When you need a hearty and flavorful dinner that looks gourmet but comes together effortlessly, this Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta is your weeknight hero. The chicken bites are seared to juicy perfection with a garlicky Tuscan spice blend, while the pasta swims in a creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce that’s dotted with sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.

It’s a dish that’s both comforting and bold—ideal for a date night in or a cozy family dinner. The creamy sauce clings to every twist of rotini, and the charred bits on the chicken pack in so much savory depth. Best part? It’s as easy to make as it is to devour.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Rotini is a fabulous choice for this recipe because its spirals trap every bit of the creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce. But feel free to swap it out with penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine if you prefer a different texture or have something on hand. Just make sure it’s a pasta that can hold sauce well.

Ingredients for the Delicious Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works best for tender, juicy bites that sear quickly.

Olive Oil: Essential for getting that golden crust on your chicken bites.

Tuscan Seasoning: A bold blend of dried basil, oregano, rosemary, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper that infuses the chicken with deep flavor.

Fresh Garlic: Adds that real, aromatic punch you just can’t fake.

Rotini Pasta: Its shape hugs all the sauce—no bite left behind.

Butter: For the silky foundation of the Alfredo sauce.

Heavy Cream: Brings in the creaminess that makes Alfredo irresistible.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Tangy and chewy, they add richness and a sweet depth.

Cajun Seasoning: Adds smoky heat to the creamy base.

Fresh Parsley: For brightness and a final pop of color.

How To Make the Delicious Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and toss them in a bowl with olive oil, Tuscan seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the flavors soak in for at least 10 minutes while you prep other ingredients.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken Bites

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil and sear the chicken bites in batches, about 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium. Melt butter, then add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, and sun-dried tomatoes. Let simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring often.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Combine

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth. Add the cooked rotini into the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Add the seared chicken bites back into the skillet or serve them on the side. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a touch more Parmesan if you like.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta

Serve this dish hot right from the skillet for maximum creaminess. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies. Garlic bread? Always a yes.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. For meal prep, keep the pasta and chicken in separate containers and combine when reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is the Cajun Alfredo sauce?

The Cajun seasoning brings a mild heat that complements the creaminess of the sauce. If you’re spice-sensitive, you can start with half the amount and build up to taste.

Can I use a different cut of chicken?

Absolutely. Boneless skinless thighs work great too and offer more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust cook time accordingly.

What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can work, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. Add a bit of cream cheese to mimic the thickness.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check your Cajun seasoning and Parmesan cheese to ensure they’re gluten-free.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Skip the chicken and use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even roasted chickpeas. The sauce is so flavorful it holds up perfectly on its own.

Can I freeze this recipe?

It’s not ideal for freezing due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate upon reheating. For best texture and flavor, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you’re into bold and creamy dishes like this one, here are a few pasta recipes you might also love:

• Try this ultra-comforting Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta

• For a smoky twist, check out the One Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta

• You’ll love the tangy kick in this Sweet Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta

• Try the comforting classic: One Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta Dinner

• Or dig into the zesty flavor of Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet

📌 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 go heavy on the Cajun? Add extra Parmesan? I love hearing how you made it your own.

Check out my full collection of daily comfort food creations over on Pinterest here ➡️ Life with Nina on Pinterest

Delicious Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Pasta Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Print Recipe

Description

A bold and creamy Tuscan-style pasta dish with seared garlic chicken bites and a smoky sun-dried tomato Cajun Alfredo sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight comfort or impressing dinner guests with little effort.

Instructions

1. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Toss with olive oil, Tuscan seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 10 minutes.

2. In a hot skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of olive oil and sear the chicken bites in batches. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Set aside.

3. In a separate pot, cook rotini pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

5. Stir in heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, and sun-dried tomatoes. Simmer for 3–5 minutes.

6. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until sauce is creamy and smooth.

7. Toss in the cooked rotini pasta, making sure every piece is coated. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

8. Return the chicken bites to the skillet or serve them on the side.

9. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.