Delicious Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

Delicious Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

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Imagine a plate where golden-seared chicken bites are boldly seasoned with Tuscan garlic herbs, resting next to a bed of creamy rotini pasta cloaked in sun-dried tomato Cajun Alfredo sauce. It’s the kind of comfort food that speaks with both boldness and richness, bringing together tender chicken and a flavor-packed pasta into one irresistible dish.

This is not your average weeknight dinner. It brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen without the stress. The creamy Alfredo balances spicy Cajun heat, while sun-dried tomatoes add tangy depth. Each juicy chicken bite soaks up the buttery, garlicky goodness that makes this meal feel indulgent yet vibrant.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting the most out of this recipe depends on using the right tools:

  • Cast Iron or Nonstick Skillet – Perfect for searing chicken to golden perfection and building flavor in the pan.
  • Medium Saucepan – Ideal for preparing the Alfredo sauce so it doesn’t scorch or stick.
  • Pasta Pot with Strainer – Makes boiling and draining pasta seamless, preventing overcooking.
  • Tongs or Spatula – Helps with even browning of the chicken bites.
  • Whisk – Crucial for emulsifying the Alfredo sauce and keeping it creamy.

These tools ensure the texture and flavor layers come together effortlessly, turning each component into something crave-worthy.


Ingredients for the Delicious Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a flavorful role:

  • Chicken Breast (Boneless, Skinless) – The star protein, it soaks up spices and cooks quickly while staying juicy.
  • Rotini Pasta – Its spirals hold onto the Alfredo sauce beautifully, making each bite rich and satisfying.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Provide bursts of tangy, concentrated flavor that elevate the cream sauce.
  • Heavy Cream – Gives the Alfredo its signature richness and velvety texture.
  • Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated) – Adds sharp, salty depth to the sauce, essential for a true Alfredo profile.
  • Garlic (Minced) – Infuses both the chicken and sauce with bold, aromatic flavor.
  • Olive Oil & Butter – Used to sear the chicken and start the sauce, creating a flavor base.
  • Cajun Seasoning – Brings smoky heat that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce.
  • Salt & Cracked Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning both the pasta and chicken.
  • Fresh Parsley (Chopped) – A final sprinkle for freshness and color.
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How To Make the Delicious Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Season & Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry and cut into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat a skillet with olive oil and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring salted water to a boil and cook rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later.

Step 3: Build the Alfredo Base

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cheese

Stir chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the simmering cream. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until melted and smooth. Adjust consistency with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked rotini into the Alfredo sauce until well coated. Let it simmer together for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Serve the creamy Cajun Alfredo rotini alongside or beneath the seared chicken bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and cracked pepper for a polished finish.


Best Way to Serve and Store This Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pasta

Serve this dish hot and fresh, ideally right after the sauce and pasta have had a chance to blend flavors. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a simple green salad. If you like a bit of extra kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top.

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as needed.


Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish with Cajun seasoning?

The Cajun seasoning adds a warm, smoky heat, but it’s not overwhelming. You can always reduce the amount for a milder flavor.

Can I substitute chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Thighs offer a juicier and more flavorful bite. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

What’s the best way to reheat the pasta without it drying out?

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, both the chicken and Alfredo sauce can be made a day ahead. Store them separately, then reheat and combine before serving.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to the Alfredo sauce?

You can swap heavy cream and Parmesan with full-fat coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version. It’ll be different, but still rich and flavorful.

What type of pasta can I use instead of rotini?

Fettuccine, penne, or farfalle work well too. The key is choosing a pasta shape that holds the sauce nicely.


Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Tuscan garlic chicken bites with sun-dried tomato Cajun Alfredo pasta, check out these other creative comfort food meals:


Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the Cajun heat or keep it mild? Try it with a different protein?

I love seeing how everyone makes these dishes their own. Questions are always welcome—let’s help each other cook better every day.

Find more of my daily recipe creations over on Pinterest: Life With Olivia on Pinterest


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Delicious Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

Delicious Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta recipe blends bold spices, juicy chicken, and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes. Paired with rotini pasta, it’s a comfort food masterpiece that’s both satisfying and simple to make at home.


Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless

10 oz rotini pasta

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

1 1/2 cups heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp unsalted butter

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp cracked black pepper

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

1 cup reserved pasta water (optional, for sauce consistency)


Instructions

1. Pat chicken dry and cut into bite-sized chunks. Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. Boil rotini pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

4. In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.

5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

6. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. Whisk until smooth.

7. Add cooked rotini to the sauce, toss well. Simmer for 2–3 minutes. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

8. Serve pasta on a plate and top with seared chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and cracked pepper.

Notes

Make sure your chicken is patted dry before searing—it helps develop a perfect golden crust.

Don’t skip the pasta water; it can turn a thick sauce into a silky one.

Fresh Parmesan is key—pre-shredded versions may clump and won’t melt as smoothly.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American-Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 720
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 640mg
  • Fat: 40g
  • Saturated Fat: 22g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 42g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg

Keywords: creamy pasta, chicken Alfredo, Tuscan garlic chicken

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