Name: Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup olive oil (or neutral oil for frying); 8 ounces Gemelli pasta; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce); 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (for sauce); 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (for sauce); 2 tablespoons chopped chives or parsley

Golden, crunchy, juicy—Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites are the perfect crispy companion to rich, smoky Cajun Alfredo Gemelli. This dish is indulgence done right. The Cajun-spiced Alfredo clings to every curve of the pasta, while the chicken bites add bold contrast with their sharp, nutty crust and buttery tenderness.

It’s a weeknight dinner that feels like a restaurant special, yet it’s made entirely at home. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply spice up pasta night, this recipe delivers bold flavor, creamy heat, and a satisfying crunch in every bite.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Gemelli is ideal for creamy sauces like Alfredo. Its twisted shape helps hold onto all the delicious smoky Cajun sauce so that every forkful bursts with flavor. If you can’t find Gemelli, substitute with fettuccine, penne, or rotini.

Ingredients for the Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli

Chicken breast – Tender and juicy, it’s the perfect protein for coating in crispy Parmesan breading.
Panko breadcrumbs – Gives the chicken bites their signature crunch. Toasted to perfection.
Parmesan cheese – Salty, sharp, and nutty, Parmesan infuses the crust with flavor.
Eggs – Helps bind the breading to the chicken for that crunchy exterior.
All-purpose flour – A necessary base layer for even coating and crispiness.
Spices – Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper bring layers of heat and flavor.
Olive oil or neutral oil – For frying the chicken bites to golden perfection.
Gemelli pasta – The twisted pasta captures every bit of the creamy sauce.
Butter and heavy cream – The foundation of a rich Alfredo sauce.
Fresh garlic – Infuses the cream with bold, aromatic flavor.
Parmesan cheese (again!) – For melting into the Alfredo for that velvety texture.
Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika – To give the Alfredo sauce a warm, smoky, spicy kick.
Chopped parsley or chives – A fresh finish that brightens the plate.

How To Make the Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure maximum crisp.

Step 2: Breading Station Setup

Create three bowls: one with seasoned flour (salt, pepper, garlic powder), one with whisked eggs, and one with a mix of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken Bites

Dredge chicken pieces first in flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat them generously in the Parmesan-panko mix. Place on a baking sheet while you finish the batch.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden

In a skillet over medium-high heat, fry the breaded chicken in hot oil until golden and crisp on all sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Cook the Gemelli Pasta

Boil the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water.

Step 6: Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce

In a pan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a splash of pasta water. Simmer until thickened.

Step 7: Combine and Finish

Toss the cooked Gemelli in the creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce. Serve in bowls, topping each with a generous helping of the crispy chicken bites. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley.

How to Serve and Store This Dish

Serve the pasta immediately while hot, with the chicken bites freshly fried for maximum crunch. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a scattering of herbs elevates presentation. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.

Leftovers? Store the Alfredo pasta and chicken bites separately in airtight containers. The chicken can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness. The Alfredo pasta reheats best on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is the Cajun Alfredo?

It has a warm kick from Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, but you can easily adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting the seasoning.

Can I bake the chicken bites instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 425°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crisp but still delicious.

Can I make this recipe ahead?

You can prep the chicken and sauce components ahead, but for the best texture, fry the chicken bites just before serving.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a similar richness.

What does smoked paprika add?

Smoked paprika adds a slightly sweet, earthy, smoky depth that rounds out the creamy Alfredo beautifully.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before breading to ensure the coating sticks.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If these crispy Parmesan bites and smoky Alfredo pasta hit the spot, you might also enjoy these savory crowd-pleasers:

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Creamy Mustard Dip if you’re craving oven-fried comfort.
Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet for a restaurant-style, buttery twist.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for an all-in-one creamy pasta bowl.
Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole as a cozy family meal with flaky, cheesy layers.
Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo for a bold, saucy upgrade.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it again for your next comfort food craving: Life with Jam on Pinterest.

And if you make this dish, let me know in the comments below—Did you spice it up even more? Try air frying the chicken? I love seeing your takes and answering any questions you might have!

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This restaurant-style comfort dish pairs ultra-crispy Parmesan crusted chicken bites with creamy smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli pasta. With a bold, cheesy sauce and irresistible crunch, it’s the perfect combo for cozy nights or family dinners.

Instructions

1. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry.

2. Set up three breading bowls: one with flour mixed with salt, pepper, and garlic powder; another with whisked eggs; and the third with a mix of panko and Parmesan.

3. Bread each chicken piece by dipping in flour, then egg, then Parmesan-panko mix.

4. Heat oil in a skillet and fry chicken bites for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels.

5. Cook the Gemelli pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain.

6. In a pan, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add cream, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and Parmesan. Simmer and stir until thickened. Add pasta water if needed.

7. Toss cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce. Plate pasta and top with crispy chicken bites. Garnish with chopped herbs. Serve hot.