Nora
If you’re looking for a dinner that bursts with flavor and feels like a restaurant-quality dish, this Garlic Chili Oil Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo with Charred Zucchini Twists will win your heart. Juicy chicken bites coated in a garlicky, spicy chili oil get perfectly seared for a smoky edge, while creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce clings to spiral pasta for a rich, comforting bite. The charred zucchini twists balance the dish with a fresh and slightly crisp texture, making every mouthful a perfect medley of flavors.
This dish isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience. The boldness of chili oil and Cajun spice meld beautifully with the creaminess of Alfredo sauce, creating a comforting yet exciting meal. The zucchini adds a lightness that keeps the plate from feeling heavy, making it perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or even impressing guests.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Chili Oil Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo with Charred Zucchini Twists
You’ll love this recipe for its perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and freshness. The chili oil brings a bold kick, but the Alfredo cools it down just enough to keep it family-friendly. It’s quick to make, ready in under an hour, and uses simple ingredients you probably already have at home. Plus, it’s customizable—make it spicier, creamier, or add extra veggies to suit your taste.
Can I Use Store-Bought Chili Oil or Should I Make My Own?
Both options work great! Store-bought chili oil is perfect for convenience, especially if you’re short on time. But making your own lets you control the heat level and infuse fresh garlic flavor exactly the way you like. If you have 10 extra minutes, homemade chili oil can elevate the dish even more.
Ingredients for the Garlic Chili Oil Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo with Charred Zucchini Twists
Every ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture in this dish:
- Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Tender, juicy protein that soaks up the chili oil beautifully.
- Chili Oil – The star of the chicken bites, adding heat, smokiness, and garlicky richness.
- Fresh Garlic – Infuses deep aromatic flavor into both the chicken and Alfredo sauce.
- Cajun Seasoning – Adds a bold, slightly smoky kick to the creamy Alfredo.
- Heavy Cream & Parmesan Cheese – Create a luscious, velvety Alfredo sauce.
- Butter – Helps sear the chicken and enrich the sauce.
- Fusilli or Rotini Pasta – Twisted pasta holds onto every bit of creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Zucchini – Lightly charred and twisted into spirals for a fresh, slightly smoky veggie side.
- Olive Oil & Salt – Essential for roasting the zucchini to perfection.
- Parsley – Brightens the dish and adds a fresh, herby finish.
How To Make the Garlic Chili Oil Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo with Charred Zucchini Twists
Step 1: Marinate and Sear the Chicken Bites
Coat chicken pieces in chili oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes. Sear in a hot skillet until golden brown and slightly charred on the edges.
Step 2: Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter, then sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and Cajun seasoning, letting it simmer until slightly thickened. Add grated Parmesan and whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Boil fusilli or rotini until al dente. Drain, then toss directly into the Cajun Alfredo sauce so it absorbs all the creamy goodness.
Step 4: Char the Zucchini Twists
Toss spiralized zucchini with olive oil, salt, and a pinch of Cajun seasoning. Char quickly in a hot pan or grill pan for just a few minutes until tender-crisp.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Plate the pasta, top with juicy garlic chili chicken bites, and arrange zucchini twists on the side. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Serving and Storing Garlic Chili Oil Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo with Charred Zucchini Twists
This recipe serves 4 people generously, making it perfect for a family dinner or a cozy dinner with friends. Serve immediately while the Alfredo is creamy and the zucchini has that fresh charred bite.
To store, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to bring the Alfredo sauce back to life. The zucchini is best enjoyed fresh but can be lightly reheated.
What to Serve With Garlic Chili Oil Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo with Charred Zucchini Twists?
Garlic Bread with Herbs
Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every bit of creamy Alfredo sauce.
Simple Green Salad
A light salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the Cajun Alfredo.
Roasted Bell Peppers
Sweet and smoky roasted peppers complement the chili oil’s heat.
Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Crispy potatoes with a sprinkle of Parmesan make a comforting side.
Tomato Basil Soup
A warm, tangy soup that pairs well with the spicy and creamy flavors.
Pickled Jalapeños
For spice lovers, add a sharp, tangy bite to the meal.
Fresh Lemon Wedges
A squeeze of lemon over the chicken brightens every bite.
Iced Tea or Lemonade
A cool, refreshing drink to balance the heat from the chili oil.
Want More Chicken & Pasta Dinner Ideas?
If you loved this bold and creamy dish, here are more comforting dinner ideas you’ll enjoy:
- Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna for a seafood twist with garlicky richness.
- Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken if you crave crispy, cheesy chicken with a tangy topping.
- Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for another velvety Alfredo variation.
- One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta when you want a hearty, smoky one-pan dinner.
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta for a romantic, creamy chicken pasta dish.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can make it anytime you’re craving a creamy, spicy, and savory chicken pasta dinner.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go heavy on the chili oil or keep it mild? Did you try adding extra veggies?
I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter and tastier meals.
Explore beautifully curated dinner and pasta ideas on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and find your next go-to family favorite!
Garlic Chili Oil Chicken Bites & Cajun Alfredo with Charred Zucchini Twists
Ingredients
- 400 g chicken thighs or breasts, cubed
- 3 tbsp chili oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 300 g fusilli or rotini pasta
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- Toss chicken with chili oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Rest 15 minutes, then sear until golden and slightly charred.
- Melt butter, sauté garlic, add cream and Cajun seasoning. Simmer until thickened, then stir in Parmesan.
- Boil pasta until al dente, drain, and toss in Alfredo sauce.
- Toss zucchini with olive oil, salt, and Cajun seasoning. Char for 2–3 minutes.
- Plate pasta, top with chicken bites, add zucchini, and garnish with parsley.