Description
This Garlic Chicken Bites & Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta recipe is a flavorful fusion of crispy chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and bold Cajun spices. Featuring spinach, artichokes, and parmesan, this creamy chicken pasta is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining. A one-pan pasta dish that’s indulgent, spicy, and satisfying.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
2 cups baby spinach
1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
1. Cut the chicken breasts into small chunks. Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Toss to coat evenly, then press into panko breadcrumbs to form a crisp coating.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken pieces for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Set aside.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
4. In the same pan used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Cajun seasoning and parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
6. Add spinach and artichokes to the sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted and well incorporated.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency if needed.
8. Top with garlic chicken bites, an extra sprinkle of parmesan, and more Cajun seasoning if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crispy chicken, let the breaded pieces rest for 5 minutes before frying.
Add more Cajun seasoning if you love a stronger, spicier kick.
Always grate parmesan fresh for the best melt and flavor in your Alfredo sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-Italian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 1/4 of total)
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 165mg