Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo & Crispy Brussels Twists

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

When sweet maple meets savory garlic and spicy Cajun alfredo, magic happens. This recipe isn’t just about flavor—it’s about boldness. Caramelized maple garlic chicken bites with a perfect char nestle onto creamy Cajun-spiced Alfredo noodles, while crispy Brussels sprouts add just the right bite and texture to round things out. It’s comfort food with a spicy soul and a veggie twist that even non-Brussels lovers can’t resist.

This meal looks like something you’d order at a fancy bistro, but it’s a weeknight warrior’s dream. Everything comes together in under an hour, and the flavors are so rich and layered, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation. Whether you’re serving guests or just treating yourself, this bowl is a crave-worthy knockout.

---

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the top choice here. They cook up juicy and hold onto flavor better than chicken breasts. That said, breasts will work too if you prefer leaner cuts—just make sure not to overcook them. We want golden, crisp edges and juicy interiors that soak in that maple garlic glaze like a sponge.

---

Ingredients for the Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo & Crispy Brussels Twists

Chicken Thighs or Breasts – The foundation of the dish. Choose thighs for more tenderness and flavor.

Maple Syrup – The star of the glaze. Adds a deep caramelized sweetness that balances the spice.

Fresh Garlic – Minced and sautéed, it brings aromatic depth to the maple glaze.

Soy Sauce – Adds umami to cut through the sweetness and brings the glaze together.

Cajun Seasoning – Brings the heat. Essential for the Alfredo sauce and to season the chicken.

Heavy Cream – Forms the creamy base of the Alfredo. Rich, smooth, and perfect with Cajun heat.

Parmesan Cheese – Melted into the Alfredo, it gives that nutty sharpness and silky finish.

Fettuccine or Linguine – Wide noodles are best to soak up the creamy sauce and hold the chicken bites.

Brussels Sprouts – Roasted until golden and crisp. They add texture and earthiness to the dish.

Olive Oil – Helps roast the Brussels and sear the chicken with just the right crust.

Parsley – Optional, but a fresh sprinkle over the top adds brightness and color.

---

How To Make the Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo & Crispy Brussels Twists

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Start by trimming and halving the Brussels sprouts. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and a dash of Cajun seasoning. Spread them on a baking sheet, cut side down, and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes until deeply golden and crispy on the edges.

---

Step 2: Sear and Glaze the Chicken Bites

Cut the chicken thighs (or breasts) into bite-sized chunks and season with Cajun seasoning. In a hot skillet with olive oil, sear the pieces until browned and cooked through. Then add minced garlic, maple syrup, and soy sauce. Stir and let the glaze bubble and thicken, coating each piece in sticky, sweet-savory goodness.

---

Step 3: Boil the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your fettuccine or linguine until al dente. Reserve a bit of pasta water before draining to help emulsify the sauce later if needed.

---

Step 4: Make the Spicy Cajun Alfredo Sauce

In a saucepan, heat a splash of olive oil or butter and add Cajun seasoning. Toast it briefly, then pour in the heavy cream. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. If it gets too thick, loosen it with reserved pasta water.

---

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Toss the cooked pasta in the spicy Alfredo sauce. Serve in bowls topped with the maple garlic chicken bites and roasted Brussels sprouts. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.

---

How to Serve and Store Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo & Crispy Brussels Twists

This dish is best served fresh out of the skillet while the Alfredo sauce is silky, the chicken is sticky-hot, and those Brussels sprouts are at their crispiest. Pile it high into shallow bowls for a cozy comfort-food experience or plate it elegantly with a garnish of parsley if you’re hosting.

For storing, separate components if possible. Keep the pasta and sauce in one airtight container, the chicken in another, and the Brussels sprouts on their own to preserve crispiness. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat pasta gently over low heat with a splash of cream or milk. Re-crisp Brussels in the oven or air fryer.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce, roast the Brussels, and cook the chicken in advance. Assemble everything when you’re ready to eat so the textures stay perfect.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can work in a pinch. The flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Is it spicy?

The Cajun Alfredo has a kick, but it’s not overpowering. Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your heat preference.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. While fettuccine and linguine are great for holding the sauce, penne or rotini can be used if that’s what you have on hand.

How do I keep the Brussels sprouts crispy?

Roast them well and serve immediately. Avoid covering them or storing them with steam-trapping foods like pasta.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes—swap out heavy cream for a non-dairy alternative like oat or almond cream and use dairy-free cheese. Keep in mind the sauce will be slightly less rich.

---

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?

If you love these maple garlic chicken bites with spicy Cajun Alfredo, you might find yourself craving more bold, comforting pasta dishes. Check out these flavor-packed recipes from my kitchen:

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a lush, cheesy twist on Alfredo.
• One Skillet Spicy Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pasta if you love creamy heat with tangy ranch balance.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli for a hearty, veggie-packed option.
• One Skillet Sweet Spicy Sticky Chicken Pasta for sticky-sweet chicken lovers.
• Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet if you’re craving surf and turf with Cajun flair.

---

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime: Life with Nina on Pinterest

Have you made this maple garlic chicken pasta combo yet? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you go heavy on the Cajun or keep it mild? Crisp your Brussels to perfection or toss in another veggie? Share your results and ask away in the comments—let’s inspire each other to spice up weeknight dinners!

---

Print