Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo Mac with Crispy Onion Topping

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Crispy, buttery chicken bites paired with creamy Cajun Alfredo macaroni is the kind of dish that makes dinner feel indulgent yet comforting. The chicken is seared until golden, coated in garlicky butter, and perfectly juicy, while the Cajun Alfredo mac brings a smoky kick balanced by rich creaminess. A crunchy onion topping seals the deal, adding layers of flavor and texture.

This recipe is made for those moments when you crave something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a restaurant-worthy meal right at home. It’s comfort food at its finest, ideal for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests with a little Southern-inspired flair.


Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo Mac

  • The balance of creamy, spicy, and buttery flavors makes it irresistible.
  • Crispy onions add a crunch that takes the pasta over the top.
  • It’s a crowd-pleaser—kids, adults, and guests all love it.
  • Easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for special occasions.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Cajun Alfredo Mac?

Macaroni is a classic choice for Alfredo bakes, but you can also use penne or rigatoni to hold onto that creamy Cajun sauce. Short, ridged pasta shapes trap the sauce beautifully, giving every bite full flavor. If you want an extra cozy feel, stick with elbow macaroni for that traditional, homey comfort.


Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo Mac with Crispy Onion Topping

This recipe combines tender chicken, a creamy Cajun Alfredo pasta, and a crunchy onion finish. Each ingredient plays a role in layering flavor and texture.

  • Chicken breast – Lean and juicy, perfect for quick searing into golden bites.
  • Butter – The heart of the garlic sauce, bringing richness and flavor.
  • Garlic cloves – Fresh garlic enhances the butter with a savory punch.
  • Cajun seasoning – Adds smoky spice and depth to the Alfredo sauce.
  • Heavy cream – Creates the creamy base for the Alfredo.
  • Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for sharp, nutty flavor.
  • Elbow macaroni (or penne) – The pasta base that holds the creamy Cajun Alfredo.
  • Crispy fried onions – A crunchy topping that adds contrast to the creamy pasta.
  • Olive oil – Helps sear the chicken evenly.
  • Salt & black pepper – Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.
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How To Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo Mac with Crispy Onion Topping

Follow these steps to create a meal that feels gourmet but comes together quickly.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken breast pieces with salt, pepper, and a little Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken until golden brown on all sides. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Toss the chicken bites back in, coating them in garlicky butter.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Whip Up the Cajun Alfredo Sauce

In a saucepan, heat butter and cream together. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked macaroni in the Cajun Alfredo sauce until evenly coated.

Step 6: Assemble and Top

Serve the Cajun Alfredo mac in bowls, top with garlic butter chicken bites, and sprinkle generously with crispy fried onions for crunch.


Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo Mac with Crispy Onion Topping

This hearty dish is filling enough to serve as the star of dinner. One batch comfortably feeds 4 people, making it perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner with friends.

To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The Alfredo sauce may thicken, so when reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy consistency. For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat. Avoid storing the crispy onions on top—keep them separate and add fresh ones before serving for maximum crunch.


What to Serve With Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo Mac

While this dish is indulgent on its own, pairing it with lighter sides and refreshing options balances the richness beautifully.

1. Garlic Breadsticks

Soft, buttery breadsticks make the perfect tool for scooping up extra Alfredo sauce.

2. Simple Garden Salad

A crisp salad with romaine, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds freshness and crunch.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Caramelized broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus lighten up the plate.

4. Caesar Salad

The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons pair beautifully with creamy Cajun pasta.

5. Steamed Green Beans

A quick and easy side that doesn’t overpower the main dish.

6. Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bring a refreshing, tangy contrast.

7. Cornbread Muffins

A Southern-inspired pairing that ties in with the Cajun flavors.

8. Sparkling Lemon Water

A refreshing drink to cut through the richness of butter and cream.


Want More Comfort Food Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo Mac with Crispy Onion Topping, you’ll enjoy these other cozy pasta dishes too:


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📌 Pin this recipe to your favorite dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how your version turned out. Did you add extra Cajun seasoning for more heat? Or did you keep it mild and creamy?

I love seeing how others put their own spin on my recipes. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated comfort meals and creative dishes on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next kitchen favorite!


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Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo Mac with Crispy Onion Topping

Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo Mac with Crispy Onion Topping


  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 35
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Description

Looking for a bold, comforting dinner that hits every note? Garlic Butter Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo Mac with Crispy Onion Topping is your next crave-worthy recipe. Tender chicken chunks are pan-seared in rich garlic butter, paired with a Cajun-spiced Alfredo macaroni, and finished with a golden crispy onion topping. It’s the kind of dinner that blends indulgence with weeknight practicality. Whether you’re after a quick dinner, a cozy food idea, or easy recipes with wow factor, this dish fits perfectly. Great for casual entertaining, satisfying weeknight meals, or when you need something fast that doesn’t taste rushed.


Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

3 cloves garlic, minced

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

8 ounces elbow macaroni

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 ounces cream cheese

1 cup crispy fried onions


Instructions

1. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

3. Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

5. Stir in cream cheese until melted, then pour in heavy cream. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.

6. Add Parmesan and remaining Cajun seasoning. Stir until sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.

7. Add cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until coated.

8. Top with crispy fried onions just before serving for a crunchy finish.

Notes

For richer flavor, swap chicken breast with boneless chicken thighs.

To reheat leftovers, add a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy consistency.

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

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 19g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 135mg

Keywords: easy dinner, chicken pasta, Cajun Alfredo, comfort food, garlic chicken

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