Description
Craving something crispy, creamy, and bursting with bold flavor? These Crispy Parmesan Chicken Bites with Smoked Cajun Alfredo hit every craving with crunchy golden bites of chicken paired with a smoky, spiced Alfredo sauce over pasta. It’s an easy dinner idea that feels indulgent yet achievable—even on a busy night. Whether you need a quick dinner, comforting food ideas, or a new spin on Alfredo, this easy recipe brings the flavor without the fuss. Great for both weeknight meals and special occasions, it’s one of those crowd-pleasers you’ll want on repeat.
Ingredients
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cooking oil for frying
12 ounces fettuccine pasta
2 tablespoons butter
1 ½ cups heavy cream
3 cloves garlic minced
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Set up three bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Dredge chicken in flour, dip into egg, then coat in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture.
4. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden and cooked through, about 3–4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook fettuccine until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
6. In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. If needed, thin the sauce with reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
9. Toss cooked pasta with Alfredo sauce.
10. Serve pasta topped with crispy chicken bites and optional parsley for garnish.
Notes
Let breaded chicken rest for 5 minutes before frying to help the coating set.
Use freshly grated Parmesan in the sauce for the best melt and flavor.
Adjust Cajun spice levels to taste—start small and build up the heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying and sautéing
- Cuisine: American-Cajun fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 940mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
Keywords: crispy chicken alfredo, quick dinner, comfort food, easy recipe, bold flavors