Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo and Charred Broccolini

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Perfectly juicy and golden-seared, these Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites are elevated with a silky Cajun Alfredo infused with sun-dried tomatoes, making this a weeknight dinner that feels straight from a cozy bistro. Served with charred broccolini for that perfect crunch and contrast, it’s a full plate of bold, creamy, and slightly spicy flavor in every bite.

The chicken bites themselves are deeply savory thanks to a blend of garlic, herbs, and parmesan that crisps up as they sear in the pan. Then they’re blanketed in a Cajun Alfredo sauce with sun-dried tomatoes that brings a smoky-sweet heat, while the broccolini adds a light char and freshness. This combo is just as beautiful as it is satisfying.

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What Kind of Chicken Works Best for This Recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work equally well in this recipe. Chicken breasts tend to stay lean and firm, while thighs give you a juicier, slightly richer bite. Whichever you choose, cut them into even-sized pieces so they cook quickly and evenly in the skillet.

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Ingredients for the Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo and Charred Broccolini

Chicken Bites:

• Chicken breast or thighs: The star of the dish. Trimmed and cubed for a quick pan sear.
• Minced garlic: Delivers the base flavor with a warm, aromatic bite.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds salty richness and helps create a golden crust.
• Olive oil or butter: Essential for browning the chicken and carrying flavor.
• Italian seasoning and smoked paprika: Boost the savory profile with herby, smoky notes.

Cajun Alfredo Sauce:

• Heavy cream: The base of the creamy sauce, providing luscious texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Melts into the cream, intensifying the cheesy depth.
• Cajun seasoning: Brings heat, spice, and a Southern kick.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Add sweetness and chewy texture that complements the creamy sauce.
• Butter: Enriches the sauce while adding silkiness.

Charred Broccolini:

• Fresh broccolini: Lighter and more tender than broccoli with perfect crisp tips.
• Olive oil: Helps char and crisp the broccolini quickly.
• Sea salt and garlic powder: Boost flavor with simple seasoning.

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How To Make the Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo and Charred Broccolini

Step 1: Sear the Chicken Bites

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until golden and crispy on the outside and cooked through. Sprinkle with grated parmesan in the last minute of cooking to create a cheesy crust. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Char the Broccolini

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and toss in the broccolini. Let it cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to get that beautiful char. Season with garlic powder and sea salt, then sauté briefly until just tender but still crisp.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the pan, then stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in Cajun seasoning and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Let simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened, then stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the chicken bites back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat every piece generously. Plate with charred broccolini on the side or serve over rice or pasta for a heartier dish.

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How to Serve and Store Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites

Serve the chicken bites hot, nestled next to the charred broccolini or over a bed of rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. For added flair, sprinkle fresh parsley and a pinch of red chili flakes over the top before serving.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring the sauce back to life. Avoid microwaving for too long to keep the chicken from drying out.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is the Cajun Alfredo sauce?

It has a moderate kick from the Cajun seasoning. You can dial it up or down depending on your heat preference.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can use whole milk, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. A combo of milk and a bit of cream cheese helps if you still want some creaminess.

What can I use instead of broccolini?

Regular broccoli florets, asparagus, or even green beans work well. Just adjust the char time accordingly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and sauce ahead, then reheat gently. For best texture, cook the broccolini just before serving.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, swap the heavy cream and parmesan with dairy-free alternatives, and use olive oil instead of butter. The flavor will shift slightly but still be delicious.

What kind of pasta pairs well with this?

Fettuccine, penne, or even rigatoni all hold the sauce beautifully.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved these garlic-parmesan chicken bites, here are more mouthwatering recipes you might want to explore next:

• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine for a bright citrus twist.
• Garlic-Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta when you want something extra hearty.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a rich, cheesy comfort meal.
• One Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta if you’re craving a bold buffalo flavor.
• Sweet Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta for that sweet-savory balance.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you stick with broccolini or swap in something seasonal? Spice it up or mellow it out?

I love hearing your takes on these recipes. Drop your questions, swaps, or dinnertime wins below!

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