Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for a delightful outcome. Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

For the Chicken Bites:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Spicy Cajun Alfredo Pasta:

• 12 oz twisted pasta (fusilli or rotini)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1.5 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, adjust to taste
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions

Follow these steps to whip up your Garlic Butter Chicken Bites and Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta:

• Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the twisted pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Step 2: In a large skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chicken bites, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
• Step 3: In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer, then whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until the sauce is thick and creamy. Stir in Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes, adjusting seasoning to your taste. Season with salt and pepper.
• Step 4: Add cooked twisted pasta to the skillet with the spicy Alfredo sauce. Toss well to coat all pasta with the creamy, cheesy, spicy sauce.
• Step 5: Return chicken bites to the skillet and toss gently to combine. Let everything warm together for 2 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

FAQs

• Can I use other proteins instead of chicken? Yes, shrimp or sausage can also work great in this recipe!
• How can I make this dish vegetarian? Substitute chicken with tofu or use sautéed vegetables instead.
• Can I prepare the sauce in advance? Yes, you can make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
• Is this dish spicy? It has a mild kick from the Cajun seasoning; you can adjust it to your taste preference.
• How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta is a fantastic dish that combines savory and spicy flavors with a delightful creamy pasta. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With easily adjustable spice levels and a straightforward cooking process, it’s bound to satisfy everyone at the table. Try it out and enjoy a satisfying meal that brings warmth and flavor to your dining experience!