If you love creamy pasta with a kick and crave tender chicken bites, this no garlic butter chicken bites with spicy Cajun Alfredo twisted pasta recipe is the perfect one-pan solution. Designed for garlic-sensitive eaters, this dish skips the garlic while still delivering bold, savory flavor with a Cajun-inspired twist.
This creamy Alfredo-style pasta uses a spicy seasoning blend, juicy seared chicken bites, and twisted pasta shapes that hold sauce beautifully. It’s a satisfying and impressive dinner that comes together in under 45 minutes — perfect for weeknights or easy entertaining.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 4 people.
For the Chicken Bites
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Spicy Cajun Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 and ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 10 ounces twisted pasta (such as rotini or fusilli)
- 1 tablespoon salt for pasta water
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed to loosen the sauce)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 to 45 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the twisted pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
- While the pasta cooks, season the chicken bites with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken bites in a single layer and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking to create a smooth sauce.
- Add Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese is melted and sauce is thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until coated with the Cajun Alfredo sauce.
- If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Return the cooked chicken bites to the pan and toss gently to combine.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad or sautéed green beans for a balanced meal.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or sprinkle of chili flakes for brightness and extra heat.
- Pair with iced tea or a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for a refreshing contrast.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 4 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 580 |
| Protein | 35 grams |
| Total Fat | 28 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 14 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 45 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugars | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 610 milligrams |
Key Nutritional Takeaways:
- High in protein from chicken and Parmesan, keeping you full and satisfied
- Rich and creamy, but without garlic for sensitive stomachs
- Spicy yet balanced, thanks to Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes
- Twisted pasta holds sauce well for better flavor in every bite
Variations to Try
- Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood version.
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to incorporate vegetables.
- Make it dairy-free with a plant-based cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not overcook the chicken — sear just until golden and cooked through.
- Whisk the sauce constantly to avoid clumping.
- Avoid skipping the reserved pasta water — it can help create the perfect sauce consistency.
- Be mindful of salt levels if your Cajun seasoning contains added sodium.
This no garlic butter chicken bites with spicy Cajun Alfredo twisted pasta recipe is a bold and satisfying dish for those who want rich, comforting flavor without relying on garlic. With juicy chicken, a creamy and spicy sauce, and perfectly twisted pasta, it brings together the best of Southern comfort and Italian-inspired creaminess in a fast, flavorful meal.
It is perfect for family dinners, weekend indulgence, or impressing guests — all without turning on the oven or using complicated ingredients.