Easy Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites & Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta Recipe

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When I first tried pairing juicy, pan-seared chicken bites with creamy Cajun Alfredo pasta, I knew it would be one of those dishes that you crave on a random Tuesday night. The garlic-infused chicken has that perfect golden sear, while the pasta is rich, cheesy, and kissed with sun-dried tomato sweetness. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels indulgent but comes together surprisingly quickly.

I love this recipe because it satisfies both my pasta obsession and my need for a good protein boost. Plus, the Cajun seasoning gives it a subtle smoky kick that balances the creaminess beautifully. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or to impress guests, this one’s a crowd-pleaser from the very first bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites & Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

• Juicy, well-seasoned chicken bites that don’t dry out.
• A creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce that coats every twist of pasta.
• Balanced flavors—garlicky, smoky, cheesy, and slightly tangy from sun-dried tomatoes.
• Quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for a dinner party.
• Pairs beautifully with fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Easy Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites & Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta?

For this dish, I like to use rotini because the spirals hold onto that creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce like a dream. Every bite feels like the pasta is hugging the sauce. But if you don’t have rotini, you can absolutely go for penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine for a more classic Alfredo feel. Just remember, the thicker the pasta shape, the more sauce it will carry—so you really can’t go wrong.

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Options for Substitutions

• Chicken → Swap with shrimp for a seafood twist, or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Heavy cream → Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Parmesan cheese → Try pecorino romano for a sharper bite or nutritional yeast for a vegan substitute.
• Cajun seasoning → Replace with Italian seasoning for a milder flavor or smoked paprika for a less spicy kick.
• Sun-dried tomatoes → Use roasted red peppers if you want something sweeter and less tangy.

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Ingredients for Easy Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites & Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

(and why each is essential)

• Chicken breasts – Lean protein that soaks up all the garlic and spice.
• Olive oil – Helps get that perfect golden sear on the chicken.
• Garlic powder & fresh garlic – Layers of aromatic flavor in both the chicken and sauce.
• Onion powder – Adds a mellow sweetness to the chicken seasoning.
• Cajun seasoning – Smoky, slightly spicy depth for the sauce.
• Smoked paprika – Enhances both color and flavor in the chicken.
• Salt & pepper – The foundation for balanced seasoning.
• Heavy cream – The rich base for the Alfredo sauce.
• Parmesan cheese – Creamy, salty, and nutty finish for the sauce.
• Sun-dried tomatoes – Tangy-sweet bursts that cut through the richness.
• Rotini pasta – Twirls that cling to every bit of sauce.
• Fresh parsley – A bright, fresh garnish to lift the flavors.

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Step 1 – Season & Prep the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. In a bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and a touch of Cajun seasoning. Toss the chicken in the mix until every piece is well-coated.

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Step 2 – Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken bites in a single layer and cook for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

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Step 3 – Boil the Pasta

In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water for the sauce.

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Step 4 – Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add a bit more olive oil or butter. Sauté minced fresh garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add Cajun seasoning and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, then let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.

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Step 5 – Add the Cheese

Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

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Step 6 – Combine Pasta & Sauce

Add the cooked rotini to the sauce and toss until every spiral is coated in creamy goodness.

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Step 7 – Serve

Plate the creamy pasta alongside the juicy chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent.

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How Long to Cook Easy Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites & Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

This recipe moves pretty quickly once you start, so having your ingredients prepped is key.

• Chicken bites – About 6–8 minutes over medium-high heat, turning occasionally until golden and cooked through (165°F / 74°C internally).
• Pasta – Usually 8–10 minutes for rotini, but check the package for exact times. Aim for al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when tossed in the sauce.
• Cajun Alfredo sauce – Around 5–6 minutes total from sautéing garlic to melting in the Parmesan.

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Tips for Perfect Easy Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites & Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

• Dry your chicken before seasoning – Patting it with paper towels helps the seasoning stick and ensures a better sear.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Give the chicken bites space so they caramelize instead of steaming.
• Freshly grate your Parmesan – It melts smoother and has a richer flavor than pre-shredded.
• Reserve pasta water – A splash can loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
• Taste as you go – Cajun seasoning brands vary in saltiness, so adjust before serving.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the chicken – This will dry it out fast. Remove it from the skillet as soon as it hits 165°F (74°C).
• Using cold cream straight from the fridge – It can cause the sauce to split. Let it sit out for a few minutes before adding to the pan.
• Skipping the pasta water – That starchy liquid is gold for binding the sauce to the pasta.
• Adding Parmesan too quickly – Stir it in gradually over low heat to prevent clumps.
• Not tasting before serving – Cajun seasoning can be salty; you may not need extra salt.

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What to Serve With Easy Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites & Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta

1. Garlic Bread

Perfect for mopping up extra sauce and adding a crunchy side.

2. Mixed Green Salad

A fresh, crisp counterbalance to the rich Alfredo sauce.

3. Roasted Broccoli

Adds color, texture, and a slightly charred depth.

4. Bruschetta

Tomatoes and basil bring a fresh, zesty contrast.

5. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

If you want to go all-out comfort, serve alongside for an extra indulgent meal.

6. Steamed Asparagus

Light and crisp to balance the pasta’s creaminess.

7. Parmesan Zucchini Fries

A fun, low-carb alternative to traditional sides.

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Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s texture.
• Freezer – The chicken and sauce freeze better separately than with pasta. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Meal Prep Tip – Keep the pasta and sauce in separate containers if making ahead; combine only when reheating to avoid soggy pasta.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~620 kcal
• Protein: ~36g
• Carbohydrates: ~48g
• Fat: ~30g
• Saturated Fat: ~14g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~5g
• Sodium: ~880mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but add it at the end just to heat through so it doesn’t dry out.

2. Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild kick from Cajun seasoning, but you can tone it down by using less or substituting with Italian seasoning.

3. Can I make the sauce without cream?

Yes—use evaporated milk or a mix of milk and a little butter for a lighter sauce.

4. What pasta shapes work best?

Rotini, penne, fusilli, or fettuccine all work well to hold the creamy sauce.

5. How can I make this gluten-free?

Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta and check that your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

6. Can I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut cream or oat cream instead of heavy cream, and a vegan Parmesan alternative.

7. How do I keep the sauce from clumping?

Add Parmesan gradually over low heat and stir continuously.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes—just cook the chicken in batches so it browns evenly, and use a large enough pan for the sauce and pasta.

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Conclusion

Easy Tuscan Garlic Chicken Bites & Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Pasta is one of those dishes that strikes the perfect balance between cozy comfort and restaurant-level flavor. Juicy, garlic-kissed chicken bites meet creamy, smoky, Cajun-spiced Alfredo sauce, all wrapped around pasta that soaks up every drop. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but special enough for when you want to impress.

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