Pin Recipe 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 tortellini for friends, they were surprised by the spicy Cajun twist paired with comforting Parmesan cream. It instantly became one of our go-to meals whenever we need something both satisfying and exciting.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 2 large, 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 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:
- Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve:
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Pin Recipe This recipe is a favorite in our home and always brings everyone to the table quickly. The kids love the cheesy pasta, and adults appreciate the lively kick from the Cajun seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this tortellini dish with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce, and serve alongside a crisp green salad for extra freshness.
Make It Your Way
Swap chicken for shrimp to create a delicious seafood version. You can also add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies and flavor.
Nutritional Info
Each serving contains 620 calories, 29 g total fat, 53 g carbohydrates, and 38 g protein.
Pin Recipe This Zesty Cajun Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini brings a fusion of flavors to your table with minimal fuss. Enjoy every creamy, spicy bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces cook evenly and absorb spices well.
- → Can I substitute the tortellini?
Yes, cheese tortellini works best for creaminess, but ravioli or small pasta shapes can be used as alternatives.
- → How spicy is the dish?
The Cajun seasoning offers a moderate kick; adjust heat by adding cayenne or red pepper flakes as desired.
- → What sides complement this dish?
Crusty bread and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc enhance the creamy, spicy flavors nicely.
- → How do I ensure the sauce is creamy?
Use heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan, stirring until smooth and heated gently to avoid curdling.