Description
Experience the rich flavors of Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites paired with a creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta. This 40-minute recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken with a decadent, spicy Alfredo sauce and perfectly cooked rotini, making it a delightful meal for four.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Bites
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Tuscan seasoning
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta & Sauce
- 12 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with olive oil, Tuscan seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken marinate for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Sear Chicken: Heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken bites in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Cook Pasta: In a separate pot, boil salted water and cook the rotini pasta until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce the heat of the same skillet to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant, which usually takes about 1 minute.
- Make Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Add Cheese: Incorporate the freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce, stirring continuously until it becomes creamy and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked rotini pasta into the skillet, ensuring every piece is well coated with the creamy sauce. Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Finish with Chicken: Return the seared chicken bites to the skillet to rewarm and blend flavors, or serve them on the side if preferred.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving to add a fresh and savory finish.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the Cajun seasoning amount slightly.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and smooth texture.
- Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil can add more richness; drain before using if necessary.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute rotini pasta with a gluten-free alternative.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out the sauce.
