Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta

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Imagine tender, juicy garlic chicken bites seared to perfection, served over creamy Cajun Alfredo pasta swirled with spinach and artichoke. This dish is the love child of your favorite Italian pasta and a rich Southern twist—the kind of comfort meal you crave on cool nights or need after a long day. Each bite is buttery, garlicky, and packed with bold flavor from the Cajun spice and tangy artichokes.

The creamy Alfredo sauce clings to the swirly pasta, while pops of red pepper flakes and golden seared chicken make every forkful a masterpiece. Best of all, it comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight indulgence or a special dinner at home.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta

This dish is ultra-comforting, thanks to its rich creamy base and satisfying protein-packed chicken. The Cajun seasoning brings a little heat, while spinach and artichokes balance the richness with earthy and tangy notes. You’ll love how the textures play together—tender chicken, silky sauce, soft artichokes, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a full meal in one pan, minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.

What Type of Pasta Works Best for This Recipe?

Short pastas like cavatappi, rotini, or penne are ideal for this creamy Alfredo because their ridges and curves trap all that luscious sauce. You can absolutely swap in fettuccine or linguine if that’s what you have on hand, but the curlier the pasta, the more sauce you get in each bite.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta

Chicken Breast: Provides a lean, tender bite and absorbs the Cajun flavor beautifully.

Garlic: Essential for both the chicken marinade and base of the Alfredo sauce.

Olive Oil & Butter: Olive oil for searing the chicken, butter for the sauce—a rich flavor duo.

Cajun Seasoning: Adds a kick of smoky heat and depth to the dish.

Heavy Cream: Makes the Alfredo ultra-creamy and indulgent.

Parmesan Cheese: Brings the salty, nutty flavor to the sauce, thickening it naturally.

Cream Cheese: For extra richness and a slight tang that balances the heat.

Spinach: A vibrant green veggie that wilts beautifully into the sauce.

Artichoke Hearts: Add texture and tang, complementing the creamy richness.

Pasta: Cavatappi or similar to soak up the sauce in every swirl.

Red Pepper Flakes & Fresh Parsley: Optional garnishes that add heat and freshness.

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How To Make the Garlic Chicken Bites and Creamy Cajun Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Season them generously with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Alfredo Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese until melted. Slowly pour in heavy cream, whisking to combine, followed by Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add Veggies

Fold in chopped spinach and artichoke hearts. Cook until the spinach wilts and artichokes are warmed through (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While making the sauce, cook your pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve a little pasta water.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, use a splash of pasta water to loosen it. Nestle the seared chicken bites on top or stir them in.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top with extra Parmesan, red pepper flakes, and chopped parsley. Serve hot and creamy.

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Serving Suggestions for This Flavorful Pasta

This recipe yields about 4 hearty servings or feeds 4 to 6 people depending on appetite. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a small gathering. Serve it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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Storing Your Leftovers the Right Way

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the sauciness. This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy-based sauce, but it makes incredible next-day lunches.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. Just trim the excess fat and adjust cook time slightly if they’re thicker.

Is this recipe spicy?
Mildly spicy. The Cajun seasoning gives warmth but not overwhelming heat. Add or reduce red pepper flakes to taste.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Omit the chicken and add mushrooms or more spinach/artichokes. You could also stir in some white beans for protein.

Can I substitute milk for heavy cream?
You can, but it won’t be as rich or thick. A mix of milk and a little flour or cornstarch can help mimic the texture.

What’s the best way to reheat this pasta?
Reheat on low heat in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream, stirring until warmed through. Microwave works too, but watch it doesn’t overcook the chicken.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this creamy Cajun pasta, here are more cozy dinner recipes to dive into:

• Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Bake
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
• Alfredo Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
• Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the spice or keep it creamy and mild? Did you swap in kale or try sun-dried tomatoes?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook with confidence.

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