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Crispy Parmesan Chicken Bites with Smoky Cajun Alfredo Gemelli

Crispy Parmesan Chicken Bites with Smoky Cajun Alfredo Gemelli


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Golden, crunchy Parmesan chicken bites paired with creamy smoky Cajun Alfredo gemelli pasta. A hearty, flavor-packed dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.


Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts

1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for chicken)

1 cup Panko breadcrumbs

2 large eggs, beaten

12 oz gemelli pasta

1 cup heavy cream

3 tbsp butter

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for sauce)

2 tsp Cajun seasoning

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped Salt and black pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. 1. Cut chicken breasts into small cubes. Beat eggs in a bowl. In another bowl, combine Parmesan and Panko.
  2. Dip chicken pieces in egg, then coat in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet.
  4. Fry chicken cubes until golden brown and crispy, about 4–5 minutes per side.
  5. Drain on a wire rack.
  6. Cook gemelli pasta in salted boiling water until al dente.
  7. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  8. Add cream and whisk in Parmesan until smooth.
  9. Stir in Cajun seasoning and salt.
  10. Loosen with pasta water if needed.
  11. Toss gemelli in sauce until coated.
  12. Plate with crispy chicken bites. Garnish with parsley and black pepper. Serve warm.

Notes

Use a wire rack after frying to keep chicken bites extra crispy.

For a lighter version, bake chicken at 400°F for 20 minutes instead of frying.

Add more Cajun seasoning if you prefer a bolder, spicier Alfredo sauce.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Cajun Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 610
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 720
  • Fat: 31
  • Saturated Fat: 15
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 48
  • Fiber: 3
  • Protein: 37
  • Cholesterol: 150

Keywords: chicken bites, Cajun Alfredo pasta, crispy chicken, parmesan chicken