5 Irresistible Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Cajun Pasta

Looking for a creamy, spicy, buttery explosion in one bite? Say hello to Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta — the ultimate cozy-meets-bold dinner you didn’t know you were craving. Golden, juicy chicken bites coated in garlic butter, tossed over creamy Cajun alfredo sauce and perfectly twirled pasta. It’s rich, comforting, and packs just the right kick to keep things exciting. Ready in under 45 minutes, this dish is perfect for weeknights when you want something wow with minimal fuss.

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For the Garlic Butter Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized chunks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tsp dried parsley (for garnish)

For the Cajun Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup milk
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz twisted pasta (fusilli or rotini)
• Salt for boiling water

Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta:
   Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Chicken:
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Season chicken with paprika, salt, and pepper.
   Add chicken to skillet and sear on all sides until golden and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes).
   Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Cajun Alfredo Sauce:
   In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and olive oil. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
   Pour in heavy cream and milk, whisking to combine.
   Add Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir in Parmesan cheese and let the sauce thicken (about 4–6 minutes).
4. Combine It All:
   Add the drained pasta to the sauce. Toss until fully coated.
   Gently fold in garlic butter chicken bites. Let everything sit together for 2 minutes so the flavors marry.
5. Finish & Serve:
   Sprinkle with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, and a pinch of chili flakes for flair.
   Serve hot and devour every creamy, spicy bite!

For extra protein: Add sautéed shrimp or grilled sausage.

Need a lighter version? Use half & half and reduce the butter slightly.

This dish reheats beautifully — just add a splash of milk to bring the sauce back to life.

Not into spice? Dial back the Cajun seasoning and skip the chili flakes.

Helpful Tips

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Cut your chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to cook evenly and avoid drying it out. Sear until just golden.
• Let the sauce thicken gently: Simmer the Alfredo sauce on medium heat until it naturally thickens — rushing it on high heat can cause it to break.
• Use fresh garlic if possible: It really lifts the garlic butter flavor over pre-minced alternatives.
• Grate your own Parmesan: It melts smoother into the sauce than pre-shredded kinds and gives that creamy, luxurious finish.
• Finish with a splash of pasta water (optional): If the sauce ever feels too thick, a few tablespoons of starchy pasta water can bring it back to silky perfection.

Substitutions and Variations

• Swap the protein: Try shrimp, salmon bites, or even tofu if you’re going meatless — all pair beautifully with Cajun spices and Alfredo.
• Make it gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and check that your Cajun seasoning is GF.
• Lighten it up: Sub in half-and-half or evaporated milk for heavy cream, and use grilled chicken instead of butter-seared.
• Crank up the heat: Add a dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños if you’re a spice lover.
• Extra veggies: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for a nutrition boost.
• No Cajun seasoning? Mix 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp cayenne, ¼ tsp thyme, and a pinch of oregano.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook everything and store in an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely. Just skip the searing step and warm your pre-cooked chicken in garlic butter before adding to the pasta.

What pasta works best?
Twisted pasta like fusilli or rotini is ideal because it grabs all the creamy Cajun Alfredo in its grooves. But penne or farfalle also work great.

How spicy is it?
It’s got a mild to medium heat level — you can tone it down by reducing Cajun seasoning and skipping the chili flakes. Want more heat? Add hot sauce or cayenne!

Can I freeze it?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Just be aware that creamy sauces may slightly change texture when reheated.

More Tasty Recipes You’ll Love:

• Craving a high-protein breakfast twist? Try this fluffy and delicious Kodiak Protein Pancake Bowl — perfect for busy mornings or post-workout fuel!
• Need a grab-and-go option for your mornings? These Meal Prep Protein Pancakes are freezer-friendly, fluffy, and packed with protein to keep you going all day.
• Want even more easy high-protein meals? Check out this collection of High-Protein Recipes that are quick, satisfying, and full of flavor.