Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo & Crispy Brussels Twists

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Golden maple garlic chicken bites meet creamy Cajun Alfredo pasta, all served alongside crispy roasted Brussels sprouts for a flavor-packed plate that checks every box. This comforting, well-balanced dish is the perfect mix of spicy, sweet, creamy, and savory—ideal for dinner nights when you’re craving something indulgent yet easy to make at home.

Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this trio of textures and tastes delivers big-time. The caramelized edges of the chicken pair beautifully with the bold Alfredo sauce, while the Brussels sprouts add a punch of earthy crispness to round out the meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo & Crispy Brussels Twists

This dish is a flavor explosion in every bite. You get the sweet, sticky heat from the maple garlic chicken bites, the rich and spicy kick from the Cajun Alfredo pasta, and that perfect crunch from the roasted Brussels sprouts. Plus, it all comes together faster than you might expect, making it a top pick for weeknight dinners or weekend indulgence. It’s versatile, satisfying, and made from real ingredients you probably already have on hand.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Cajun Alfredo?

Fettuccine is the gold standard when it comes to Alfredo sauces—its wide, flat noodles hold onto the creamy Cajun sauce beautifully. But if you’re out of fettuccine, don’t worry. Linguine, spaghetti, or even penne can stand in and soak up all the spicy, cheesy goodness just fine. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best bite.

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Ingredients for the Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo & Crispy Brussels Twists

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in delivering bold flavor, creamy texture, and satisfying crunch. Let’s break it down:

• Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless): Juicy and flavorful, thighs are ideal for searing and hold up well to the maple garlic glaze.
• Maple Syrup: Adds a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when cooked with the chicken.
• Garlic (minced): Provides aromatic depth and that essential savory punch.
• Soy Sauce: Balances sweetness with a touch of umami.
• Smoked Paprika: Gives the chicken that smoky, spiced edge.
• Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until crispy, they bring earthiness and texture.
• Olive Oil: Used for roasting and cooking; helps ingredients brown and crisp.
• Fettuccine Pasta: The creamy Cajun Alfredo clings perfectly to these wide noodles.
• Heavy Cream: Base of the Alfredo sauce, making it rich and luscious.
• Parmesan Cheese (grated): Salty, cheesy goodness that melts into the sauce.
• Cajun Seasoning: Kicks up the heat and infuses the Alfredo with bold flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and rounds out the sauce.
• Salt & Pepper: Enhances all the flavors.

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How To Make the Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo & Crispy Brussels Twists

Step 1: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in a 400°F oven for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden brown on the edges.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Bites

Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized chunks. Sauté in a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Once browned, add maple syrup, minced garlic, soy sauce, and smoked paprika. Let everything simmer until the glaze thickens and the chicken gets beautifully caramelized.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta

Cook fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 4: Make the Spicy Cajun Alfredo Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in Cajun seasoning. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If needed, thin the sauce with a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Toss and Assemble

Combine the cooked pasta with the Cajun Alfredo sauce until well coated. Plate the pasta with the caramelized maple garlic chicken bites and crispy Brussels sprouts. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a final touch.

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Serving and Storing Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo & Crispy Brussels Twists

This meal is hearty and filling, serving up to 4 people comfortably. It’s the kind of dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but is totally doable on a weeknight.

For storing, separate each component (chicken, pasta, Brussels sprouts) into airtight containers to maintain their textures. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk, and reheat the chicken and sprouts in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

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What to Serve With Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo?

Garlic Bread

Nothing pairs with Alfredo pasta like warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce.

Side Salad

A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the Alfredo.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Their natural sweetness complements the spicy Cajun notes and maple glaze.

Corn on the Cob

Lightly grilled or boiled, corn adds freshness and texture to your plate.

Pickled Veggies

Add a punchy contrast with pickled onions or radishes.

Mashed Cauliflower

A low-carb, creamy option that pairs well with the chicken and sprouts.

Green Beans Almondine

Lightly sautéed green beans with toasted almonds offer crunch and a nutty accent.

Sparkling Water or Iced Tea

For a drink pairing, keep it refreshing to cut through the rich, creamy flavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breast works fine, though it may be slightly less juicy than thighs. Be careful not to overcook it to keep it tender.

How spicy is the Cajun Alfredo sauce?
It has a mild-to-medium kick. If you prefer less heat, reduce the Cajun seasoning or choose a milder blend. Want more fire? Add a dash of cayenne!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prep the chicken, roast the Brussels sprouts, and even make the Alfredo sauce a day in advance. Just reheat and assemble when ready to serve.

Is there a dairy-free version of this?
Yes, use full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese option.

Can I freeze this dish?
The chicken freezes well, but the Alfredo sauce may change texture after thawing. Freeze components separately, and reheat slowly to maintain consistency.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra heat or a twist of lemon? Did you go low-carb with zoodles?

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

Explore beautifully curated flavor-packed meals on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next dinner favorite!

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Conclusion

Maple Garlic Chicken Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo & Crispy Brussels Twists is more than just a weeknight dinner—it’s a full flavor experience. From the sweetness of the glazed chicken to the richness of the Alfredo and the crunch of the Brussels, every bite tells a story. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just treating yourself, this is a dish that guarantees satisfaction.

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