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Get ready for a plate that brings bold Southern comfort with a gourmet edge. Our Crispy Chicken Bites & Blackened Cajun Alfredo with Roasted Corn Twists is a powerhouse of flavor, combining the smoky heat of Cajun spices with crispy golden chicken and a luxuriously creamy pasta that clings to every twist of fusilli. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent and exciting, yet entirely doable in your own kitchen.
The chicken bites are seasoned and seared to perfection—crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Pair that with creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce draping over roasted corn-studded pasta, and you’ve got a weeknight meal that tastes like a restaurant favorite. Whether you’re craving something bold or trying to impress at your next dinner gathering, this dish absolutely delivers.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Chicken Bites & Blackened Cajun Alfredo
- Texture Heaven: Crunchy chicken, creamy sauce, tender pasta.
- Cajun Kick: That bold, spicy flavor that brings every bite to life.
- Complete Meal: Protein, carbs, and veggies all in one gorgeous plate.
- Versatile: Great for weeknights, meal prepping, or serving to guests.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice, switch the pasta, or try with shrimp!
What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for the Alfredo?
While classic fettuccine is always a go-to for Alfredo, this dish is elevated with fusilli twists, which are perfect for holding onto that luscious Cajun-spiked sauce. The grooves in each spiral collect the creamy goodness, making each bite an explosion of smoky, cheesy flavor. If you don’t have fusilli, penne or rotini would be great alternatives that also grip the sauce well.
Ingredients for the Crispy Chicken Bites & Blackened Cajun Alfredo with Roasted Corn Twists
This dish is layered with bold flavors and contrasting textures. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Boneless Chicken Thighs: Juicy, tender, and more flavorful than breast meat. Perfect for crispy bites.
- Buttermilk: Helps tenderize the chicken and allows the breading to stick better.
- Cajun Seasoning: A bold, spicy blend that brings smoky heat to both chicken and Alfredo sauce.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Adds extra crunch to the chicken coating.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for dredging and building that crispy outer shell.
- Eggs: Act as a binder in the breading process.
- Fusilli Pasta: The twists hold onto the creamy sauce in every bite.
- Sweet Corn Kernels (roasted): Adds a burst of sweetness and texture to the pasta.
- Heavy Cream: Forms the rich, indulgent base of the Alfredo sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding sharpness and depth.
- Butter: Used for sautéing and adding richness.
- Garlic: Brings aromatic warmth to the Alfredo sauce.
- Olive Oil: For cooking the chicken and toasting breadcrumbs.
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish and a fresh pop of color.
- Salt & Black Pepper: To balance and bring out all the flavors.
How To Make the Crispy Chicken Bites & Blackened Cajun Alfredo with Roasted Corn Twists
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine boneless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces) with buttermilk and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Bread and Cook the Chicken
Set up a dredging station with three bowls: flour mixed with a pinch of salt, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs with a dash of Cajun seasoning. Dip each marinated chicken piece into flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Heat olive oil in a skillet and pan-fry until golden and crispy. Set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 3: Boil the Pasta
Cook fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add roasted corn kernels and remaining Cajun seasoning. Stir in Parmesan cheese and pasta water, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add cooked pasta into the Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes so the pasta absorbs the flavor.
Step 6: Plate and Garnish
Serve the creamy pasta alongside the crispy chicken bites. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a crack of black pepper.
How to Serve and Store This Crispy Chicken Bites & Blackened Cajun Alfredo
This dish is hearty and satisfying, feeding about 4 people generously. Serve it hot off the skillet with a generous helping of creamy pasta and a pile of crispy chicken bites on the side. You can drizzle extra Cajun Alfredo sauce over the chicken or keep it as a dipping option for a fun twist.
To store, keep the chicken and pasta separate if possible. Refrigerate leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in an air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness, and warm the pasta on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
What to Serve With Crispy Chicken Bites & Blackened Cajun Alfredo?
Simple Green Salad
The richness of the Alfredo benefits from a crisp, fresh salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette.
Garlic Breadsticks
Warm, buttery breadsticks help mop up all that extra sauce.
Roasted Broccoli
Adds a nice earthy balance and more veggie power to your plate.
Pickled Jalapeños
Their tang and heat provide a sharp contrast to the creamy pasta.
Cornbread Muffins
A Southern-inspired side that complements the Cajun flavors perfectly.
Iced Sweet Tea
Cool, refreshing, and the perfect sip to tame the spice.
Crispy Oven Potato Wedges
Serve them on the side or as a fun alternative to fries.
Grilled Asparagus
Lightly charred and fresh, it balances the dish beautifully.
Want More Comfort Food Pasta Dishes?
If you’re hooked on this bold and creamy combo, you’re going to love these other comfort-packed meals from NoraNosh:
- Try the spicy, cheesy layers of our Buffalo Chicken Lasagna for another twist on classic pasta.
- Craving more one-pan magic? Don’t miss the Creamy Beef and Shells recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- The Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce will satisfy both your pasta and sandwich cravings in one bite.
- Keep things cozy with Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta.
- Or for something truly indulgent, try the Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta that takes comfort food to the next level.
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And I’d love to know how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the Cajun spice? Swap in shrimp? Or maybe added some extra roasted corn?
Let’s make these recipes personal and fun! Share your variations or questions in the comments below.
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Crispy Chicken Bites & Blackened Cajun Alfredo with Roasted Corn Twists
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Large saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 0.75 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 8 ounces fusilli pasta
- 1 cup roasted sweet corn kernels
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate chicken with buttermilk and 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Prepare breading bowls with flour, eggs, and panko mixed with Cajun seasoning. Coat chicken.
- Heat oil and fry chicken pieces until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup water and drain.
- Sauté garlic in butter, then stir in cream, corn, and seasoning. Simmer.
- Add Parmesan and pasta water to make creamy sauce. Toss pasta to coat.
- Serve pasta with chicken bites. Garnish with parsley and black pepper.