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

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Tender, juicy, pan-seared chicken bites meet a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce kissed with Cajun spice and the depth of sun-dried tomatoes. This dish is bold in flavor, yet elegantly simple—perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a no-fuss weekend indulgence. Finished with a punch of garlic and Parmesan, the chicken delivers a savory crunch, while the sauce wraps each bite in velvety decadence. Paired with lightly charred broccolini, it’s a plate that balances comfort with nutrition.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini ticks every box. It’s low-carb, high-protein, and packed with flavor—without being overly heavy. One skillet, one pan of roasted greens, and a few pantry staples are all you need to transform ordinary ingredients into something genuinely crave-worthy.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini

• Flavor-Packed: Garlic, Parmesan, Cajun spices, and sun-dried tomatoes create layers of deep, savory goodness.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, with minimal prep and cleanup.
• Balanced Meal: Protein-rich chicken and fiber-loaded broccolini make this dish both satisfying and nourishing.
• Versatile: Pair with rice, pasta, or keep it low-carb with extra veggies or cauliflower mash.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: The sauce holds well, and the bites reheat beautifully for lunches or leftovers.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment + Their Importance)

Getting organized before cooking this dish will streamline the process and elevate the final result. Here’s what you’ll need and why each tool matters:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan: For perfectly seared chicken bites with a golden crust. Cast iron retains heat well and delivers consistent browning.
• Nonstick or Stainless-Steel Sauté Pan: Ideal for making the Alfredo sauce, allowing for smooth stirring and simmering without burning.
• Tongs: Crucial for flipping the chicken evenly without piercing it and losing juices.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: To stir and fold the sauce without scratching your cookware.
• Sheet Pan (Optional): If you’re roasting the broccolini instead of pan-charing it, this will help evenly cook them in the oven.
• Garlic Press or Microplane: Makes prepping garlic quick and efficient, releasing maximum flavor into your sauce.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: For clean, even cuts of chicken and trimming broccolini.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups: To keep your seasoning and sauce components balanced.

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Preparation Tips

• Pat the Chicken Dry: Moisture on the surface prevents browning. Use paper towels to pat dry each piece before seasoning.
• Preheat the Pan: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding chicken. A hot pan gives you that crispy, golden sear.
• Char Broccolini Separately: Either roast it at high heat or sear it in a separate pan for best texture and slight bitterness that balances the creamy sauce.
• Soak Sun-Dried Tomatoes (If Dry): Rehydrate them in warm water for 10–15 minutes before chopping, to prevent chewy bits.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed, so each piece gets nicely browned instead of steaming.
• Add Parmesan Off Heat: To avoid clumping or graininess, stir in the Parmesan once the sauce is off the heat and slightly cooled.

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

For the Chicken Bites:

• 1.5 lbs chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Cajun Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red chili flakes (optional for extra kick)

For the Charred Broccolini:

• 1 bunch broccolini (or substitute with regular broccoli florets)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Lemon zest or juice (optional, for brightness)

Optional Add-ins:

• Cooked pasta, rice, or cauliflower mash (if you want to bulk it into a full meal)
• Fresh basil or thyme for added aroma

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Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, black pepper, and grated Parmesan. Mix until each piece is evenly coated. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Avoid overcrowding—cook in batches if necessary. Once done, transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil.

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Step 3: Char the Broccolini

In the same pan (or a separate one if preferred), add olive oil and broccolini. Sauté over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes until slightly charred and tender-crisp. Add garlic during the last minute of cooking. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest if desired. Remove from heat and set aside.

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Step 4: Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce

In a separate sauté pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning and stir. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

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Step 5: Finish the Sauce

Once the cream is bubbling lightly, reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and thickened (about 3–4 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes to taste. Remove from heat once the desired consistency is reached.

