Description

Golden, crunchy Parmesan chicken bites meet creamy, smoky Cajun Alfredo tossed with gemelli pasta—this comfort food recipe is bold, hearty, and perfect for weeknight indulgence or weekend hosting.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 eggs

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

8 oz gemelli pasta

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, preferably refrigerated.

2. Prepare three bowls for dredging: flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and a mix of panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third.

3. Remove chicken from marinade and coat in flour, then eggs, then breadcrumb mixture.

4. Fry chicken bites in hot oil (350°F) until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

5. Cook gemelli pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain.

6. In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in Cajun seasoning and paprika.

7. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water. Mix until creamy.

8. Toss cooked gemelli in the sauce. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

9. Serve pasta alongside crispy chicken bites. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

Make sure your oil stays around 350°F for an even golden crust—use a thermometer if needed.

To reheat the Alfredo pasta, use a splash of milk or cream and stir gently on the stovetop.

Air frying the chicken is a great lighter option and still delivers crisp results.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Pan-Fried & Boiled
Cuisine: American-Cajun Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 750
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 710
Fat: 45
Saturated Fat: 18
Unsaturated Fat: 24
Trans Fat: 1
Carbohydrates: 49
Fiber: 2
Protein: 37
Cholesterol: 165

Keywords: chicken bites, cajun pasta, alfredo gemelli, crispy parmesan, comfort food