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Creamy Jalapeño Garlic Chicken Bites with Twisted Cheddar Cajun Pasta 1

Creamy Jalapeño Garlic Chicken Bites with Twisted Cheddar Cajun Pasta


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  • Author: Nina Klatten
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Creamy Jalapeño Garlic Chicken Bites with Twisted Cheddar Cajun Pasta recipe delivers spicy, creamy perfection in every bite. Featuring juicy chicken, jalapeño garlic cream sauce, and cheesy Cajun pasta, it’s a flavor-packed dinner perfect for weeknights or entertaining. Ideal for those who love bold chicken pasta recipes with a kick.


Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast

1 fresh jalapeño, finely chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

8 oz twisted pasta (rotini or cavatappi)

2 tsp Cajun seasoning

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp butter


Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the twisted pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.

2. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp Cajun seasoning.

3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and jalapeño. Sauté until fragrant and jalapeño softens.

5. Lower heat. Pour in the heavy cream and stir. Add cheddar cheese and let melt until sauce is creamy and thick.

6. Return chicken to skillet. Toss in the cooked pasta and stir well to coat everything. Add pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

7. Sprinkle in remaining Cajun seasoning. Serve hot.

Notes

Use fresh jalapeño for the best kick of heat.

Don’t overcook the chicken—bite-sized pieces cook fast.

Add a splash of pasta water to keep the sauce silky.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 710mg
  • Fat: 37g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg