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Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta


  • Author: Sally Roberts
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate easy dinner idea. It combines juicy pan-seared chicken, rich Alfredo sauce with a Cajun twist, and tender pasta tossed with spinach and artichokes. Perfect for weeknight meals, this bold and creamy pasta is a satisfying food idea that delivers flavor and comfort in every bite. If you’re searching for dinner ideas that are both indulgent and quick to prepare, this recipe is a winner.


Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

4 tablespoons olive oil, divided

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups baby spinach

1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

12 oz rigatoni or short pasta

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes, optional for garnish


Instructions

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.

Make sure to not overcook the chicken so it stays juicy.

Adjust Cajun spice to taste depending on your spice preference.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 610
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 42g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 19g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 33g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg

Keywords: easy recipe, creamy pasta, cajun chicken, dinner ideas, food ideas