Description

If you’re craving something bold, creamy, and downright satisfying, Lemon Pepper Chicken Bites & Roasted Red Pepper Cajun Alfredo Twists is the perfect pick. This easy dinner idea brings together quick-seared chicken bites with lemon zest and punchy pepper, nestled on a bed of rotini drenched in a smoky, spicy roasted red pepper Alfredo. Whether you’re after a flavorful weeknight meal or looking to impress with minimal effort, this quick recipe delivers every time. A fantastic option for both dinner ideas and food ideas that combine spice, creaminess, and comfort on one plate.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized chunks

1 ½ tsp lemon pepper seasoning

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp paprika

Salt, to taste

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp unsalted butter

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

2 roasted red bell peppers

2 tbsp unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp Cajun seasoning

½ tsp smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tbsp cream cheese (optional)

8 oz rotini pasta

Salted water, for boiling

Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Toss the diced chicken with lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.

3. Heat olive oil and butter in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

4. Blend roasted red peppers in a food processor until smooth.

5. In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Stir in the blended red pepper, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

6. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

7. Add cooked pasta into the sauce and stir until well coated. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

8. Plate the pasta and top with chicken bites. Garnish with parsley and basil. Serve hot.

Notes

Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain juices and stay tender.

Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, melt-in sauce texture.

Don’t skip the pasta water — it’s key for adjusting sauce consistency.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 580
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 125mg

Keywords: easy dinner, chicken pasta, lemon pepper chicken, Alfredo pasta, quick recipe, comfort food, Cajun Alfredo