Description
Crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken bites served over creamy smoked Cajun Alfredo gemelli pasta — a flavorful fusion of bold spices and comfort-food richness.
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian-style)
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
10 oz gemelli pasta
1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
2 tablespoons chopped chives
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
2. In one bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the egg wash, then coat thoroughly in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture.
4. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken bites in batches until golden and cooked through. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Cook gemelli pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water.
6. In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter, then stir in garlic powder, remaining Cajun seasoning, and heavy cream. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
7. Add shredded smoked gouda and stir until the sauce is smooth and melted. Thin with reserved pasta water if needed.
8. Toss drained gemelli pasta in the Alfredo sauce until fully coated.
9. Serve pasta topped with crispy chicken bites. Garnish with chopped chives and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for optimal crispness in the chicken crust.
Cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure even browning.
Reheat the Alfredo pasta gently with a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: Parmesan Chicken, Alfredo Pasta, Cajun Pasta