Julia Koch
What happens when buttery garlic chicken bites meet a bold Cajun-spiced Alfredo sauce and pillowy twisted pasta? You get the ultimate comfort dinner with just enough heat and indulgent creaminess to make everyone go back for seconds.
This dish is a weeknight hero and a dinner party dazzler. The garlic butter soaks into the golden chicken bites, while the Cajun Alfredo wraps every piece of twisted pasta in a smoky, spicy hug. It’s rich, flavorful, and exactly what your dinner table needs when you’re craving something cozy but exciting.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
To bring this flavorful fusion to life, having the right tools makes all the difference:
- Large Non-Stick Skillet: Essential for getting a perfect sear on the chicken without sticking.
- Medium Saucepan: For cooking the twisted pasta to al dente.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for folding the Alfredo sauce gently into the pasta.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: Needed for evenly cubing the chicken to ensure consistent cooking.
- Mixing Bowls: Helpful for seasoning and marinating the chicken beforehand.
Each tool helps streamline the cooking process while maximizing flavor and texture. Don’t underestimate how much easier and more enjoyable cooking becomes with the right gear.
Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta
- Chicken Breast – Lean, juicy, and perfect for bite-sized searing.
- Salted Butter – For that rich garlic coating that defines the chicken bites.
- Garlic Cloves – Freshly minced, they infuse intense savory aroma.
- Olive Oil – Helps with even browning of the chicken and prevents burning.
- Cajun Seasoning – Brings that smoky, spicy Southern heat to the Alfredo.
- Heavy Cream – The silky base of the Alfredo sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds nuttiness and depth to the creamy sauce.
- Twisted Pasta (Tortelloni or Fusilli) – Great surface for holding onto the rich sauce.
- Chopped Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – For that optional extra kick.
How To Make the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta
Step 1: Cube and Season the Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts into even, bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, season generously with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil and half the butter. Add the chicken bites and sear until golden and fully cooked (about 6–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Boil the Pasta
In a medium saucepan, cook the twisted pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
Step 4: Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then pour in heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan and remaining Cajun seasoning. Let it simmer until thickened, adding pasta water as needed.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Toss the cooked pasta into the Alfredo sauce until fully coated. Add chicken bites back into the skillet and gently fold everything together.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, spicy comfort in every bite.
Best Way to Serve and Store This Spicy Creamy Pasta Dish
This dish shines when served immediately after cooking, while the sauce is still velvety and the chicken is juicy and warm. Plate it with a simple side salad or roasted veggies to balance the richness. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top never hurts either.
For storing leftovers, let everything cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
Freezing isn’t ideal due to the cream base, but if needed, freeze just the chicken and pasta (without the sauce) for up to 1 month.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Twisted pasta like tortelloni or fusilli is ideal because its shape holds onto the Alfredo sauce beautifully, making every bite creamy and flavorful.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce may be slightly thinner. Avoid milk alone, as it won’t give the same richness.
How spicy is this recipe?
It has a moderate Cajun heat. You can adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting the crushed red pepper flakes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written. To make it gluten-free, use your favorite GF pasta and confirm all seasonings are certified gluten-free.
Can I prep any part ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can cube and season the chicken and even pre-cook the pasta a few hours ahead. Just store them separately until you’re ready to cook.
What protein alternatives work here?
Shrimp is an excellent substitute for chicken in this recipe and cooks quickly with the same garlic butter technique.
Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?
If you’re loving this spicy, creamy combo, don’t miss out on similar favorites like the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for a skillet-friendly version with a similar kick. Or go all-in with cheese and spice in the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe, a layered delight.
For more baked comfort, check out the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti—a pasta bake with a creamy surprise.
Also worth bookmarking is the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, especially if you’re into Alfredo meets hearty beef. And if you’re craving a bold bite, the Air Fryer Crispy Honey Sriracha Chicken Bites give you another protein twist to pair with pasta or rice.
Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out
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When you make it, I’d love to hear what you think. Did you go heavier on the Cajun? Did you use shrimp instead of chicken? Leave a comment and share your twist.
And for more delicious meals, find me on Pinterest @LadyPlate where I post daily recipes and dinner ideas.
Delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Juicy garlic butter chicken bites paired with twisted pasta smothered in a spicy Cajun Alfredo sauce—this dish is pure indulgent comfort food with a fiery kick. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or when you want to impress without fuss.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, cubed
2 tbsp salted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
10 oz twisted pasta (tortelloni or fusilli)
2 tbsp chopped parsley
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cube the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp Cajun seasoning. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes.
2. In a large non-stick skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Boil twisted pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then add heavy cream.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Let simmer until thickened, adding reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
6. Add pasta to the sauce and toss until coated. Return chicken bites to skillet and fold into the mix.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and crushed red pepper flakes. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce texture.
Let the sauce simmer gently to avoid curdling the cream.
Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for added richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: chicken pasta, Cajun Alfredo, garlic butter
