GARLIC PARMESAN CHICKEN BITES OVER CREAMY CAJUN TWISTED PASTA
Ingredients:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
12 oz twisted pasta (rotini, fusilli, or cavatappi)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp butter (divided)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp cream cheese (for extra richness)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Cook the Twisted Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook twisted pasta (rotini, fusilli, or cavatappi) according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water to adjust the sauce if needed.
2. Cook the Chicken Bites:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken bites with salt, pepper, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
Add chicken bites to the skillet and cook for 6–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Add cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese, stirring until smooth and fully melted. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.
4. Combine & Toss:
Return the cooked chicken bites to the skillet, followed by the cooked twisted pasta. Toss everything together in the creamy Cajun sauce until well-coated and heated through. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Serve & Garnish:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and extra Parmesan cheese for added creaminess. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 | Calories: 950 per serving