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Step 6: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the sauce and toss to coat, or drizzle the sauce over plated chicken if preferred. Plate with charred broccolini on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

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Notes

• Choose the Right Chicken Cut: Chicken thighs add more juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts work great for a leaner option.
• Sun-Dried Tomato Prep: If using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drain them well before chopping to avoid an overly oily sauce.
• Adjust Heat Levels: Customize the spice by reducing or increasing the Cajun seasoning and chili flakes to your preference.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the Pan: This traps steam and prevents browning. Sear chicken in batches if needed for crisp, golden bites.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: Parmesan can clump or curdle if added to boiling cream. Wait until the sauce has slightly cooled and is off the heat.
• Not Drying Chicken: Excess moisture keeps chicken from searing properly, leading to pale, rubbery bites instead of caramelized goodness.
• Skipping the Rest Time: Let the seasoned chicken sit briefly before cooking—this allows the flavors to absorb more fully.
• Using High Heat for the Sauce: Keep it gentle. Boiling the cream too hard can separate the sauce and ruin its silky texture.
• Burning the Garlic: When sautéing for the sauce or broccolini, add garlic at the end to prevent bitterness.

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What to Serve With Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini?

While this dish holds its own as a complete meal, you can definitely elevate it with a few thoughtful sides or pairings. Whether you’re keeping it low-carb or want to indulge a bit more, here are some fantastic options:

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8 Recommendations

1. Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
   A low-carb alternative to potatoes that soaks up the Cajun Alfredo sauce beautifully.
2. Buttery Garlic Rice
   A simple rice dish with garlic and herbs complements the rich sauce and adds extra comfort.
3. Pappardelle or Fettuccine Pasta
   If you’re in the mood for indulgence, this sauce deserves to be twirled into thick pasta ribbons.
4. Crispy Roasted Potatoes
   For a satisfying crunch, serve the chicken and broccolini alongside golden baby potatoes.
5. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)
   A lighter choice that keeps the meal keto-friendly and adds extra veg to the plate.
6. Toasted Sourdough or Garlic Bread
   Perfect for mopping up every last drop of that sun-dried tomato Alfredo sauce.
7. Lemon-Parmesan Couscous
   A light, fluffy base that balances the creamy richness of the main dish with a citrusy note.
8. Fresh Arugula Salad
   A peppery salad with a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast and cuts through the richness of the sauce.

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Storage Instructions

Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini stores exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep the sauce and chicken together, and store the broccolini separately to preserve its texture.
• Freezing: The chicken and sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. However, the sauce may separate slightly when reheated—stir well and add a splash of cream to bring it back together.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a bit of cream, milk, or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works too—just cover and stir halfway through.
• Meal Prep Tip: Store in individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches. Add fresh herbs just before serving to brighten up reheated portions.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving — based on 4 servings total)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Cholesterol: 140mg
• Sodium: 610mg
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Serving Size: 1 plate (includes chicken, sauce, and broccolini)
• Category: Dinner / Main Dish
• Diet: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free Parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes)

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, making them a great choice for this recipe.

2. Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild kick from the Cajun seasoning and optional chili flakes. You can easily adjust the heat level up or down depending on your preference.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, though it will change the flavor. Use plant-based cream (like coconut cream or oat-based) and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Be sure to pick mild-flavored substitutes to keep the sauce balanced.

4. What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes (sautéed) can be a great substitute. They’ll bring a sweeter, less tangy flavor.

5. Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently and stir in a splash of cream to refresh the texture.

6. What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make a quick blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne.

7. Can I serve this with pasta or rice?

Definitely. The sauce pairs beautifully with pasta like fettuccine or penne, as well as jasmine or garlic butter rice.

8. How do I know when the chicken is done?

Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The outside should be golden with no pink in the center.

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Conclusion

Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini is the kind of meal that feels indulgent but comes together quickly and easily. It delivers creamy richness, bold seasoning, and a balance of textures that satisfy every craving. Whether you’re cooking for guests, family, or yourself, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen—with minimal stress and maximum reward. Give it a try once, and you’ll find yourself returning to it again and again.

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