minute. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Assemble

8. Combine: Return the blackened chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the chicken. Allow everything to heat through for another minute before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the cream sauce may separate.
Reheat: Heat on the stovetop over medium until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken for a perfect sear.
• Use fresh minced garlic for a more vibrant flavor.
• Adjust the heat level by altering the cayenne amount based on your spice preference.
• Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread for a classic touch.
• Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Enjoy alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.