Name: Crispy Parmesan Chicken Bites with Smoky Cajun Alfredo Gemelli
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 8 oz gemelli pasta; 2 tbsp butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce); 1 tsp Cajun seasoning; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish); Vegetable oil for frying

Golden, crunchy, and loaded with flavor, these Crispy Parmesan Chicken Bites paired with creamy Smoky Cajun Alfredo Gemelli are comfort food at its boldest. Imagine juicy chicken pieces coated in a Parmesan-panko crust, fried to irresistible crispness, and served beside spiraled gemelli pasta coated in a smoky, spicy Alfredo sauce.

This dish brings together Southern spice and Italian flair on one plate. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like weekend indulgence but is simple enough for a weeknight treat. Each bite is a mix of crunchy texture, creamy sauce, and savory seasoning—you won’t want to miss it.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Parmesan Chicken Bites with Smoky Cajun Alfredo Gemelli

Crispy Goodness: The Parmesan and panko combo delivers unbeatable crunch.
Bold Flavors: The Cajun Alfredo sauce is smoky, slightly spicy, and creamy.
Family Favorite: This combo is always a hit with both kids and adults.
Customizable: You can use any short pasta and adjust spice levels to your liking.
Comfort Food Perfection: A restaurant-quality dish you can make at home.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving in, get your kitchen prepped with these essential tools to ensure crisp bites and creamy pasta every time:

Heavy Skillet or Dutch Oven: Ideal for frying chicken evenly and holding heat.
Tongs: For flipping and transferring chicken bites without damaging the crust.
Mixing Bowls: For organizing your dredging station—flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixes.
Saucepan: Needed to craft the Cajun Alfredo sauce to velvety perfection.
Whisk: Essential for blending the Alfredo sauce smoothly.
Colander: To drain the cooked gemelli without over-softening.
Kitchen Thermometer (optional): Ensures the oil is at the ideal frying temp (around 350°F).

Having these tools at the ready will make your cooking experience smoother and ensure everything is perfectly cooked and crisp.

Ingredients for the Crispy Parmesan Chicken Bites with Smoky Cajun Alfredo Gemelli

Chicken breast: Boneless and skinless for tender bites that cook quickly.
Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick.
Panko breadcrumbs: Adds that craveable crispy crunch.
Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty flavor to the crust.
Flour: Creates the base for coating the chicken.
Eggs: Helps the coating bind and adds richness.
Garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper: Seasoning the flour mix for flavor in every bite.
Gemelli pasta: Spiraled pasta that holds sauce beautifully.
Butter: For richness in the Alfredo base.
Heavy cream: The backbone of a velvety Alfredo sauce.
Parmesan cheese (again): Blended into the sauce for depth and body.
Smoked paprika & Cajun seasoning: Key for that smoky, spicy twist.
Fresh parsley: A bright finishing touch.

How To Make the Crispy Parmesan Chicken Bites with Smoky Cajun Alfredo Gemelli

Step 1: Prep the Chicken Bites

Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and marinate in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight). This keeps them juicy and flavorful.

Step 2: Dredge and Bread

Set up your dredging station with three bowls: one with seasoned flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of panko and Parmesan. Dip chicken in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mix. Press gently to ensure a thick coating.

Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a heavy skillet to 350°F. Fry the chicken bites in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Boil the Gemelli Pasta

Cook the gemelli pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Smoky Cajun Alfredo

In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and thickened. Toss with gemelli pasta.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Plate a generous scoop of Cajun Alfredo gemelli and top or serve alongside the crispy Parmesan chicken bites. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Serving and Storing Crispy Parmesan Chicken Bites with Smoky Cajun Alfredo Gemelli

Serve hot, right after assembly, while the chicken is crispy and the pasta is creamy. A light sprinkle of fresh parsley and cracked black pepper adds that final restaurant-quality touch.

For storing: Keep the chicken bites and pasta separate if possible. Store both in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness, and warm the pasta gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream.

Freezing isn’t ideal for this dish as the sauce and coating may lose texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake the chicken bites instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 425°F on a wire rack-lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes until golden and crisp. Spray lightly with oil for better browning.

What other pasta can I use besides gemelli?

Rotini, penne, or fusilli work great because they hold onto the sauce well.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store it in the fridge and reheat gently while whisking in a splash of cream or milk.

How spicy is the Cajun Alfredo?

It has a mild to moderate kick. Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preference.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes. Use gluten-free panko and pasta, and double-check your Cajun seasoning for any hidden gluten.

Can I air fry the chicken bites?

Yes! Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. They’ll be lighter but still crispy.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you love these crispy Parmesan chicken bites with Cajun Alfredo, you might also fall for these other bold and creamy favorites:

Save This Pin For Later

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

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you make it spicier or try it with a different pasta shape? Maybe swapped in shrimp?

I love hearing how you make these dishes your own. Share your tips, tweaks, or triumphs—and don’t hesitate to ask a question!

More comfort food and flavor-packed dishes? You can find them on my Pinterest: Kitchen By Kate