Lorenzo Devereaux
Golden, crispy bites of Parmesan-crusted chicken perched atop a bed of smoky Cajun Alfredo Gemelli—this dish is a comfort food masterpiece. The chicken offers a satisfying crunch with every bite, revealing tender, juicy meat inside, while the creamy Alfredo sauce swirls through the pasta with just enough Cajun spice to keep things interesting. It’s indulgence with a kick, perfect for both weeknight cravings and weekend dinner parties.
The rich, smoky cream sauce clings perfectly to the spiral-shaped Gemelli pasta, delivering a luxurious texture in every forkful. The combination of cheesy crust, savory chicken, and silky sauce is irresistible for pasta lovers and chicken fans alike. It’s a restaurant-worthy plate that you can whip up in your own kitchen without the wait.
What Kind of Parmesan Should I Use?
For the crispiest, most flavorful crust, opt for freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded. Freshly grated Parmesan melts more evenly, browns beautifully, and brings out a richer, nuttier flavor. Aged Parmesan will offer a sharper bite, while a younger cheese will be milder but creamier—either can work depending on your preference.
Ingredients for the Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli
- Chicken breast – Lean and tender, it provides the perfect base for the crispy Parmesan coating.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty crunch to the chicken crust.
- Panko breadcrumbs – Light and airy crumbs ensure a golden, crispy finish.
- Eggs – Help bind the crust to the chicken.
- Gemelli pasta – Twists and turns hold onto every drop of sauce.
- Heavy cream – Forms the luscious base of the Alfredo sauce.
- Butter – Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic – Brings aromatic warmth and savory flavor.
- Cajun seasoning – Delivers a smoky, spicy note.
- Smoked paprika – Enhances the smoky depth in the Alfredo.
- Parsley – Fresh, bright garnish to balance the richness.
How To Make the Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Slice chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Coat with Parmesan Crust
In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another, mix panko breadcrumbs and freshly grated Parmesan. Dip each chicken bite into the egg, then roll it in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix until fully coated.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Bites
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated chicken bites until golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 3–4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Boil the Gemelli
While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook Gemelli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Make the Smoked Cajun Alfredo Sauce
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and whisk in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Toss the cooked Gemelli in the Alfredo sauce until well coated. Plate the pasta and top generously with the crispy chicken bites. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Serving and Storing Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli
This dish shines brightest when served hot, right after cooking. The chicken stays wonderfully crispy, and the pasta remains creamy and luscious. Serve it family-style in a large bowl or plate individually for a more elegant presentation.
For storing, place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. The chicken bites can be reheated in an air fryer or oven to help restore their crispiness.
What to Serve With Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli?
1. Garlic Bread
The buttery, garlicky crunch is perfect for mopping up every last drop of Alfredo sauce.
2. Roasted Parmesan Green Beans
A light veggie side that keeps with the Parmesan theme.
3. Classic Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons balance out the creamy pasta.
4. Roasted Asparagus
Adds freshness and a slight earthy note to complement the richness.
5. Bruschetta Chicken
A bright, tomato-forward option that works as a starter or side.
6. Lemon Garlic Broccoli
A zesty, healthy green side that pairs well with smoky Cajun flavors.
7. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Warm, comforting, and a delicious way to start the meal.
8. Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Crunchy, cheesy, and light enough to not overpower the main dish.
Want More Pasta & Chicken Dinner Ideas?
If you love these Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:
• Longhorn Parmesan Chicken – A Crispy, Cheesy Delight for a restaurant-inspired plate at home.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for a rich, buttery pasta pairing.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts when you’re in the mood for comfort food simplicity.
• Ultimate Cajun Mozzarella Chicken Ranch Pasta if you want Cajun spice with extra cheesy goodness.
• Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta for a deep, smoky twist on creamy pasta.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra spice? Did you try a different pasta shape?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.
Explore beautifully curated dinner and pasta recipes on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite comfort food creation!
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites & Smoked Cajun Alfredo Gemelli
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Large pot
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 12 oz Gemelli pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- salt and pepper to taste
- oil for frying
Instructions
- Slice chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Pat dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Beat eggs in one bowl. In another, mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan. Dip chicken into egg, then breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Fry chicken bites until golden and cooked through, 3–4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Cook Gemelli pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic, sauté 30 seconds. Stir in cream, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Simmer 3–4 minutes.
- Toss pasta in sauce. Plate and top with chicken bites. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.