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.
The first time I made this Cajun chicken tortellini, my family was amazed at how fast it came together and loved the bold flavors. It quickly became one of our staple weeknight dinners whenever we craved something comforting with a bit of a kick.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: 2 large boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Cheese tortellini: 500 g (18 oz) refrigerated
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Red bell pepper: 1 small, diced
- Yellow onion: 1 small, diced
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated
- 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 cheese:
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Combine everything:
- Return chicken to the skillet, along with cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Heat through:
- Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve:
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Save This dish is always a hit at our family dinners, and even picky eaters come back for seconds. Everyone loves how the sauce clings to the pasta and chicken, making it the ultimate comfort food on chilly nights.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, chefs knife, cutting board, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (tortellini), milk (cream, Parmesan, butter), eggs (tortellini may contain eggs). Double-check tortellini packaging for specifics.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 620 calories, 29 g total fat, 53 g carbohydrates, 38 g protein
Save Give this recipe a try for a fun weeknight meal that's bursting with flavor. Your family will be asking for it again and again!
Recipe FAQ
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Cheese-filled tortellini complements the creamy sauce well, adding a rich texture and flavor that balances the spices.
- → Can I substitute the chicken for seafood?
Yes, shrimp can be used instead of chicken for a seafood variation that pairs nicely with the creamy Cajun sauce.
- → How can I add extra heat to the dish?
Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes increases the spice level without overpowering the other flavors.
- → What sides complement this creamy, spicy dish?
Crusty bread is excellent for soaking up the sauce, and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the bold flavors.
- → Is this dish suitable for a quick meal?
Yes, total prep and cooking time is about 40 minutes, making it ideal for a flavorful weeknight dinner.