Name: Maple Chicken Bites with Spiced Alfredo and Crispy Brussels
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1⁄3 cup maple syrup; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon butter (for searing); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon butter (for Alfredo sauce); 1⁄2 cup reserved pasta water; 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1⁄2 teaspoon sea salt; Optional: chopped parsley, red pepper flakes for garnish

Crispy, tender, and dripping in sweet heat, these Maple Garlic Chicken Bites are the kind of dinner you’ll crave all week long. Coated in a glossy maple garlic glaze, each bite delivers the perfect balance of sticky-sweet and savory richness. Pair that with a bold and creamy Spicy Cajun Alfredo sauce and a side of crackly roasted Brussels sprouts with a twist, and you’ve got a flavor-packed trio that checks all the boxes: comforting, craveable, and weeknight-worthy.

This dish is ideal for when you want something a little extra special without a mountain of effort. The chicken bites are pan-seared for max crisp, the Alfredo gets a smoky Cajun kick, and the Brussels sprouts? Roasted until the edges caramelize and crisp up like chips. Whether you’re serving this for a cozy dinner, impressing guests, or treating yourself on a Tuesday night, it’s a total win.

What Makes These Maple Garlic Chicken Bites So Addictive?

It’s all in the glaze: real maple syrup, loads of fresh garlic, and just enough vinegar and soy sauce to cut the sweetness. The chicken itself is seared in a hot pan so it gets that gorgeous golden crust, locking in juices and flavor. And then, when tossed in that sticky maple garlic glaze? Pure magic.

The creamy Cajun Alfredo balances the sweetness with heat and richness, making every bite feel indulgent but not over the top. As for the Brussels sprouts, they’re not just a side—they’re a crispy, salty, addictive companion to the saucy, tender bites.

Ingredients for the Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo & Crispy Brussels Twists

Chicken Thighs – Juicy, quick-cooking, and perfect for soaking up the glaze.

Maple Syrup – Brings the sweetness and helps create that signature sticky coating.

Fresh Garlic – A key flavor component; don’t skimp on it.

Soy Sauce – Adds umami depth and balances the sweetness.

Apple Cider Vinegar – Cuts through the syrup and adds tang.

Cajun Seasoning – For that smoky heat in the Alfredo.

Heavy Cream – Forms the base of the rich, velvety sauce.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds saltiness and body to the Alfredo.

Fettuccine or Pasta of Choice – To catch all that spicy creamy sauce.

Brussels Sprouts – Halved and roasted for caramelized edges.

Olive Oil + Sea Salt – To crisp and season the sprouts.

Butter – Helps sear the chicken and enrich the sauce.

How To Make the Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo & Crispy Brussels Twists

Step 1: Sear the Chicken Bites

Cut boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add butter. Once sizzling, add chicken pieces in a single layer and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Maple Garlic Glaze

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add more butter, then stir in minced fresh garlic. Cook just until fragrant. Add maple syrup, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer until it thickens slightly, about 2–3 minutes. Return the chicken bites to the skillet and toss to coat in the sticky glaze. Let it bubble for another minute to fully coat.

Step 3: Roast the Crispy Brussels Twists

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Halve the Brussels sprouts and toss with olive oil and sea salt. Spread them cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 20–25 minutes or until edges are deeply golden and crisp. Optional: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or parmesan shavings at the end for extra flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the Brussels roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your fettuccine or pasta of choice until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 5: Make the Spicy Cajun Alfredo

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in Cajun seasoning and let it bloom for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and let melt. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun spice.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta with the spicy Cajun Alfredo sauce. Serve with maple garlic chicken bites on top or alongside, and add a generous portion of crispy Brussels sprouts. Garnish with chopped parsley or red pepper flakes for a final touch.

How to Serve and Store Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo & Crispy Brussels Twists

To serve, layer a bed of spicy Cajun Alfredo pasta on each plate, then top with those glossy maple garlic chicken bites. Scatter a handful of crispy Brussels sprouts on the side—or right on top if you’re feeling bold. A sprinkle of parsley or red pepper flakes adds a pop of color and heat. This dish works beautifully for a cozy weeknight meal, but it also makes a killer dinner party centerpiece.

Leftovers? Store chicken, pasta, and Brussels sprouts separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat pasta gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk. The chicken reheats best in a skillet to keep that glaze sticky and vibrant. For Brussels sprouts, pop them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is the Cajun Alfredo sauce?

It has a gentle kick, thanks to Cajun seasoning. You can always dial it down (or up!) by adjusting the amount of seasoning or adding crushed red pepper.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, though thighs stay juicier and more flavorful. If using breast, be careful not to overcook.

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

Honey is a good substitute, but it will be a bit sweeter and less complex. A touch of brown sugar plus a bit of water can work in a pinch.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Absolutely. Cook everything ahead and store separately. It reheats beautifully, especially if you reheat components with care.

Can I make the sauce dairy-free?

Yes—use full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and swap in nutritional yeast for the Parmesan.

What pasta works best?

Fettuccine is a great choice, but penne or rigatoni also hold up well to the thick Cajun Alfredo.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re into these Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo, here are a few other crave-worthy meals you’ll want to try next:

• Balsamic Honey Chicken Thighs with Carrot Mash – For a savory-sweet combo with earthy depth.
• Crispy Orange Chicken Tenders with Coconut Rice – A citrusy, tropical spin on classic comfort.
• Creamy Chicken Piccata with Gnocchi – Briny, rich, and weeknight-easy.
• Sticky Chili Garlic Chicken over Sesame Noodles – For a sweet-heat Asian fusion vibe.
• Buttery Garlic Herb Chicken with Roasted Veggie Orzo – Balanced and hearty with herby charm.

Find them all and more in the Chicken Recipes section on Life with Jam.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s always a click away: Life with Jam Pinterest Recipes

Let me know how it went for you in the comments! Did you lean into the heat or keep it mild? Any twists with the pasta or the glaze?

Your feedback helps others—and I love seeing how you make these meals your own. Questions, swaps, or rave reviews are always welcome.

Maple Chicken Bites with Spiced Alfredo and Crispy Brussels

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Description

Sticky-sweet Maple Garlic Chicken Bites tossed in a bold glaze, served over creamy Spicy Cajun Alfredo pasta, and paired with crispy roasted Brussels sprouts. This trio hits every flavor note—from spicy to sweet to umami—and is perfect for both cozy nights in and flavorful meal prep.

Instructions

1. Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.

2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter and sear chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked, about 4–5 minutes per side. Set aside.

3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic; cook until fragrant.

4. Stir in maple syrup, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer until thickened (2–3 minutes), then toss the chicken in the glaze. Let bubble for 1 more minute.

5. Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil and sea salt. Roast cut-side down on a baking sheet for 20–25 minutes or until crispy and browned.

6. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1⁄2 cup of pasta water and drain.

7. In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in Cajun seasoning. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add Parmesan and stir until smooth. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.

8. Toss cooked pasta in Cajun Alfredo sauce.

9. Plate pasta, top with maple garlic chicken, and add crispy Brussels sprouts. Garnish with parsley or red pepper flakes if desired.