Description
A flavorful and indulgent dish combining spicy garlic chicken bites with creamy Cajun Alfredo pasta and vibrant charred vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tablespoons chili oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1–2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine the chicken with chili oil, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and then add the rotini pasta. Cook until al dente, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Grill the Chicken: Heat a cast iron grill or pan over medium heat. Grill the marinated chicken for 4–5 minutes per side.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a sauté pan, melt butter with olive oil. Add minced garlic and garlic and sauté briefly before adding heavy cream and Cajun seasoning.
- Add Cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce.
- Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, loosening it with reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Vegetables: Sauté zucchini and bell peppers in high heat with olive oil and optional chili flakes until charred.
- Plate Up: Assemble the dish with pasta, grilled chicken, and vegetables. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Notes
For healthier alternatives, consider using low-fat cream or plant-based cheese and protein options.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 700
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 200mg