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.
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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
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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.
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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.
