Craving a bold and creamy pasta dish with a twist? This Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta is the perfect fusion of comfort food and zesty flavor. Juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken bites, creamy Alfredo sauce, and the irresistible combo of spinach and artichokes make every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, easy recipes to impress guests, or weeknight dinner solutions, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s rich, indulgent, and surprisingly simple to pull together — a must-try for fans of flavorful pasta and cozy meals!
This rich pasta dish not only delivers on flavor but also stands out for its versatility and ease of preparation. The combination of succulent chicken and vibrant vegetables in a creamy Alfredo sauce creates a satisfying plate that can easily become a favorite in your household. With its tantalizing heat from the Cajun seasoning and the comforting creamy texture, each forkful is a delectable treat. Whether you are cooking for family or hosting a gathering, this recipe promises to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta
- Delicious Flavor: The Cajun seasoning adds a bold kick to the savory chicken, perfectly complementing the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Quick and Easy: With only 50 minutes needed from prep to plate, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Spinach, artichokes, and garlic combine to elevate the taste, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Customizable: This dish can easily be adapted using different proteins or vegetables based on your preference.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
To ensure a smooth cooking experience, start by organizing your kitchen and gathering all your tools and ingredients. Begin by chopping the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, which will help them cook more evenly. You’ll need a large pot for boiling the pasta and a skillet for preparing the sauce and chicken. A wooden spoon or spatula will be essential for stirring, and a measuring cup for the cream and pasta water will help maintain consistency in the sauce’s texture.
Ensure you have a pot of salted water on the stove ready to boil for the pasta, as this will save you precious time. Pre-measuring the olive oil, butter, and spices can simplify the cooking process. If you prefer to avoid lumps in your sauce, let the cream cheese come to room temperature before adding it to the Alfredo sauce. This simple step will enhance the creaminess of your final dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 12 oz cavatappi or penne pasta
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking. In a mixing bowl, combine the cut chicken with Cajun seasoning, half of the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This step allows the chicken to absorb the flavors while you prep the other ingredients, enhancing the overall dish.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add your choice of cavatappi or penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until the pasta reaches an al dente texture. Be sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta; this starchy water is vital for adjusting the sauce consistency later on.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter along with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet and sear them until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside to rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. This infuses the butter and oil with a rich garlic flavor. Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir in the softened cream cheese, allowing it to completely melt and combine into a creamy mixture. Be patient, as this will take a few minutes.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Afterward, introduce the grated Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring continuously. Allow the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken. Adjust the seasoning by tasting; you might want to add additional Cajun seasoning or a pinch of salt and pepper. If the sauce appears too thick, incorporate a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 6: Add Vegetables
Fold in the chopped spinach and artichoke hearts into the sauce. Stir until the spinach wilts and the artichokes are heated through, creating a beautiful contrast of color against the creamy background. This step adds nutritional value while enhancing the dish’s flavor.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Chicken
Finally, return the cooked pasta and seared chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to ensure the sauce evenly coats the pasta and chicken. You can adjust the heat if needed to ensure everything is hot but not overcooked.
Step 8: Serve
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and chili flakes if desired, to bring in an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color. Serve hot, and relish the compliments!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, grilled sausage, or even tofu for a plant-based version.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggies and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for additional heat.
Cooking Notes
- For a creamier sauce, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before using.
- Always reserve some pasta water; it’s great for adjusting the sauce’s thickness.
- Feel free to taste and adjust seasonings at each stage for the best depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp side salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Pair with garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to please!
Tips
- Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors penetrate.
- If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, a mix of paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder works well in a pinch.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 580
- Protein: 38g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just reheat and combine before serving, adding a little pasta water if necessary to loosen the sauce.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can create a similar flavor profile using a mixture of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding cream as needed to restore the sauce.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spiciness largely depends on the amount of Cajun seasoning used; adjust to your taste preference for a milder or spicier dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta is a dish that beautifully marries comfort with bold flavors. The savory chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh vegetables create a meal that appeals to a wide range of palates. Whether you are making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, you can confidently serve this dish knowing it delivers both on taste and simplicity. We hope you try this recipe and enjoy it as much as we do! Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below, and feel free to try variations to make it your own!
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Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This bold and creamy pasta dish merges comfort with zesty flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 12 oz cavatappi or penne pasta
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking. In a mixing bowl, combine the cut chicken with Cajun seasoning, half of the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This step allows the chicken to absorb the flavors while you prep the other ingredients, enhancing the overall dish.
- Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add your choice of cavatappi or penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until the pasta reaches an al dente texture. Be sure to reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta; this starchy water is vital for adjusting the sauce consistency later on.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter along with a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet and sear them until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside to rest while you prepare the sauce.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. This infuses the butter and oil with a rich garlic flavor. Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir in the softened cream cheese, allowing it to completely melt and combine into a creamy mixture. Be patient, as this will take a few minutes.
- Afterward, introduce the grated Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring continuously. Allow the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken. Adjust the seasoning by tasting; you might want to add additional Cajun seasoning or a pinch of salt and pepper. If the sauce appears too thick, incorporate a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Fold in the chopped spinach and artichoke hearts into the sauce. Stir until the spinach wilts and the artichokes are heated through, creating a beautiful contrast of color against the creamy background. This step adds nutritional value while enhancing the dish’s flavor.
- Finally, return the cooked pasta and seared chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to ensure the sauce evenly coats the pasta and chicken. You can adjust the heat if needed to ensure everything is hot but not overcooked.
- Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley and chili flakes if desired, to bring in an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color. Serve hot, and relish the compliments!
Notes
For a creamier sauce, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before using. Always reserve some pasta water; it’s great for adjusting the sauce’s thickness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Protein: 38 g