Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta

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This Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta is a flavor-packed comfort food dish that brings together crispy seared chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, Cajun spices, and the richness of spinach and artichoke hearts. Each bite offers a beautiful contrast of textures, from the tender pasta to the pan-crisped chicken, balanced perfectly by the velvety sauce.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing dinner guests, this dish delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home. The garlic chicken is quick to prepare and juicy with just the right char, while the pasta is indulgently creamy with layers of savory flavor. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta

This recipe checks all the boxes for a hearty, easy dinner. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor from Cajun seasoning and roasted garlic. The artichoke and spinach combo brings a sophisticated twist to classic Alfredo pasta. Plus, it’s all made in under 45 minutes.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Recipe?

Short, ridged pastas like rigatoni or rotini work best because they hold onto the sauce. You want every curl or crevice to soak up that creamy Alfredo and Cajun spice combo. Penne and cavatappi are also fantastic alternatives.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta

Each ingredient in this dish plays a vital role, adding texture, flavor, or richness to elevate the meal:

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): Lean protein that crisps up beautifully and absorbs the Cajun seasoning.
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: Brings smoky, spicy flavor that contrasts the creamy sauce.
• 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Used for searing the chicken and sauteing garlic and vegetables.
• 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with robust flavor.
• 2 cups baby spinach: Adds freshness and color to the creamy base.
• 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts (drained and chopped): Adds briny depth and tender texture.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Enhances the richness of the sauce.
• 2 cups heavy cream: Forms the base of the Alfredo sauce for creamy consistency.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• 12 oz rigatoni or short pasta: Hearty pasta that grabs onto the sauce well.
• Salt and black pepper (to taste): For seasoning and flavor balance.
• Fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes (optional for garnish): Adds color, heat, and a touch of brightness.

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How To Make the Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Garlic Chicken Bites

Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Saute Aromatics and Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and butter. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Then add chopped artichokes and cook for another 2 minutes. Toss in the spinach and cook until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce

Lower heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to deglaze the pan. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (usually 10-12 minutes). Drain and reserve 1/4 cup pasta water.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta into the sauce, tossing to coat. Use pasta water to thin sauce if needed. Return chicken bites on top and warm through for 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.

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How to Serve and Store Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or entertaining. Serve it hot in shallow bowls so the sauce pools beautifully.

To store, cool completely and refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving the chicken too long to keep it tender.

What to Serve With Garlic Chicken Bites and Pasta?

H3: Garlic Bread with Cheese

Crispy and buttery, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

H3: Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus

Adds balance and freshness to the creamy pasta.

H3: Side Caesar Salad

The crunch and tanginess of Caesar salad pairs well with the richness.

H3: Balsamic Glazed Roasted Carrots

Sweet and tangy carrots are a great contrast to Cajun spices.

H3: Sparkling Lemonade or Iced Tea

Refreshing drinks help cool down the Cajun heat.

H3: Strawberry Spinach Salad

A fruity, bright salad with a pop of sweetness.

H3: Parmesan-Crusted Zucchini Rounds

Light and crispy, ideal as a veggie side dish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding to the pan.

2. Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild kick from the Cajun seasoning. You can tone it down or amp it up based on your preference.

3. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be thinner. Add more cheese to thicken it up.

4. Is this dish gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

5. Can I make it ahead?

You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead, but cook pasta fresh for best texture. Store components separately.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use rigatoni or try penne? Did you toss in extra red pepper flakes?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Conclusion

Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta is a dish that delivers bold flavor, creamy comfort, and weeknight ease all in one. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or a weekend gathering, it’s sure to be a hit.

Looking for more easy pasta dinner ideas or bold Cajun fusion meals? Check out these favorites:

• Creamy Cajun Beef Spaghetti with Three Cheese Parmesan Sauce
• Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Savory Cajun Ground Beef in Garlic Cream
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
• Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo

And for even more meal inspiration, visit my Pinterest for daily updates and easy recipe saves: Meals We Share

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