Ready to spice up your dinner with this creamy, flavorful dish? Tender garlic butter chicken bites paired with rich and spicy Cajun Alfredo sauce tossed with twisted pasta create an irresistible meal full of bold flavors and comforting textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Flavor-packed chicken bites – Juicy chicken pieces sautéed in aromatic garlic butter for rich, savory bites.
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Creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce – A luscious blend of cream, cheese, and Cajun spices delivers a perfect kick.
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Twisted pasta perfection – The pasta shape holds sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is coated.
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Simple yet impressive – Easy to prepare with pantry staples, perfect for weeknights or special dinners.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chicken Bites
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1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
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3 tablespoons butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
For the Spicy Cajun Alfredo Sauce
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2 tablespoons butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1½ cups heavy cream
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
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¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
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12 ounces twisted pasta (fusilli, rotini, or gemelli)
directions
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Cook the pasta
Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water. -
Prepare the chicken bites
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (~1 minute). Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through (6–8 minutes). Remove chicken and set aside. -
Make the Cajun Alfredo sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency. -
Combine pasta and chicken
Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. -
Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 20 minutes
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Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Protein swaps: Use shrimp or sausage instead of chicken.
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Spice level: Adjust Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper to your heat preference.
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Cheese options: Add mozzarella or cheddar for a different cheese profile.
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Vegetable add-ins: Stir in sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
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Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
storage/reheating
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore sauce creaminess.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.
2. How spicy is this dish?
Moderately spicy; adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to taste.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes—prepare sauce separately and reheat before combining with pasta and chicken.
4. What pasta shape works best?
Twisted pasta holds the sauce well, but penne or fettuccine also work.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing creamy pasta dishes is not recommended as sauce texture may change.
6. How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer longer or add a bit more cheese to thicken.
7. Is this recipe dairy-free?
No—but you can substitute dairy-free butter, cream, and cheese alternatives.
8. Can I add vegetables?
Yes, add sautéed or roasted veggies of your choice.
9. What’s the best way to reheat without drying out?
Warm gently with added cream or broth to maintain moisture.
10. Can I make this vegan?
Use plant-based butter, cream, and cheese substitutes; swap chicken for tofu or tempeh.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta delivers a creamy, spicy, and savory dinner that’s easy to make and sure to impress. With tender chicken, bold flavors, and perfectly coated pasta, it’s a winning recipe for any night of the week.
[tasty-recipe id=”19020″]