Why I Love This Recipe

I love the contrast in this dish—the juicy, garlicky chicken bites paired with the creamy, spicy Cajun Alfredo is a combination that always hits the spot. The pasta holds the sauce beautifully, and the Cajun seasoning gives just the right kick without being overwhelming. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but still comes together quickly enough for a weeknight. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—I always get requests for seconds.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

For the Spicy Cajun Alfredo Pasta:

8 oz twisted pasta (fusilli, rotini, or cavatappi)
2 tablespoons butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1–2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)

Directions

I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the twisted pasta according to the package instructions. I drain it and set it aside.
While the pasta cooks, I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then add it to the pan.
I cook the chicken bites for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Then I lower the heat and add the butter and garlic. I stir until the butter is melted and the chicken is coated in garlic butter. I remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same pan, I melt another 2 tablespoons of butter. I sauté the garlic for 30 seconds, then pour in the heavy cream.
I let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning. I season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Once the sauce thickens slightly, I stir in the cooked pasta until it’s fully coated.
I return the garlic butter chicken bites to the skillet and toss everything together gently.
I garnish with parsley if I want to add a fresh pop of color, then serve warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes roughly 30 minutes from start to finish—10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. It’s ideal for a flavorful weeknight meal or a casual dinner with friends.

Variations

I like using shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist, or adding bell peppers and spinach for extra color and texture. Sometimes I make the Alfredo sauce with a mix of cream and cream cheese for an even richer version. For a lower-carb version, I swap the pasta with zucchini noodles or cooked spaghetti squash.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm everything in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too, but I do it in short intervals and stir frequently to keep the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, I’ve made it with rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken—just heat it in the garlic butter to infuse flavor before adding to the pasta.

What type of pasta works best?

I like twisted shapes like fusilli, rotini, or cavatappi because they hold the sauce well. Penne or fettuccine also work great.

How spicy is the Cajun Alfredo?

It depends on the Cajun seasoning and whether I add red pepper flakes. I usually start with 1 teaspoon and add more if I want it spicier.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, I use a dairy-free cream and plant-based butter, and skip or use vegan Parmesan. The texture changes a bit, but it still tastes great.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

I prefer making it fresh, but I sometimes prep the chicken and even make the sauce ahead. I store them separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta is a bold, creamy, and comforting dish I love making when I want something hearty with a little heat. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, impressive enough for guests, and always a hit at the table. Whether I’m craving pasta or want a flavorful chicken dinner, this one always delivers.

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta

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Author: Mia
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4–6

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Description

Juicy garlic butter chicken meets creamy Cajun Alfredo pasta in this bold, flavor-packed dish. A perfect dinner idea that’s rich, spicy, and unforgettable.

Instructions

Cook Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook twisted pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season chicken with paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken to the skillet and sear for 4–5 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
Reduce heat to medium, add butter and garlic, stirring to coat the chicken in the garlic butter.
Cook for 1–2 more minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Make Spicy Cajun Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened.
Taste and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Combine:
Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat. Return chicken bites to the skillet.
Mix everything well until heated through. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice level—start with less and build up.

You can swap twisted pasta for penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape.

Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach for more veggies.

Leftovers reheat well—add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop / Sauté
Cuisine: American / Cajun-Inspired