Crispy Parmesan Chicken Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines all the best elements of a comforting meal. Crispy Parmesan-coated chicken bites offer crunch and flavor, while the creamy, smoky Cajun Alfredo sauce adds a rich, spicy kick to the pasta. The blend of textures—crispy chicken with smooth pasta—is irresistible, and the Cajun seasoning gives the dish a unique smoky depth. It’s easy to make, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect dinner choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs (beaten)

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 0.5 teaspoon salt

• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

• 8 ounces gemelli pasta

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1.5 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

• Optional: lemon juice (for brightness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Set up your dredging station with three bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko mixed with grated Parmesan cheese.

2. Dredge chicken pieces in the seasoned flour, dip them in the eggs, then coat in the panko-Parmesan mixture. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.

3. Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Stir in Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Keep warm on low heat.

6. Boil gemelli pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain the rest.

7. Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce. Add pasta water as needed to adjust the consistency.

8. Plate the pasta, top with crispy chicken bites, and garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 4 servings

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add extra Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes for more heat.

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and try this recipe with crispy fried tofu or vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.

• Different Pasta: While gemelli is great for this dish, you can also use other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni.

• Baked Chicken: For a lighter version, bake the chicken on a wire rack at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes instead of frying it.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy consistency of the Alfredo sauce. You can also reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to keep it crispy.

FAQs

1. How do I make the chicken crispy without frying?

You can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) on a wire rack for an even crisp. This method helps the chicken cook through and become crispy without the need for frying.

2. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese works best in this recipe because it melts smoother and has a better flavor. Pre-grated cheese can be used, but the texture and flavor will not be as rich.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and Alfredo sauce ahead of time and reheat before serving. Cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to assemble.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

This dish is best eaten fresh, but you can freeze the chicken and Alfredo sauce separately. The pasta can become mushy after freezing, so it’s better to cook that fresh when you’re ready to serve.

5. How can I make the sauce spicier?

To increase the heat, add extra Cajun seasoning, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes. You can adjust it to your taste.

6. What type of pasta can I use instead of gemelli?

Any short pasta shape works well in this recipe, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. These shapes hold the creamy sauce beautifully.

7. Can I make the sauce lighter?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version of the sauce, but it may not be as rich and creamy.

8. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, add more Parmesan cheese or let it simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken.

9. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, vegetables like sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers would complement the dish well and add more flavor and nutrition.

10. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work just as well in this recipe. They will be even juicier and still crisp up nicely when fried.

Conclusion

Crispy Parmesan Chicken Bites with Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli is the ultimate comfort food, combining the crunch of golden chicken and the creamy, smoky depth of Cajun-spiced Alfredo pasta. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and satisfying texture. Plus, it’s easily customizable and can be stored for future meals, making it a great go-to for busy days.

Print