Description
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites paired with a Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta makes for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Tender chicken pieces are sautéed in a fragrant garlic butter with smoky Cajun spices, then served atop creamy, cheesy Alfredo pasta enhanced with a spicy kick of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes. This dish combines rich, comforting flavors with a bit of heat, perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Bites
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Spicy Cajun Alfredo Pasta
- 12 oz twisted pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the twisted pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside for later use.
- Sauté Garlic for Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes.
- Cook Chicken Bites: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season with smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm.
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce: Pour in 1.5 cups heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, Cajun seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese melts fully and the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Assemble and Serve: Plate the cheesy, spicy Cajun Alfredo pasta and top generously with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; garlic powder will alter the taste.
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy.
- Ensure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
