Creamy, spicy, and packed with savory bites of juicy chicken, this Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites & Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta is what comfort food dreams are made of. Imagine fork-tender chicken seasoned and seared to golden perfection, paired with rich, garlicky Alfredo rotini and accented with the sweet tang of sun-dried tomatoes and a Cajun-spiced kick. Every bite delivers layers of flavor and a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy indulgence and zesty heat.

Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or wowing guests at your next gathering, this pasta dish is a total showstopper. It’s elegant enough for a special occasion but simple enough to become a weekly favorite. The fusion of Southern Cajun spice with Italian flair creates a bold and unique dish that’s as hearty as it is irresistible.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this flavor-packed recipe, it’s key to have your tools ready to streamline the process and lock in the flavors:

Large Non-Stick Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: This ensures your chicken gets that crispy golden sear while locking in juiciness. A cast iron skillet also distributes heat evenly for more consistent browning.
Medium Saucepan: Perfect for cooking your rotini pasta to al dente. A non-stick pan helps prevent sticking and overcooking.
Tongs or a Wooden Spoon: Great for flipping the chicken and tossing everything together with ease.

Microplane or Garlic Press: If you’re using fresh garlic (highly recommended), this tool helps release the most flavor.
Cheese Grater or Vegetable Peeler: For those gorgeous Parmesan shavings that add a rich, nutty finish.

Having the right tools ensures precision, flavor depth, and a smooth cooking experience from start to finish.

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

Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless): The star protein, cubed and seasoned to absorb every bit of spice and flavor.
Rotini Pasta: Ideal for capturing the Alfredo sauce in every groove. Holds the creamy goodness in every twist.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adds a chewy texture and intense tangy-sweet burst that elevates the dish.

Heavy Cream: The base of our Alfredo, making the sauce rich and luxurious.
Parmesan Cheese (shaved or grated): Adds depth, creaminess, and that classic nutty flavor.
Garlic (minced): For that irresistible, bold aroma and taste.

Olive Oil: Helps in searing the chicken and blooming the garlic flavor.
Butter: Gives the sauce a silky finish and adds richness.
Cajun Seasoning: Brings bold Southern spice and warmth to balance the creaminess.

Salt & Black Pepper: To season throughout and enhance every layer of flavor.
Chopped Parsley: A fresh garnish that lightens up the plate and adds vibrant color.

How To Make the Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites & Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Chicken Bites

Season cubed chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a hot skillet with olive oil, sear the chicken until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil rotini pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve a bit of pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Let simmer until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine the Flavors

Add sun-dried tomatoes and cooked pasta into the sauce. Toss until everything is well coated. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the seared chicken bites to the skillet and gently mix. Let it simmer for 2–3 more minutes for the flavors to marry.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley and shaved Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, Cajun-kissed magic!

Serving & Storing Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites & Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet onto your favorite dinner plates. The creamy Alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. To elevate presentation, add a few extra shavings of Parmesan on top and a sprinkle of parsley just before serving.

For storing, allow leftovers to cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat. This helps bring the sauce back to its original silky texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta works best with this recipe?

Rotini is ideal because it catches all the sauce in its grooves, but penne or fettuccine also work well if you’re in a pinch.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just make sure to season and sear it briefly in the skillet to reintroduce flavor and texture before adding to the sauce.

Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a mild Cajun kick. For more heat, increase the Cajun seasoning or add crushed red pepper flakes. For less spice, cut the Cajun seasoning in half.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce separately and combine everything just before serving. This helps preserve the creamy consistency.

What dairy-free alternatives can I use?

Swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or unsweetened almond cream. Use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast to replace cheese.

Will this freeze well?

Freezing isn’t recommended as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed. For best results, enjoy fresh or refrigerated within a few days.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites & Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta, you’ll want to try these other irresistible meals:

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for another creamy, savory twist.

One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta if you’re craving bold spice with tender steak.
Sweet Spicy Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta for a sweet and smoky Southern flair.
One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese when you want creamy comfort with crispy chicken bites.

Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce for a hearty twist with tender ground beef.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how it turned out! Did you go heavy on the Cajun? Add mushrooms or spinach? I love hearing your unique spins. Drop your questions too—let’s keep the kitchen creative together!

Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites & Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

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

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Description

A rich and comforting fusion of Cajun heat and creamy Italian Alfredo, this Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites & Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta combines tender golden-seared chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and rotini pasta tossed in a bold, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for an elegant dinner or cozy night in.