Description

If you’re craving bold flavors and serious comfort, Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo Mac with Crispy Onion Topping is exactly what you need. Juicy garlic-seared chicken, creamy Cajun-spiced Alfredo pasta, and a golden crispy onion crunch make this an unforgettable dinner idea. It’s a quick dinner recipe that comes together in under an hour and feels like something you’d order at your favorite restaurant. Whether you’re exploring new weeknight food ideas or looking for a hearty, easy recipe for guests, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It fits right into your list of easy dinner ideas or indulgent comfort food recipes.

Ingredients

1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts

2 cups elbow macaroni

1 tablespoon olive oil

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)

1 cup heavy cream

¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup crispy fried onions

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat dry. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning.

2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Stir in half the minced garlic during the last 30 seconds. Remove chicken and set aside.

3. Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.

4. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add remaining garlic and cook until fragrant.

5. Stir in heavy cream, remaining Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.

6. Reduce heat and stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Thin sauce with pasta water if needed.

7. Add drained macaroni and toss to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning to taste.

8. Plate pasta and top with garlic butter chicken. Sprinkle crispy fried onions over the top and garnish with chopped parsley.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth and creamy sauce.

Let the chicken rest a minute before slicing for juicier bites.

Start light on the Cajun seasoning and adjust to your spice preference.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1¼ cups
Calories: 620
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 33g
Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: garlic butter chicken, cajun alfredo mac, easy dinner, creamy pasta, chicken pasta recipe, comfort food