Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists

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Imagine tender, golden-browned chicken bites coated in zesty lemon pepper seasoning, paired with rotini pasta swirled in a creamy roasted red pepper Cajun Alfredo sauce. This dish balances bright citrusy heat with rich, smoky creaminess, creating a meal that feels both comforting and exciting.

Perfect for weeknights yet elegant enough for guests, these chicken bites are pan-seared to perfection, locking in flavor, while the pasta soaks up every drop of that velvety sauce. The basil garnish adds a fresh, fragrant pop to bring it all together.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Dish?

Rotini is a favorite here because its spiral grooves cling beautifully to the creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce. However, penne or cavatappi also make excellent options for catching that bold roasted red pepper flavor.

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Ingredients for the Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists

• Chicken breast – Lean, tender, and perfect for absorbing seasoning.
• Lemon pepper seasoning – Adds a bright, zesty kick with a peppery edge.
• Olive oil – Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
• Butter – Enhances richness and balances the spice.
• Rotini pasta – Holds onto the sauce for every flavorful bite.
• Heavy cream – Creates a luscious Alfredo base.
• Roasted red peppers – Sweet, smoky, and perfect for blending into the sauce.
• Cajun seasoning – Brings warmth, spice, and depth.
• Garlic – Adds savory aroma to the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese – Thickens and enriches the Alfredo.
• Fresh basil – A fragrant garnish to brighten the dish.

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How To Make the Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry, then toss with lemon pepper seasoning to coat evenly. This helps the seasoning stick and intensifies flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken Bites

Heat olive oil and a small amount of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces in a single layer, cooking until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In a separate pot, cook rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Make the Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in diced roasted red peppers and Cajun seasoning, cooking for 1–2 minutes.

Pour in heavy cream, bringing to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan until melted and sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If needed, use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency. Top with chicken bites and fresh basil. Serve immediately.

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Serving and Storing Your Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists

Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet, with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few basil leaves for garnish. Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread to make it a hearty meal.

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s silky texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the roasted red pepper Cajun Alfredo sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before tossing with pasta.

Is there a dairy-free option?

You can substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative for a rich, non-dairy sauce.

How spicy is this dish?

The Cajun seasoning adds mild to moderate heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

Can I freeze leftovers?

While you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately, cream-based sauces may change texture after freezing. Fresh is always best for this recipe.

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Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists, you might also enjoy these flavorful creations:

• Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo for a rich twist with tender steak strips.
• Rattlesnake Pasta if you like bold spice with creamy indulgence.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a weeknight-friendly comfort dish.
• Red Pepper Rigatoni for more roasted pepper magic.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a veggie-packed, cheesy pasta.

For more of my favorite recipes, check out my Pinterest board, Life with Jam.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s ready whenever you need a quick, flavorful meal idea.

I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you stick with lemon pepper or try another seasoning? Did you go heavy on the Cajun spice? Share your variations in the comments—let’s swap tips and make every pasta night unforgettable.

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