Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta is one of those magical meals that turns a regular night into something special. The first time I made it, I didn’t plan much I just had chicken, some pasta, cream, and a craving for something cozy. The result? Buttery, garlicky chicken with a little Cajun kick nestled into creamy pasta spirals that soak up every bit of sauce. We sat down to dinner, and there was silence… except for the sound of forks scraping plates clean.
Since that night, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta has become my go-to comfort meal. It’s rich, spicy, cheesy, and honestly feels like a warm hug on a cold day. My kids ask for it weekly. My husband calls it “restaurant-worthy.” I just call it magic in a pan.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Cutting Board
- Chef’s Knife
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breast 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
For the Sauce and 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
- 0.5 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the twisted pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chicken to the skillet along with smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté briefly.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, additional Cajun seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
- Return the garlic butter chicken to the skillet and gently mix to combine. Let everything heat through for 1–2 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
One of my kitchen truths: any dish that combines butter, garlic, and cheese is already halfway to happiness.
Why Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta Is Always a Win
Let’s be real this isn’t just another pasta recipe. Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta is the kind of dish that gets talked about long after dinner ends. Here’s why:
- It’s got layers of flavor garlicky butter, creamy Cajun Alfredo, and that irresistible golden-brown chicken.
- It works on busy weeknights and as a “show-off” dish when friends come over.
- It’s made with ingredients you probably already have.
- And the best part? Everyone loves it no matter their age.
Anna’s tip: Don’t skimp on the Cajun seasoning. It’s what makes the Alfredo sing!
What You’ll Need to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta
These ingredients are simple, but together they create something seriously delicious. Here’s what goes into Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta, and why I love them:
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken, cut into bites. Breast or thigh use what you love.
- Butter: 3 tablespoons to cook the chicken, and 2 more for the sauce. Butter = flavor.
- Garlic: 4 cloves for the chicken, 3 for the sauce. Double garlic means double happiness.
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon for a smoky edge that makes the chicken sing.
- Cajun Seasoning: 2 teaspoons total (1 for chicken, 1 for the sauce), but adjust to taste.
- Salt & Pepper: Always season along the way.
- Twisted Pasta: 12 oz of rotini or fusilli. Twirls help trap the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: 1.5 cups don’t sub it out if you want full richness.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated fresh for the best melt.
- Mozzarella: 1/2 cup for stretch and creamy texture.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but I like a little kick.
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish it adds color and freshness.
You can absolutely add a handful of spinach at the end if you want to sneak in some greens. I’ve done it more than once when trying to balance all the creaminess.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta (Step by Step)
Here’s how I make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta come to life in under an hour:
Boil the pasta
Cook the twisted pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set it aside don’t rinse, because that starchy coating helps the sauce stick.
More recipes I love: The Enchirito That Grandma Asked For Twice
Sauté the chicken
In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Then add your chicken, paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully done. Remove the chicken from the pan and keep it warm.
Make the Cajun Alfredo sauce
In the same pan, melt the remaining butter. Add garlic and cook briefly. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, the second teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Keep stirring until everything melts and the sauce thickens to your liking.
Bring it all together
Add your drained pasta to the sauce, tossing gently so every curve is coated in creamy, spicy goodness. Fold the chicken back in and let everything heat through for a couple more minutes.
Garnish and serve
Top with chopped parsley and, if you’re like me, a little extra Parmesan on top. Serve hot and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds.
This is one of those dishes that actually gets better the next day if you have leftovers, that is!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta
I usually serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta in wide, shallow bowls with garlic bread or roasted veggies on the side. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Garlic knots or crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.
- A simple salad with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing bite.
- Roasted broccoli or green beans to add some crunch and color.
It’s filling on its own, but the extras make it feel like a full-on comfort food feast.
On chilly nights, I like to light a candle and serve this dish in deep bowls with a sprinkle of smoked paprika t’s the kind of meal that turns a regular evening into a cozy memory.
FAQ
Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
Yes! Shrimp works beautifully here, or go meatless with roasted mushrooms or crispy tofu.
Can I make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta ahead of time?
Definitely. Cook the components, store them separately, then combine and reheat just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce smooth.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze in single portions, then thaw in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stove.
How do I make it lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of cream, skip the mozzarella, and try whole grain pasta. Still comforting just a bit lighter.
The Pasta Dish That Keeps Everyone Coming Back
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s comforting, flavorful, and totally satisfying, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta is it. It’s become part of our family routine, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your home, too.
There’s just something about the spicy Cajun Alfredo wrapped around buttery chicken bites and twirly pasta that feels like love in a bowl.
More recipes I love: Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe
If you give it a try, tag me I’d love to see your version of Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta. And if your family licks the bowl like mine does? Well, welcome to the club.
Happy cooking,
Anna 💛
