Description

This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta recipe offers a flavorful and creamy pasta dish with tender chicken seasoned with smoked paprika and Cajun spices. The twisted pasta is coated in a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce with a spicy kick from Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes, making for a comforting yet zesty meal perfect for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

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

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)

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Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the twisted pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the chicken bites: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chicken pieces along with smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm.
Make the Cajun Alfredo sauce: Using the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly until aromatic, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, Cajun seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Toss pasta in the sauce: Add the cooked pasta back to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy, spicy sauce.
Serve the dish: Plate the sauced pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken bites. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
For a lower-fat version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream, but expect a slightly less rich sauce.
Use fresh garlic for best flavor; garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch but reduce quantity to avoid overpowering taste.
Ensure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.