Directions:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the twisted pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chicken bites, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer, then whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until the sauce is thick and creamy. Stir in Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes, adjusting seasoning to your taste. Season with salt and pepper.
Add cooked twisted pasta to the skillet with the spicy Alfredo sauce. Toss well to coat all pasta with the creamy, cheesy, spicy sauce.
Return chicken bites to the skillet and toss gently to combine. Let everything warm together for 2 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.🌟 20 Best Tips 🌟
1️⃣ Cut chicken uniformly:
Bite-sized, evenly cut chicken cooks more evenly.
2️⃣ Don’t over-cook chicken:
Remove once it’s just fully cooked to avoid toughness.
3️⃣ Saute in batches:
Avoid overcrowding to allow proper browning.
4️⃣ Save pan drippings:
The fond adds deep flavor to the sauce.
5️⃣ Remove chicken while making sauce:
Prevention from overcooking.
6️⃣ Use heavy cream:
Provides a rich, creamy base.
7️⃣ Parmesan melts best:
Freshly grated melts smoother into the sauce.
8️⃣ Adjust Cajun to taste:
Start small; you can always add more.
9️⃣ Pasta water:
Save a bit of cooking water in case the sauce thickens too much.
🔟 Add mozzarella last:
Prevention of a stringy texture.
11️⃣ Reduce red pepper flakes if you prefer milder:
Start with 1/4 teaspoon and add if you want more.
12️⃣ Saute garlic briefly:
Don’t let it brown; it will turn bitter.
13️⃣ Don’t over-cook the sauce:
Remove from heat once thick and creamy.
14️⃣ Pair with a side:
A simple green salad cuts through rich sauce nicely.
15️⃣ Garnish:
Chopped parsley adds color and a fresh flavor.
16️⃣ Consider adding veggies:
Peppers or broccoli for texture.
17️⃣ Protein swap:
Shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
18️⃣ Non-dairy:
Substitute heavy cream with coconut or cashew cream.
19️⃣ Gluten-free:
Using a gluten-free pasta makes this a perfect meal for everyone.
20️⃣ Leftovers:
Store in a covered container and refrigerate; it reheats well.
🍪 20 FAQ (with answers) 🌟
1️⃣ Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
✅ Absolutely — thighs are more tender and rich in flavor.
2️⃣ How much Cajun should I add if I like it less spicy?
✅ Start with 1/2 teaspoon and taste from there.
3️⃣ Can I omit the heavy cream?
✅ You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy substitute.
4️⃣ What kind of pasta works best?
✅ Twisted varieties (fusilli, rotini) hold the sauce well.
5️⃣ Can I make this a day in advance?
✅ Yes — just store in the fridge and reheat gently.
6️⃣ How to reheat without drying it out?
✅ Add a small amount of milk or chicken broth when reheating.
7️⃣ Can I freeze it?
✅ It’s not recommended; creamy sauces can separate upon freezing.
8️⃣ Is this meal kid-friendly?
✅ If you omit or reduce chili flakes and Cajun, it’s milder.
9️⃣ How much Parmesan should I use?
✅ 1 cup, freshly grated, for a rich texture.
🔟 Can I add veggies?
✅ Broccoli, peppers, or spinach are great add-ins.
11️⃣ How do I know chicken is fully cooked?
✅ It should be 165°F internally and no longer pink.
12️⃣ Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?
✅ Monterey Jack or provolone would work nicely.
13️⃣ How much paprika should I use if I want more color?
✅ You can add a bit more; just watch for overpowering flavor.
14️⃣ Can I cut back on butter?
✅ The butter adds richness; you can reduce it, but it may affect texture.
15️⃣ Can I use a plant-based chicken substitute?
✅ Absolutely — just adjust cooking time.
16️⃣ How can I make it less creamy?
✅ Reduce heavy cream or add a bit of chicken broth.
17️⃣ Can I use a different noodle, like spaghetti or penne?
✅ Anything you like — just adjust cooking time.
18️⃣ How much garlic is enough if I love it garlicky?
✅ Feel free to add additional cloves — 5 or 6 — for a stronger flavor.
19️⃣ Can I omit the red pepper flakes altogether?
✅ Definitely — it will be rich and creamy without the kick.
20️⃣ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
✅ 3–4 days in a covered container.
