Julia Walton
Golden, juicy, and loaded with flavor, these Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites are the star of this comfort-food-meets-gourmet dish. Imagine tender bites of chicken, seared to perfection, nestled in a velvety Cajun Alfredo sauce kissed with sun-dried tomatoes. Add charred broccolini for fresh, slightly smoky balance, and you’ve got a plate as beautiful as it is delicious.
The combination of creamy, cheesy pasta and savory, well-seasoned chicken makes this recipe a weeknight favorite that feels like a special occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish delivers on flavor and presentation.
What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the top pick. They stay juicy and tender during searing, and their rich flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce. For leaner meat, chicken breast works well—just be careful not to overcook it.
Ingredients for Easy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – Juicy, flavorful bites that stay tender.
- Fresh garlic – Adds rich, aromatic depth.
- Parmesan cheese – Gives a savory, nutty flavor that enhances the sauce.
- Cajun seasoning – Infuses bold, smoky spice.
- Heavy cream – Base of the Alfredo sauce for silky richness.
- Sun-dried tomatoes – Tangy-sweet contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Pappardelle pasta – Wide ribbons that soak up the sauce.
- Broccolini – Freshness and slight bitterness to balance creaminess.
- Olive oil & butter – For searing and richness.
- Fresh parsley – Brightens the dish.
How To Make Easy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Toss with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Alfredo Base
In the same pan, sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan and whisk until smooth.
Step 3: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Chop sun-dried tomatoes and stir them into the sauce. Let simmer for a few minutes so flavors meld.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Boil pappardelle pasta until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 5: Char the Broccolini
Toss broccolini with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill or sear until slightly charred.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Return chicken to the sauce. Add pasta, tossing to coat. Use pasta water as needed for consistency. Serve with broccolini on the side and garnish with parsley.
Serving and Storing Easy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites
Serve immediately while warm for the best creamy texture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
What to Serve With Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites
Fresh Garden Salad
The crisp freshness complements the creamy richness.
Garlic Bread
Perfect for soaking up extra Alfredo sauce.
Roasted Potatoes
Adds a hearty side with a crispy edge.
Bruschetta
Fresh tomato topping balances the savory chicken.
Caesar Salad
Classic pairing with creamy pasta dishes.
Grilled Asparagus
Adds a light, earthy note.
Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?
If you love these chicken bites, try:
- White Wine Parmesan Chicken for a sophisticated twist.
- Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for another creamy favorite.
- Chicken Spinach and Mushroom for a cozy one-pan meal.
- Buttermilk Oven Fried Chicken for crispy comfort.
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Tried it with a twist? Maybe extra spice or a different pasta shape? Share your tips in the comments!
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest.
Easy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot for Pasta
- Grill pan
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 500 g boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.33 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 250 g pappardelle pasta
- 1 bunch broccolini
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth.
- Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, simmer for a few minutes to blend flavors.
- Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, drain pasta.
- Toss broccolini with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Char in a grill pan or skillet until tender.
- Return chicken to sauce, add pasta, and toss. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water.
- Serve pasta with charred broccolini, garnished with parsley.