Description
A flavorful and creamy dish featuring tender Cajun-seasoned chicken bites paired with rotini pasta coated in a rich, homemade Alfredo sauce. The subtle kick from the Cajun spices combined with fresh lemon juice and parsley garnish creates a balanced, delicious meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound Chicken Breast, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated
Pasta and Garnish
- 8 ounces Rotini Pasta
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain well and reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Cook Chicken: Coat the chicken chunks evenly with Cajun seasoning. Heat a small amount of oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to warm through. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked rotini pasta directly into the Alfredo sauce. Toss well to coat evenly, allowing it to simmer together for 1 minute so the flavors meld.
- Serve: Divide the creamy Alfredo pasta among plates, top with the Cajun chicken bites, then drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting quality and flavor.
- Cajun seasoning can be adjusted to taste depending on spice preference.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Fresh lemon juice adds brightness, but can be omitted if preferred.