Description
These Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Bites are tender, flavorful pieces of chicken cooked with a creamy sun-dried tomato Cajun Alfredo sauce, paired perfectly with charred broccolini. This quick and easy 30-minute meal combines bold Cajun spices, rich Parmesan, and garlicky goodness for a comforting yet elegant dinner that serves four.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Sauce
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Broccolini
- 1 bunch broccolini
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional minute.
- Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and add a pinch more Cajun seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat the pieces evenly in the creamy sauce. Allow the chicken and sauce to simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Char the Broccolini: Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a separate pan over medium-high heat. Add the broccolini, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is charred and tender, approximately 5 minutes.
- Serve: Plate the garlic-parmesan chicken bites alongside the charred broccolini. Optionally, serve over pasta or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier bites or chicken breasts for leaner meat.
- Sun-dried tomatoes add a rich umami flavor; use oil-packed for best results.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste depending on preferred spice level.
- Serve with your favorite side like pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a heartier dish.
- Broccolini can be substituted with asparagus or broccoli florets if desired.
