Description
This bold and savory dish is the ultimate comfort combo—sweet and sticky maple garlic chicken, creamy spicy Cajun Alfredo pasta, and crispy roasted Brussels sprouts. Perfect for weeknight meals, meal prep, or impressing dinner guests. It’s one of those must-try easy recipes that hit every craving with simple steps and big flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea, healthy(ish) comfort food, or easy pasta recipes, this one delivers on all fronts.
Ingredients
400g chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
3 tablespoons maple syrup
3 garlic cloves minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
300g Brussels sprouts halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
250g fettuccine pasta
1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons butter
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
2. Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized chunks and sauté in a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Once browned, add maple syrup, garlic, soy sauce, and smoked paprika. Cook until the glaze thickens and the chicken is caramelized.
4. Cook the fettuccine in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
5. In a saucepan, melt butter and add Cajun seasoning. Pour in heavy cream and simmer. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
6. Combine the cooked pasta with Cajun Alfredo sauce. Add pasta water as needed to loosen.
7. Plate the pasta, chicken bites, and Brussels sprouts. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, melt-in texture.
Roast the Brussels on a single layer to ensure crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop, Oven
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: easy dinner, maple chicken, cajun alfredo, pasta, comfort food, weeknight meal