Description

Crispy meets creamy in this irresistible Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli Delight. Tender chicken is coated in a golden Parmesan-panko crust, paired with a smoky Cajun-spiced Alfredo sauce over perfectly cooked Gemelli pasta. This easy dinner recipe is full of bold flavors and textures, making it a standout for both weeknight meals and special occasions. If you’re searching for quick dinner ideas, comfort food with a twist, or a creamy pasta recipe, this one’s a must-try.

Ingredients

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 large eggs

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

10 ounces Gemelli pasta

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 ½ cups heavy cream

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Oil for frying or baking

Instructions

1. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

2. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of Parmesan, panko, and Cajun seasoning.

3. Dredge chicken in flour, dip in eggs, then coat with Parmesan-breadcrumb mix.

4. Cook chicken: either pan-fry in oil (3–4 min per side) or bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

5. Cook Gemelli pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.

6. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Toast Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika for 30 seconds.

7. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until sauce is smooth. Season to taste.

8. Toss cooked pasta in Alfredo sauce. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.

9. Plate Alfredo Gemelli with crispy chicken bites on the side. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture in both the crust and Alfredo sauce.

Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying—the chicken needs space to crisp up.

Add pasta water a little at a time to prevent over-thinning the Alfredo sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-Fried / Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 1 cup pasta + 5–6 chicken bites)
Calories: 780
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 45g
Cholesterol: 185mg

Keywords: crispy chicken bites, cajun alfredo, creamy pasta, easy dinner, parmesan chicken, comfort food