Save A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy Cajun garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal with a spicy kick.
I first made this dish after craving something comforting yet exciting, and the combination of Cajun spices with creamy Parmesan sauce was a surprise hit at our family table. The leftovers are just as delicious, making it a staple in our dinner rotation.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: 2 large, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini: 500 g (18 oz)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Red bell pepper: 1 small, diced
- Yellow onion: 1 small, diced
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
- Cajun seasoning: 1 tablespoon
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, plus more to taste
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons chopped, for garnish
- Optional: extra grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with half the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make Sauce:
- Sprinkle in remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir, then pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- Add Parmesan:
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Combine:
- Return chicken to the skillet, along with cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Finish & Serve:
- Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until heated through. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Save Sharing this creamy pasta at Sunday dinner brings everyone to the table in anticipation. It's a meal that always gets compliments and warms up even the busiest night together.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, chefs knife, cutting board, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 620, Total Fat: 29 g, Carbohydrates: 53 g, Protein: 38 g
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for an added touch of elegance.
Save This zesty Cajun chicken tortellini is a comfort food favorite that comes together quickly. Spoon any extra sauce over the top and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Cheese tortellini is ideal as it holds the creamy sauce well and complements the chicken's texture perfectly.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, increase heat by adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to enhance the Cajun seasoning's spicy kick.
- → Is there a seafood alternative?
Substituting shrimp for chicken creates a delightful seafood variation with similar cooking steps.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
Simmer the cream gently and stir constantly after adding Parmesan to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
- → What sides complement this dish?
Crusty bread soaks up the sauce wonderfully, and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors.