Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists

Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists

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This recipe is all about bold flavor meeting weeknight ease. The zesty brightness of lemon pepper chicken bites gets the perfect creamy contrast from the smoky-sweet heat of roasted red pepper Cajun Alfredo pasta twists. Each bite delivers a punch of tangy spice and cozy comfort—just what you need after a long day or when hosting friends.

Whether you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, zesty chicken, or need a balanced protein-carb dinner that doesn’t feel boring, this combo nails it. The juicy chicken pieces are lightly crisped and seasoned, and the pasta brings creamy, spicy depth to the table without overwhelming your taste buds. One forkful and you’ll know why this dish deserves a permanent spot on your recipe rotation.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To pull off this restaurant-worthy dinner at home, you’ll want the right tools to make prep and cooking smooth and efficient:

  • Non-stick skillet or cast iron pan: For searing those chicken bites to golden perfection without sticking.
  • Medium saucepan: Ideal for simmering the Alfredo sauce and infusing it with roasted red pepper and Cajun flavor.
  • Pot for boiling pasta: Use a generously sized pot so your rotini or pasta twists cook evenly.
  • Tongs or spatula: Helps turn the chicken evenly and keep things moving in the pan.
  • High-powered blender or immersion blender: To create a silky, lump-free Alfredo base with the roasted red peppers.

Each of these tools ensures your cooking process stays stress-free, letting you focus on flavor and timing instead of fighting with your cookware.


Ingredients for the Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists

  • Chicken breast – Boneless, skinless chicken breast is the lean protein base that soaks up the lemon pepper seasoning beautifully.
  • Lemon pepper seasoning – The star of the show for the chicken; it brings tang and a peppery kick.
  • Olive oil – Adds moisture and helps the seasoning stick while aiding in golden browning.
  • Salted butter – Builds a rich foundation for the Alfredo sauce.
  • Heavy cream – Provides that creamy, luxurious body to the sauce.
  • Garlic cloves – Adds savory depth and aroma.
  • Roasted red peppers – These bring a smoky sweetness that elevates the Alfredo sauce into something special.
  • Cajun seasoning – A spicy, bold twist that balances the creaminess with heat.
  • Parmesan cheese – Salty, nutty, and essential to make the Alfredo thick and flavorful.
  • Rotini pasta – Twists hold the sauce well, giving you flavor in every bite.
  • Fresh parsley – Optional but perfect for garnish and a touch of green.
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How To Make the Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil and lemon pepper seasoning, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken Bites

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, flipping occasionally to get that perfect crisp on all sides. Set aside once done.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Boil your rotini pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Blend the Sauce Base

In a blender, combine roasted red peppers and a splash of heavy cream. Blend until smooth.

Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the remaining cream, stir in the red pepper blend, Cajun seasoning, and let simmer. Add Parmesan cheese and whisk until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta with the Cajun Alfredo sauce until well-coated. Plate with your lemon pepper chicken bites on top or to the side. Garnish with parsley or fresh basil.


How to Serve and Store This Flavor-Packed Dish

Serve the pasta hot, with the chicken placed generously on top or mixed in if you prefer a full bite in every forkful. Garnish with fresh herbs and maybe a little extra Parmesan for good measure.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the sauce’s creaminess.


Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly thinner and less rich.

Can I use jarred roasted red peppers?

Absolutely. They’re a time-saver and still deliver great flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat is mild to moderate, depending on your Cajun seasoning. Adjust to taste.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

You could skip the chicken and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a plant-based twist.

Can I use another pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, bowtie, or even fettuccine works well if you don’t have rotini on hand.


Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists, check out these delicious favorites from Life With Olivia:


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

Let me know how yours turned out in the comments! Did you use fresh or jarred red peppers? Did you spice up the Alfredo with extra Cajun heat?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or share your twist!


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Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists

Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists


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

Description

Bold, creamy, and satisfying—these Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites paired with Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists are the perfect fusion of zesty citrus and creamy heat. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this meal brings together juicy seasoned chicken and rich Cajun Alfredo pasta in a way that’s comforting and exciting at once.


Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bites

1 ½ tsp lemon pepper seasoning

1 tbsp olive oil

8 oz rotini pasta

2 tbsp salted butter

1 cup heavy cream

2 garlic cloves, minced

¾ cup roasted red peppers (jarred or fresh)

1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)


Instructions

1. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and toss with olive oil and lemon pepper seasoning until fully coated.

2. In a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken bites until golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Set aside.

3. Boil rotini pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve.

4. Blend roasted red peppers with a splash of heavy cream until smooth using a blender or immersion blender.

5. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

6. Add remaining cream to the pan along with the red pepper blend and Cajun seasoning. Simmer gently for 5 minutes.

7. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy and thick.

8. Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until fully coated.

9. Serve pasta with seared lemon pepper chicken on top or mixed in. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest Alfredo texture—it melts better than pre-shredded.

If the sauce thickens too much while sitting, add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to loosen it back up.

Adjust Cajun seasoning to your heat preference—start with less and build if needed.

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

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 580
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 39g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg

Keywords: lemon pepper chicken, Alfredo pasta, Cajun, easy dinner, roasted red pepper

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