Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Lemon Cajun Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Herb Alfredo Twists

Lemon Cajun Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Herb Alfredo Twists


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Spicy, juicy Cajun chicken bites are paired with creamy, garlicky herb Alfredo-coated rotini pasta in this bold yet comforting dinner. Bright lemon zest and fresh herbs balance the richness, creating a dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party.


Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless

1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken)

8 oz rotini pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil (for sauce)

3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed

1 teaspoon Italian herb blend (or mix of parsley and basil)

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)


Instructions

1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes.

2. In a bowl, toss chicken with Cajun seasoning, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and olive oil until evenly coated.

3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for about 6–8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside covered.

4. In a pot of salted boiling water, cook rotini until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain.

5. In the same skillet, reduce heat and add olive oil. Sauté garlic and herbs for 30 seconds.

6. Add heavy cream to the skillet. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

7. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

8. Add cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the sauce. Toss to coat.

9. Plate pasta and top with chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.

Notes

Zest the lemon before juicing to avoid a struggle.

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.

Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook chicken in batches if needed to ensure it browns properly.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 610
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 590mg
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg

Keywords: cajun chicken pasta, garlic herb Alfredo, lemon chicken, creamy pasta, weeknight chicken recipe