Smoky Cajun Chicken bites Rotini in Creamy Parmesan
Ingredients:
1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
3 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Parmesan Rotini:
12 oz rotini pasta
2 tbsp butter
1½ cups heavy cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Boil rotini in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
2. Cook the Cajun Chicken Bites:
Toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, tossing to coat the chicken in smoky garlic butter. Set aside and keep warm.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
In a separate skillet or cleaned pan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add cream cheese and stir until melted.
Pour in heavy cream and whisk to combine. Add Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
If needed, loosen the sauce with a bit of reserved pasta water.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked rotini into the Parmesan sauce and stir to coat.
5. Serve: Spoon pasta onto plates and top with hot Cajun chicken bites. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4 | Calories: 1,050 per serving