Crispy Chicken Bites & Blackened Cajun Alfredo with Roasted Corn Twists

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Craving bold flavors and creamy comfort in one dish? These Crispy Chicken Bites paired with Blackened Cajun Alfredo and Roasted Corn Twists are a spicy, satisfying twist on your favorite weeknight dinner. The juicy, seared chicken bites are coated in a smoky, paprika-rich rub, while the rotini pasta is swirled in a creamy Alfredo sauce punched up with Cajun seasoning and studded with sweet roasted corn.

This dish is a guaranteed hit whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd. The richness of the Alfredo blends beautifully with the char on the chicken, creating an irresistible bite every time. If you’re the type who enjoys a creamy pasta with some edge, this one’s for you.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are best for this recipe. Thighs tend to stay juicier and have more flavor, but breasts cook faster and are leaner. The key is to cut the chicken into evenly sized bites so they cook quickly and sear evenly in the pan.

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Ingredients for the Crispy Chicken Bites & Blackened Cajun Alfredo with Roasted Corn Twists

Chicken Bites:

• Chicken breast or thighs: The protein star of the plate.
• Olive oil: Helps create a golden sear.
• Smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper: The flavor-packed spice rub that gives the chicken its smoky bite.

Cajun Alfredo Sauce:

• Butter: Forms the base of the roux.
• Garlic: Aromatic kick.
• Heavy cream: Creates a thick, rich texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty sharpness.
• Cajun seasoning: Brings the heat and depth.
• Salt and black pepper: To balance the flavor.

Pasta & Corn:

• Rotini pasta: Twists that hold onto every bit of that creamy sauce.
• Roasted corn kernels: Adds a sweet crunch that contrasts the creaminess.
• Fresh parsley: For a burst of color and freshness at the end.

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How To Make the Crispy Chicken Bites & Blackened Cajun Alfredo with Roasted Corn Twists

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Toss the cubed chicken pieces with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil your rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken bites and sear until deeply browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until it starts to bubble. Add Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened, then stir in the roasted corn.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rotini into the skillet and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta and top with the crispy chicken bites. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish and an extra dusting of Parmesan if you’d like.

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How to Serve and Store This Dish

This dish is best served hot, right after combining the pasta and sauce. The chicken bites retain their crispy edges, and the sauce is at its silkiest.

Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. For a lighter option, roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini work beautifully.

To store leftovers, place the pasta and chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s seasoned well or toss it in the Cajun spice blend before reheating so it blends with the sauce flavors.

Can I substitute the pasta?

Yes, penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine will work. Just make sure it’s a pasta that can hold onto the sauce.

Is there a dairy-free version?

You can swap the cream for coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The texture will be slightly different but still creamy.

How spicy is this recipe?

It has a noticeable kick from the Cajun spices and cayenne, but you can tone it down by adjusting the amounts or skipping the cayenne entirely.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it. Reheat gently on the stovetop with added cream to refresh the sauce texture.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for seasoned tofu or mushrooms and follow the same cooking process.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this bold and creamy pasta combo, here are a few more dishes from Life with Jam that bring comfort and flavor together:

• Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon: For seafood lovers looking for richness and herbs.
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet: Perfect for a Southern-inspired skillet meal.
• Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo: A cousin to this pasta, but with juicy steak instead.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot: An easy, hands-off dinner with bold flavor.
• Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce: A lighter bowl-style option with a creamy touch.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Jam on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go with chicken thighs or breast? Did you spice it up even more?

I love seeing your versions—feel free to share photos or ask questions. Let’s make dinner more delicious together.

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