If you’re on the hunt for a dinner recipe that’s bold, creamy, and guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta is calling your name! Imagine juicy, golden chicken tossed in buttery garlic goodness and paired with a luscious, spicy Alfredo sauce that clings to each twist of pasta. It’s the ideal meal for a busy weeknight when you want flavor without the fuss. Did you know that Cajun spices originally hail from Louisiana’s melting-pot cuisine, delivering that perfect touch of southern warmth? Much like my Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, this recipe brings big flavors to your table in very little time. Give it a try, fall in love, and don’t forget to check out my other easy pasta dinners—you might just find your next go-to!
What is Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta?
Let’s talk about a name that’s fun to say as it is to eat! Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta might be a mouthful (pun intended), but every syllable promises something delicious. Ever wondered if you could combine juicy, garlic-kissed chicken and a creamy, tangy, slightly spicy pasta in just one bowl? Here’s proof that you can! Maybe “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but with this dish, you’ll win over the whole family. Ready to surprise your taste buds and impress your dinner guests? Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Why You’ll Love This
This recipe is all about big, comforting flavors—juicy chicken bites seared in garlic butter, tossed into a creamy, spicy Cajun Alfredo sauce, and swirled with fun, twisted pasta shapes. Making this at home will not only satisfy your takeout cravings, but also help you save money and control exactly what goes into your food (say goodbye to mystery ingredients!). Parmesan, mozzarella, and a hint of Cajun heat make every bite interesting and utterly irresistible. If you like my Spicy Cajun Shrimp Alfredo, you’ll be obsessed with this chicken twist. Skill level: easy, deliciousness level: through the roof. Don’t wait—grab those ingredients and make it tonight!
How to Make
Quick Overview
This dish is a game-changer for any busy night. It’s simple to prepare—think seared chicken, a quick creamy sauce, and pasta all coming together in less than 40 minutes. That creamy Cajun Alfredo brings restaurant-worthy flavor, while the garlic butter chicken gives every forkful a hearty, savory bite. You’ll be amazed at just how satisfying it is to assemble such a beautiful, filling meal in a single skillet. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter (for chicken bites)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (for chicken bites)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz twisted pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for Alfredo sauce)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (for Alfredo sauce)
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step
- Prep the Chicken:
Pat dry and season the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. - Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet in the last 2 minutes, tossing well. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Cook the Pasta:
While chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add twisted pasta (fusilli or rotini) and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside. - Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet (keep the tasty bits!), melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. - Add Cheeses and Seasonings:
Gradually whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (more for extra heat) and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning. - Combine Everything:
Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat in the sauce. Return the chicken bites to the pan with any juices. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until creamy. - Serve:
Transfer to plates or a large serving bowl. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if you like. Serve hot and enjoy!
What to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta With
This main dish pairs beautifully with warm, crusty garlic bread to mop up any extra sauce. A crisp, fresh green salad adds brightness and crunch to the plate. For something lighter, try steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus on the side. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or iced lemonade rounds out the meal perfectly. Want an appetizer? Start with a simple Caprese salad or bruschetta for a touch of freshness.
Top Tips for Perfecting
- If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and a dash of cayenne.
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for an easy protein twist.
- Don’t overcook your pasta—al dente ensures it holds up in the sauce.
- Let the Alfredo sauce simmer gently; avoid boiling or it may separate.
- Reserved pasta water helps loosen a thick sauce and adds extra silkiness.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream (sauce will be a bit less rich but still delicious).
- Always taste your dish before serving to adjust salt and seasoning, especially with Cajun blends that can vary in heat.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. If freezing, portion into individual containers and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. If microwaving, cover and use 50 percent power to avoid overcooking the chicken or separating the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti work well if you don’t have twisted pasta on hand.
Is this dish spicy?
You control the heat! Add more or less Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, store pasta and sauce separately and combine when reheating.
What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half works for a lighter sauce, or use unsweetened evaporated milk in a pinch.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw?
Definitely—just skip the sauté step and toss shredded rotisserie chicken in the garlic butter before adding to the pasta.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta is a true keeper. It’s loaded with juicy, garlicky chicken, perfectly twirled noodles, and the creamiest Cajun-infused sauce. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this is the kind of dish people remember. Best of all, it’s simple, quick, and infinitely customizable—just the way homemade dinners should be. Ready to spice up your weeknight rotation? Grab your skillet and dig in! Don’t forget to explore my other easy pasta recipes for even more inspiration. Happy cooking!
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Large Pot
Ingredients
Chicken Bites
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter for chicken bites
- 4 cloves garlic minced for chicken bites
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta
- 12 oz twisted pasta fusilli or rotini
Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter for Alfredo sauce
- 3 cloves garlic minced for Alfredo sauce
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for extra heat
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Pat dry and season the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet in the last 2 minutes, tossing well. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- While chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add twisted pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat in the sauce. Return the chicken bites to the pan with any juices. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until creamy.
- Transfer to plates or a large serving bowl. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if you like. Serve hot and enjoy!
1 comment
Really nice. VERY rich, but so much flavour!