Crispy Chicken Bites & Blackened Cajun Alfredo with Roasted Corn Twists

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Crispy Chicken Bites & Blackened Cajun Alfredo with Roasted Corn Twists is a flavor-packed fusion of crunchy chicken, velvety alfredo sauce, and spiced corn pasta. This dish brings together soul-warming comfort food with bold Southern-inspired seasoning, all in one vibrant plate. The golden chicken bites offer a satisfying crunch, perfectly balancing the creamy heat of the Cajun alfredo and the subtly sweet twists of roasted corn pasta.

This recipe is ideal for anyone craving indulgent weeknight dinners, or looking to wow at a potluck with something different. It feels familiar yet exciting—each bite delivers richness, spice, and texture. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving a hungry family, this dish holds up beautifully and brings restaurant-level flavor to your kitchen.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Cajun Alfredo?

For this bold dish, the best pasta to use is rotini or any twist-shaped variety like fusilli. These spiral shapes are perfect for clinging to the rich Cajun Alfredo sauce, ensuring every forkful is creamy and flavorful. If you can find roasted corn-infused pasta (yes, it exists!), it’s a game-changer for adding that extra layer of sweetness and earthiness. But regular rotini works just as well—just toss it with a touch of roasted corn or charred kernels for that smoky-sweet touch.

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Ingredients for the Crispy Chicken Bites & Blackened Cajun Alfredo with Roasted Corn Twists

Chicken Breasts or Tenders – These are the star of the dish, providing the crispy, juicy bite that contrasts the creamy pasta.

Buttermilk – A must for marinating the chicken, it tenderizes and adds tang that boosts flavor.

Flour & Cornstarch Mix – This combo gives the chicken its signature crispness.

Cajun Seasoning – Essential for both the chicken and the alfredo sauce, bringing the smoky heat that defines this dish.

Rotini Pasta – Its spirals trap the creamy sauce perfectly. Roasted corn flavor adds a sweet-smoky layer.

Heavy Cream – This creates the luxurious base of your alfredo.

Parmesan Cheese – Melts into the sauce, adding nuttiness and depth.

Butter – A flavor builder for both sauce and searing spices.

Roasted Corn Kernels – These fold into the pasta for sweet contrast and texture.

Fresh Parsley – For a vibrant, herbaceous finish.

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How To Make the Crispy Chicken Bites & Blackened Cajun Alfredo with Roasted Corn Twists

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken breast strips or tenders in a bowl with buttermilk. Add a tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight. This creates juicy, flavorful bites.

Step 2: Prep the Coating

In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and another tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Dredge the marinated chicken in this mixture until fully coated.

Step 3: Fry Until Crispy

Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Boil your rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter and add Cajun seasoning. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens. Fold in roasted corn kernels and adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 6: Combine and Garnish

Toss the cooked pasta with the Cajun alfredo sauce until coated. Plate alongside the crispy chicken bites. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

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How to Serve and Store This Bold Dish

This dish is best served fresh, with the crispy chicken bites on the side of the creamy pasta so they keep their crunch. For extra heat, drizzle with hot sauce or serve with a side of pickled jalapeños.

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and pasta separately in airtight containers. The chicken can be reheated in an air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness, while the pasta reheats well with a splash of cream or milk on the stovetop. Refrigerated, both components stay good for up to 3 days.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to make the chicken stay crispy?

Fry in hot oil (around 350°F) and let pieces rest on a wire rack or paper towels. Reheat in an air fryer or oven, not the microwave.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, but it won’t have the same crunch. You can reheat breaded frozen chicken strips or nuggets as a quick substitute.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the components ahead: marinate the chicken and make the sauce the day before. Cook everything fresh for best results.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a medium heat level thanks to the Cajun seasoning. Adjust by adding more or less seasoning to suit your preference.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and coat the chicken in a gluten-free flour blend.

What if I don’t have roasted corn?

You can char frozen corn in a skillet for similar smoky sweetness, or just use sweet corn kernels as-is.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved these crispy Cajun bites and creamy corn pasta, try these other satisfying dinners that bring bold flavor to the table:

• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine for a citrusy twist on classic comfort.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a velvety ricotta spin.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes for a hearty, roasted one-pan meal.
• One Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Chicken Sausage Mac if you’re into heat with cheesy goodness.
• One Skillet Sweet Spicy Sticky Chicken Pasta for sweet and heat lovers alike.

For more easy meals and daily recipes I love, check out my Pinterest page: Life with Nina

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you swap the pasta? Add extra spice? Use an air fryer for the chicken?

I love seeing how you bring these recipes to life. Ask questions, share tips, or drop your own flavor twists—let’s help each other cook with creativity.

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