Tanya Rivers
If you’re craving a dish that delivers bold flavors and comfort in every bite, these Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites with Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists are a must-try. Juicy chicken pieces are coated with zesty lemon pepper seasoning and pan-seared to perfection, creating a crispy outside and tender, flavorful inside.
Paired with creamy rotini pasta tossed in a smoky roasted red pepper Cajun Alfredo sauce, this recipe balances the tanginess of citrusy chicken with the rich creaminess of the pasta. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma make this a show-stopping dish for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This meal isn’t just delicious; it’s an experience. From the crunchy, well-seasoned chicken to the luscious Alfredo pasta, every element complements the other. Plus, it’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough to serve at a dinner party. You get the perfect combination of zesty, creamy, and savory in one plate.
What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?
Rotini pasta works wonderfully for this recipe because its spirals hold onto the creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce. However, you can swap it for penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine if that’s what you have on hand. The key is to choose a pasta that grips the sauce for maximum flavor.
Ingredients for Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists
To make this dish shine, each ingredient serves a purpose, building layers of flavor and texture:
- Chicken breast – The star of the dish, providing juicy bites that soak up the lemon pepper seasoning.
- Lemon pepper seasoning – Adds bright citrus and zesty pepper notes to the chicken.
- Olive oil & butter – Helps sear the chicken and adds richness to the sauce.
- Garlic cloves – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
- Heavy cream – The base of the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce, giving a nutty and salty creaminess.
- Roasted red peppers – Adds smokiness and a subtle sweetness to the Alfredo sauce.
- Cajun seasoning – Brings the mild heat and Southern flair to balance the cream.
- Rotini pasta – Twists perfectly to hold the Alfredo sauce.
- Fresh parsley – Brightens the dish with a fresh finish.
How To Make the Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists
Follow these steps to create a restaurant-worthy dish right in your kitchen:
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, pat them dry, and coat with lemon pepper seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet, then sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 2: Prepare the Pasta
Cook rotini pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while keeping it warm.
Step 3: Make the Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic, then blend roasted red peppers and heavy cream to create a smooth base. Pour into the pan, add Cajun seasoning, and simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese until creamy and well combined.
Step 4: Combine and Garnish
Toss the cooked rotini in the Cajun Alfredo sauce. Serve the pasta alongside the lemon pepper chicken bites. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Serving and Storing Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists
This dish serves 4 people generously, making it perfect for a family dinner or small gathering. Serve the chicken bites next to the creamy rotini pasta for a visually appealing and flavor-packed plate.
For storage, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid microwaving the chicken for too long to keep it tender.
What to Serve With Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Pasta
Looking to round out your meal? Here are some delicious pairings:
1. Garlic Bread
The classic companion to creamy pasta, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
2. Simple Green Salad
A crisp salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the Alfredo.
3. Steamed Broccoli
Lightly seasoned broccoli adds a nutritious and colorful side.
4. Roasted Asparagus
Tender asparagus with a hint of lemon pairs well with the zesty chicken.
5. Caprese Salad
Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil bring a refreshing bite.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Sweet, smoky corn enhances the Cajun flavors of the sauce.
7. Sautéed Spinach
Lightly garlicky spinach adds a nutrient-rich, earthy complement.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and will add extra flavor. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked.
2. Can I make the sauce less spicy?
Yes, reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. You can also balance heat with extra cream or Parmesan cheese.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day ahead, but cook the pasta fresh for the best texture. Reheat gently on the stove.
4. Can I use jarred roasted red peppers?
Definitely! Jarred roasted red peppers work perfectly for this recipe and save prep time.
5. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half can work for a lighter sauce, but the texture won’t be as rich and creamy as with heavy cream.
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Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot for Pasta
- Blender or Food Processor
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, blended
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- to taste salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry, season with lemon pepper, and sear in olive oil and butter until cooked. Set aside.
- Boil rotini pasta in salted water per package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté garlic, add blended roasted red peppers and heavy cream, stir in Cajun seasoning, simmer, and add Parmesan until creamy.
- Toss pasta in sauce and serve with chicken bites. Garnish with parsley.