Easy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini

Easy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini

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If you’re craving comfort food with bold flavors, this recipe delivers big time. These garlic-parmesan chicken bites are crispy, juicy, and tossed in a golden buttery sauce that hits all the right notes. Paired with a smoky, slightly sweet sun-dried tomato Cajun Alfredo and served alongside tender-crisp charred broccolini, this dish turns an ordinary dinner into something unforgettable.

Perfect for a weeknight indulgence or a weekend dinner to impress, the layers of flavor in this meal make it feel elevated without being complicated. The combination of Parmesan and garlic is timeless, but when joined by smoky Cajun heat and the richness of Alfredo sauce, it becomes a next-level kind of comfort. The broccolini adds a welcome bitterness and crunch that balances everything beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe

This is one of those dishes that checks all the boxes: it’s quick, it’s satisfying, and it feels gourmet. The chicken bites are seared to golden perfection and finished in a garlicky Parmesan sauce that clings to every piece. The Alfredo, infused with sun-dried tomatoes and Cajun spices, brings a bold twist that keeps each bite exciting. And then there’s the broccolini — blistered just enough to bring out its natural sweetness and contrast.

It’s easy enough for weeknights, indulgent enough for guests, and customizable depending on your heat preferences or protein swaps. You’ll come back to this one again and again.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal. They stay juicy, get wonderfully crispy, and hold up to the bold Alfredo and charred broccolini. That said, if you prefer leaner meat, boneless chicken breast works just fine too — just be careful not to overcook it so it stays tender. Whichever cut you choose, cutting the chicken into bite-size pieces ensures a great sear and even cooking.

Ingredients for the Easy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe

To build a meal with this much flavor, each ingredient plays a role in layering depth and balance. From the savory punch of Parmesan to the smoky Cajun spice in the Alfredo, every element has its place. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Chicken thighs — For juicy, flavorful bites that sear beautifully and hold their texture.
  • Garlic — The essential backbone of the sauce, bringing warmth and fragrance.
  • Parmesan cheese — Adds saltiness, nuttiness, and body to the garlic butter coating.
  • Butter — For richness and the perfect base to carry the garlic-Parmesan sauce.
  • Heavy cream — Used in the Alfredo, it creates a silky, indulgent texture.
  • Sun-dried tomatoes — Packed with umami and sweetness, they deepen the Alfredo’s flavor.
  • Cajun seasoning — Brings boldness and just the right amount of heat.
  • Pasta of your choice — To serve as the creamy base for the Alfredo.
  • Broccolini — Its slightly bitter, earthy profile complements the rich sauce and chicken.
  • Olive oil — Helps achieve that perfect char on the broccolini and sear on the chicken.
  • Salt and pepper — To enhance all the natural flavors.
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Easy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini

How To Make the Easy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Sear the Chicken

Cut your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season them generously with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken in batches until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic-Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat and add butter. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add freshly grated Parmesan and stir until it melts into the butter, creating a creamy, flavorful sauce. Return the chicken to the pan and toss to coat evenly.

Step 3: Create the Cajun Alfredo

In a separate saucepan, melt butter and stir in sun-dried tomatoes and Cajun seasoning. Add heavy cream and simmer gently. Once warmed through, stir in more Parmesan until the sauce thickens. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing well to combine.

Step 4: Char the Broccolini

Toss broccolini with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Heat a grill pan or cast iron skillet until smoking hot, then add the broccolini. Cook until lightly charred and tender-crisp, flipping occasionally.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Plate the Cajun Alfredo pasta first, then top with garlic-Parmesan chicken bites. Serve broccolini on the side or tuck it in among the pasta. Finish with extra Parmesan and a crack of black pepper if desired.

How to Serve and Store Easy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe

This recipe yields enough to feed four hungry people generously. To serve, pile the Alfredo pasta on a plate, layer with the golden garlic-Parmesan chicken, and finish with the smoky broccolini for contrast. It’s a full meal on one plate that feels satisfying and elevated without fuss.

If you have leftovers, store them in separate airtight containers to keep the textures just right. The chicken bites and pasta will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. The broccolini is best eaten fresh but can be quickly reheated in a skillet to bring back its char. When reheating the Alfredo pasta, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve With Easy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe?

Roasted Garlic Bread

Warm, crusty garlic bread makes an excellent addition to soak up that luscious Alfredo sauce.

Mixed Greens Salad

A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing bite to balance out the richness of the dish.

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta

If you’re feeding a crowd or just love variety, adding this pasta offers another layer of cozy, creamy goodness.

Classic Caprese Salad

Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil help lighten up the meal with vibrant acidity.

Parmesan Crusted Zucchini

Crispy, cheesy, and oven-roasted, these pair beautifully with the same flavor notes found in the chicken bites.

Mashed Cauliflower

A low-carb creamy side that mimics mashed potatoes but with a lighter touch.

White Wine

Something dry and crisp like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio lifts the creamy sauce and adds elegance to the plate.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this garlic-Parmesan chicken with bold Alfredo and broccolini, you’ll want to explore more recipes that bring creativity to your dinner table:

  • Try the Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl for a fresh take with wholesome grains and greens.
  • Make weeknights easier with the cozy No Peek Chicken Casserole.
  • The White Chicken Enchilada Casserole delivers creamy comfort with a Tex-Mex twist.
  • Enjoy crispy bliss in Irresistible Cheesy Chicken Crescent Rolls.
  • Or go creamy and indulgent with Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes, and Mushrooms.

Each of these brings something new while keeping prep manageable and flavor front and center.

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 add mushrooms or swap the protein? Did you go heavy on the Cajun or keep it mild?

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

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

Conclusion

This easy garlic-Parmesan chicken bites recipe takes comfort food and gives it bold, modern flavor. From the Cajun Alfredo with sun-dried tomatoes to the perfectly charred broccolini, each component complements the others while standing on its own. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just need a great dinner after a long day, this one deserves a spot in your regular rotation.

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Easy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini

Easy Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites Recipe with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo & Charred Broccolini


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  • Author: Janet Reynolds
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This easy garlic-Parmesan chicken bites recipe with sun-dried tomato Cajun Alfredo and charred broccolini is a bold, creamy, and flavorful dinner perfect for weeknights or guests. Features juicy chicken thighs, garlicky Parmesan butter, and smoky Alfredo pasta.


Ingredients

1 ½ lbs chicken thighs

4 cloves garlic, minced

¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

4 tablespoons butter

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

8 oz pasta of your choice

1 bunch broccolini

2 tablespoons olive oil

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper


Instructions

1. Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkle of Cajun seasoning.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken in batches until golden and fully cooked. Set aside.

3. In the same skillet, reduce heat and melt 2 tablespoons butter. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

4. Add ½ cup Parmesan cheese and stir until a sauce forms. Toss cooked chicken in the sauce to coat.

5. In a separate saucepan, melt remaining butter. Add sun-dried tomatoes and Cajun seasoning. Stir in heavy cream and simmer.

6. Add ¼ cup Parmesan and stir until sauce thickens. Toss in cooked pasta until well coated.

7. Toss broccolini with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Char in a hot grill pan or skillet until tender-crisp and lightly blistered.

8. Plate Alfredo pasta, top with chicken bites, and add broccolini. Garnish with more Parmesan and black pepper if desired.

Notes

Use boneless chicken thighs for juicy results.

Add a splash of cream when reheating leftovers to refresh the sauce.

Control heat by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg

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