Description
Golden-crisp chicken bites meet creamy Cajun Alfredo pasta in this mouthwatering dinner idea. This easy dinner is perfect for weeknights when you want something fast yet unforgettable. The crispy Parmesan coating adds a satisfying crunch, while the gemelli pasta soaks up every drop of the smoky Alfredo sauce. Whether you're hunting for quick dinner ideas, comfort food, or a flavorful twist on Alfredo, this recipe delivers bold flavor and satisfying texture in every bite.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for coating)
2 large eggs
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
8 oz gemelli pasta
1 tbsp chopped chives or parsley (optional)
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
1. Cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and ½ tsp Cajun seasoning.
2. Set up three bowls: flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, panko mixed with grated Parmesan in the third.
3. Coat each chicken piece in flour, then egg, then the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix. Press to help it stick.
4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken bites in batches for 5–7 minutes until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gemelli pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
6. In a skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning.
7. Add heavy cream and simmer 3–5 minutes. Stir in Parmesan until smooth. Add pasta water to loosen if needed.
8. Toss cooked pasta into the Alfredo sauce until fully coated.
9. Plate the pasta and top with crispy chicken bites. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired.
10. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor—pre-shredded won’t give the same creamy finish.
For extra crispy chicken, fry in small batches and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the Alfredo’s texture—it makes it silkier and helps the sauce cling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: crispy chicken bites, Alfredo gemelli, easy dinner, quick pasta, Cajun chicken pasta