Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini

Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini

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Ever crave a dinner that’s creamy, garlicky, and just a little bit fiery? These Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites, bathed in a luscious Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo sauce and paired with smoky charred broccolini, are comfort food with a gourmet twist.

Imagine juicy seared chicken bites smothered in silky sauce, infused with sun-dried tomato sweetness, Cajun spice, and the nutty richness of Parmesan. On the side, tender-crisp broccolini, charred for depth and drama. It’s a plate that satisfies your senses in every way — quick enough for weeknights, elegant enough for guests.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

  • Cast-Iron Skillet – Holds high heat for a beautiful chicken sear.
  • Tongs – For easy flipping of chicken and broccolini without damaging their surface.
  • Saucepan – To build your Cajun Alfredo without scorching dairy.
  • Microplane Grater – Ensures your Parmesan melts smoothly into the sauce.
  • Cutting Board & Sharp Knife – For even chicken bites and finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes.

Having these on hand helps you control texture, avoid overcooking, and deliver both flavor and presentation like a pro.


Ingredients for Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini

  • Chicken Breast – Lean protein that sears beautifully for tender, juicy bites.
  • Olive Oil – Enhances searing and adds a subtle fruitiness.
  • Garlic Cloves – Brings that unmistakable aromatic depth.
  • Parmesan Cheese – Adds creamy, nutty richness to the sauce.
  • Heavy Cream – The base of our Alfredo, creating silky body.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Sweet-tart bursts that complement Cajun spices.
  • Cajun Seasoning – Delivers gentle heat and bold flavor.
  • Butter – For velvety sauce texture and a touch of indulgence.
  • Broccolini – Offers a bright, slightly bitter counterpoint to the creamy sauce.
  • Salt & Pepper – Simple but essential for balancing flavors.
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How To Make Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini

Step 1: Sear the Chicken Bites

Pat chicken breast pieces dry, season generously with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Char the Broccolini

In the same skillet, add broccolini with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook until vibrant green and charred in spots, about 5 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

Step 3: Build the Cajun Alfredo Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, whisking gently. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth, seasoning with Cajun spice to taste.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

Return chicken to the skillet, pouring sauce over the top. Toss gently to coat. Serve alongside broccolini, letting sauce pool slightly for dipping.


Serving and Storing Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini

Serve the chicken bites hot, with broccolini arranged alongside or slightly overlapping for a restaurant-style presentation. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan can add a final flourish. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or buttered noodles to soak up the extra sauce.

For storing, allow leftovers to cool completely before placing them in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to keep the sauce from separating. Add a splash of cream or broth if needed to restore creaminess.


Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is the Cajun Alfredo sauce?

It has a moderate kick, but you can adjust the spice by adding more or less Cajun seasoning to suit your taste.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Thighs are juicier and add even more flavor, but they may take slightly longer to cook through.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half can work for a lighter version, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before combining with the chicken.

Is broccolini essential?

No, but its mild bitterness balances the rich sauce beautifully. You can substitute with asparagus or green beans.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat moderate and whisk constantly when adding the cream and Parmesan.


Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this creamy Cajun twist, you might enjoy my Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli for a pasta-based spin. For something baked and hearty, check out Buffalo Chicken Lasagna with a spicy-cheesy kick.

Lighter cravings? My Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta offer the same comforting flavors in bite-sized form. Or try the Spicy Honey Sriracha Chicken with Noodles for sweet heat.

For more recipes and daily kitchen inspiration, follow me on Pinterest LadyPlate.


Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

Save this to your chicken dinner board for an easy weeknight winner. Just hit the Pin button.

When you make it, I’d love to hear: did you keep it mild, or go bold with the Cajun spice? Did you char the broccolini or swap in another veggie? Drop a comment below and let’s talk kitchen wins.


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Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini

Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini


  • Author: Julia Koch
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Tender seared chicken bites in a creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan, served alongside charred broccolini for a balanced, flavorful meal that’s as elegant as it is easy.


Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tbsp olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

1 cup heavy cream

1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

2 tbsp butter

8 oz broccolini

1/2 tsp salt (plus more to taste)

1/4 tsp black pepper


Instructions

1. Pat chicken dry, season with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.

2. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high; sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add broccolini with a drizzle of olive oil; cook until vibrant green and lightly charred, about 5 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, sauté until fragrant.

5. Pour in heavy cream, whisk gently; stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with Cajun spice, salt, and pepper.

6. Return chicken to the skillet, pour sauce over, and toss gently to coat. Serve with charred broccolini.

Notes

Keep heat moderate when adding cream and cheese to avoid curdling.

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded.

For extra depth, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before making the sauce.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Fusion (Italian-Cajun)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 135mg

Keywords: garlic parmesan chicken, cajun alfredo, sun-dried tomato chicken, broccolini

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