If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors, creamy textures, and a touch of smoky goodness, then you’re going to love this Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo and Charred Broccolini Recipe. It’s a mouthwatering combo of tender chicken bites crisped with parmesan, all smothered in a luscious Cajun-spiced Alfredo sauce dotted with sun-dried tomatoes. Paired with beautifully charred broccolini, this meal is both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for any night when you want to impress without hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component, from the aromatic garlic to the zingy Cajun seasoning, plays a crucial role in elevating this dish beyond the ordinary.
- Chicken breast or thighs (1 ½ lbs): Cubed for quick, even cooking with tender results.
- Garlic (3 cloves minced + 2 cloves minced): Provides a fragrant, savory base that infuses both the chicken and the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup + ½ cup grated): Adds a salty, nutty crisp on the chicken and creaminess in the Alfredo.
- Olive oil or butter (2 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon): For searing the chicken and enriching the sauce.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant blend of herbs that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Gives a mild smoky depth without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
- Heavy cream (1 ¼ cups): Creates the velvety base of the Alfredo sauce.
- Cajun seasoning (1 tablespoon): Adds a spicy, zesty kick balanced by the creaminess.
- Sun-dried tomatoes (¼ cup chopped): Introduces a sweet, tangy bite that brightens the sauce.
- Fresh broccolini (1 bunch): Charred for a slightly bitter crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy chicken.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances the flavor of the broccolini during charring.
- Sea salt: For finishing the broccolini perfectly.
How to Make Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo and Charred Broccolini Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the pan warms, season the cubed chicken thoroughly with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and let it cook undisturbed for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure each bite gets a beautiful golden crust. During the last minute, sprinkle the grated parmesan over the chicken so it crisps up delightfully before you transfer the pieces to a plate. This initial sear locks in the flavor and texture that makes these bites irresistibly good.
Step 2: Char the Broccolini to Perfection
Using the same skillet, drizzle in a little more olive oil and add your fresh broccolini. Let it cook without stirring for 2 to 3 minutes to develop those coveted char marks that add complexity and a slight bitterness. Sprinkling garlic powder and sea salt boosts its flavor, then allow it to cook for an additional 2 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Remove and set aside to keep warm while you move on to the sauce.
Step 3: Create the Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and melt butter in the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Immediately stir in the heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Let this mixture simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld perfectly. This sauce is rich, creamy, and flavorful – the ultimate complement to the tender chicken bites.
Step 4: Melt in the Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese and stir continuously until the sauce turns silky smooth and every bit of cheese has melted. This step is what gives the Alfredo its characteristic richness and creamy texture, perfectly balancing the spicy Cajun seasoning and tangy sun-dried tomatoes.
Step 5: Toss Chicken in Alfredo Sauce
Return the crispy chicken bites to the skillet and toss them gently to coat with that decadent sauce. Heat everything together just long enough for the chicken to soak up the flavors before serving.
How to Serve Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo and Charred Broccolini Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a bright pop of color and a fresh note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. A light sprinkle of extra parmesan on top adds that final touch of indulgence.
Side Dishes
This dish is glorious on its own, but serving it alongside garlic buttered rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even al dente pasta helps soak up every drop of the sumptuous sauce. For something lighter, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes a perfect balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, serve the chicken bites and sauce over a bed of spiralized zucchini noodles or creamy polenta. You could even plate the broccolini alongside in small bundles tied with a chive to elevate your dining experience when entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal just as delicious.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to make it ahead for busy days. Store portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken bites and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce looks too thick. Reheat the broccolini separately to retain its charred texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful when cooked, making your Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo and Charred Broccolini Recipe even more tender and succulent.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?
The Cajun seasoning adds a moderate kick, balanced by the creamy Alfredo sauce. You can always adjust the amount to your heat preference to make the dish milder or spicier depending on your taste.
Can I substitute the broccolini with another vegetable?
Yes! Steamed asparagus, green beans, or even sautéed spinach make great alternatives, though broccolini’s slight bitterness and crunch provide a delightful contrast to this dish’s creamy richness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. The components keep well, and reheated leftovers maintain their taste and texture well, making the Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo and Charred Broccolini Recipe a perfect candidate for meal prep.
What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the chicken?
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth, stirring frequently. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery and the sauce separate.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo and Charred Broccolini Recipe that makes it a standout family favorite. Each time I make it, I discover more reasons to love it – the creamy sauce, the perfectly crisped chicken, and that lively charred broccolini all come together so beautifully. I urge you to give this recipe a try; it’s not just a meal, it’s an experience you’ll want to share over and over again.
Print
Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo and Charred Broccolini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites with Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo and Charred Broccolini is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken bites crisped with parmesan, enveloped in a creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce enriched with sun-dried tomatoes. Paired with charred broccolini seasoned with garlic and sea salt, this recipe offers a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and fresh vegetable notes, making it a delightful meal for four.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bites
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breast or thighs, cubed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sun-Dried Tomato Cajun Alfredo Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ¼ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
For the Charred Broccolini
- 1 bunch fresh broccolini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Sea salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare and Season the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika to ensure the meat is flavorful.
- Sear the Chicken: Sear the chicken cubes in the skillet for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. In the last minute of cooking, sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the chicken to allow it to crisp. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate.
- Char the Broccolini: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil, then add the broccolini. Let it cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to get a good char. Sprinkle garlic powder and sea salt, then cook for another 2 minutes until the broccolini is just tender. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Melt butter in the skillet, then sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add Parmesan Cheese to Sauce: Stir in the parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and fully melted, creating a rich and creamy texture.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce and Serve: Return the seared chicken bites to the skillet and toss them in the creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce to coat evenly. Serve hot with the charred broccolini on the side or use as a topping over pasta or rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result or chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
- For extra depth, use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil.
- Broccolini can be replaced with broccoli or asparagus if unavailable.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or enjoy as is for a low-carb option.
- Make sure not to stir broccolini too much while charring to achieve a nice sear.
