Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli

Save this recipe on:

If you’re craving a dish that checks all the boxes—crispy, creamy, smoky, and a little spicy—then these Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites paired with Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli are what your dinner table’s been missing. This duo isn’t just dinner, it’s an experience, giving your taste buds a warm southern hug followed by a savory Italian twist.

Golden, crunchy bites of chicken seasoned and coated in Parmesan breadcrumbs set the stage, while the gemelli pasta swirls in a luxuriously creamy smoked Cajun Alfredo sauce. Whether it’s a weeknight comfort fix or a weekend showstopper, this dish brings big flavors with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli

There’s something downright satisfying about biting into crispy Parmesan chicken that gives way to tender, juicy meat. Add to that a smoky Alfredo sauce with a Cajun kick and perfectly twirled pasta, and you’ve got a plate that delivers flavor on every level.

It comes together quickly and easily, making it perfect for weeknights, yet elegant enough to serve guests. Plus, you get that crispy crunch and creamy contrast all in one meal.

What Kind of Parmesan Should I Use?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is the best choice here. It not only melts better but also has that rich, nutty depth you won’t get from the shelf-stable stuff. If you can get your hands on Parmigiano Reggiano, even better. The sharpness it brings is key to the crust’s irresistible flavor.

Ingredients for the Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli

To bring this dish to life, you’ll want to gather some everyday ingredients that shine when combined. From pantry staples like pasta and breadcrumbs to bold flavors like Cajun spice and smoked paprika, this recipe builds depth with each layer. Freshness counts, so grab the good Parmesan and get ready to cook with confidence.

Chicken breast

Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

Panko breadcrumbs

All-purpose flour

Eggs

Salt & black pepper

Garlic powder

Olive oil

Gemelli pasta

Heavy cream

Cream cheese

Butter

Cajun seasoning

Smoked paprika

Minced garlic

Parmesan cheese (for the sauce)

Fresh parsley

How To Make the Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mix of Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip in egg, and coat with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure it sticks.

Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken bites in batches, turning until crispy and golden. Drain on paper towels and keep warm.

Step 4: Boil the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gemelli pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce

In a skillet, melt butter and cook the minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Add the cream, cream cheese, and shredded Parmesan. Simmer until smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta into the Alfredo sauce until fully coated. Plate with a generous helping of crispy chicken bites on top. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

How to Serve and Store Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli

This dish is satisfying enough to serve as a full dinner on its own. The chicken stays perfectly crispy atop a creamy pasta base that makes each bite indulgent and bold. It feeds about 4 hungry people comfortably, or 6 if served with sides.

To store leftovers, let everything cool completely. Store the chicken separately from the pasta in airtight containers. This keeps the chicken from getting soggy. Reheat the pasta on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk, and warm the chicken in an oven or air fryer to bring back the crunch.

What to Serve With Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli?

Garlic Bread

Buttery, crisp, and loaded with garlic, it’s the classic partner to any creamy pasta.

Caesar Salad

A cool, crisp Caesar helps cut through the richness of the Alfredo and gives a refreshing crunch.

Roasted Broccoli

Tossed in olive oil and roasted until slightly charred, broccoli adds a smoky, earthy balance.

Southern-Style Green Beans

Slow-cooked green beans with bacon or ham bring a cozy Southern comfort alongside the spice of the Cajun sauce.

Creamy Coleslaw

A tangy, creamy slaw provides a great contrast to the heat and adds texture.

Sweet Cornbread Muffins

Their slight sweetness pairs surprisingly well with the Cajun flavor profile.

Grilled Asparagus

Tender with a little char, asparagus complements the smoky Alfredo sauce beautifully.

Pickled Jalapeños

For spice lovers, a few pickled jalapeños on the side offer a zippy bite and keep things interesting.

Want More Chicken & Pasta Ideas?

If you love these Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites with Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli, you’ll definitely want to check out these next-level meals:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe with a velvety tomato-cream sauce.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for fast weeknight satisfaction.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you crave cheesy-meaty indulgence.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta is a comfort food favorite.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta delivers smoky goodness in every bite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 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 tweak the Alfredo heat level? Go all in with the garlic? Double the Parmesan?

I love hearing how others make these dishes their own. Questions are always welcome—let’s share the joy of cooking.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Print

Save this recipe on: