Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites & Ranch Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta

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If comfort food had a spicy cousin with attitude, it would be this: Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites & Ranch Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta. A bold mashup of creamy, tangy, and zesty flavors that instantly satisfies those weeknight dinner cravings. Think juicy, golden-fried chicken bites tossed in a fiery garlic buffalo sauce, paired with tender rotini drenched in a ranch-infused Cajun Alfredo that’s equal parts smoky and creamy.

This recipe is everything you love about indulgent pasta nights—plus a hot-wing twist that makes it unforgettable. It brings together that satisfying crunch of seasoned chicken with the luxurious creaminess of Alfredo, all balanced by the fresh pop of green herbs on top. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just spicing up your own dinner routine, this dish delivers the kind of flavor punch that turns heads at the table.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For this recipe, boneless skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs work best. Chicken breast offers a leaner option, while thighs stay ultra juicy during frying. Cut into bite-sized pieces, they’re quick to cook and perfect for soaking up that buffalo garlic sauce.

If you’re short on time, you could even use high-quality frozen popcorn chicken and just toss it in the homemade sauce at the end.

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Ingredients for the Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites & Ranch Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Chicken Breast or Thighs – This is the star protein of the dish, holding up well to seasoning, frying, and buffalo garlic sauce.

Buttermilk – Essential for tenderizing the chicken before frying. It also helps the seasoned flour adhere.

All-Purpose Flour & Cornstarch – Used for dredging the chicken to get that crispy, golden crust when fried.

Buffalo Sauce – Delivers the classic tangy heat that makes the chicken bites addictively good.

Minced Garlic – Infuses the buffalo sauce with rich, garlicky depth.

Unsalted Butter – Blends into the buffalo sauce for smoothness and a touch of richness.

Rotini Pasta – Holds onto the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully with every spiral.

Heavy Cream – The base for a luscious Alfredo sauce.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds sharp, nutty flavor to balance the creaminess.

Cajun Seasoning – Kicks up the flavor in the Alfredo sauce with bold Southern-inspired spice.

Ranch Seasoning Mix – Adds tangy, herby layers to the Alfredo that make it irresistible.

Olive Oil – Used to sauté and help bring all the pasta flavors together.

Fresh Parsley or Chives – Adds a fresh finishing touch with a bit of color and brightness.

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How To Make the Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites & Ranch Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and soak in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight if prepping ahead). This step makes the chicken extra tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Coat and Fry

In a shallow bowl, mix flour and cornstarch with a pinch of salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Dredge the marinated chicken pieces until fully coated. Heat oil in a deep skillet and fry until golden brown and crispy. Set on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Toss in Buffalo Garlic Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic. Stir in buffalo sauce and let simmer for a couple of minutes. Toss the fried chicken pieces into the sauce until well-coated.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Boil the rotini in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Make Ranch Cajun Alfredo

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and pour in the heavy cream. Add ranch seasoning and Cajun seasoning, stirring to combine. Simmer for a few minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Combine and Plate

Add the cooked rotini to the Alfredo sauce and stir to coat. Plate the creamy pasta and top generously with buffalo garlic chicken bites. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh pop of flavor.

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How to Serve and Store Buffalo Garlic Chicken Bites & Ranch Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta

This dish is best served hot and fresh, straight from the skillet. The crispiness of the chicken and the silky Alfredo sauce are most enjoyable when the textures contrast beautifully. Serve it as a hearty main dish for dinner, alongside garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Reheat chicken separately in the oven or air fryer for best texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini holds the sauce well, penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine are great alternatives.

Is there a substitute for buttermilk?

Yes. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

You can. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. While it won’t be as crispy as frying, it’s a lighter option.

How spicy is this dish?

The buffalo sauce adds noticeable heat, but it’s balanced by the creamy Alfredo and ranch. To dial down the spice, use a mild buffalo sauce.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes! The Alfredo sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the fridge and gently reheat it before mixing with the pasta.

What’s the best way to reheat the chicken without it getting soggy?

Use an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes to bring back the crisp texture.

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Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If this fiery, creamy combo hits the spot, you’ll definitely love these flavorful dishes too:

• Try the Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a milder, ultra-creamy twist.
• Craving a Southern kick? The One Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Chicken Sausage Mac packs heat and comfort in one pan.
• For a lighter option, go with Light Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Chicken—fresh and perfect for warm days.
• Spice lovers will want the One Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta—a cousin to this dish with one-pan simplicity.
• Feeling fancy? Indulge in Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine for restaurant-worthy flavor at home.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it whenever the cravings hit: Life with Nina on Pinterest

And I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you add extra heat or go milder on the sauce? Did you mix up the pasta type? Share your version in the comments or tag me with your plate!

Let’s make comfort food craveable—one spicy bite at a time.

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