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 made this Cajun chicken tortellini on a busy night and everyone loved the bold flavors. The creamy sauce and fresh Parmesan made it extra comforting.
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
- Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted
- 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.
- Cook 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 5-7 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 3-4 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:
- Return chicken to the skillet, along with cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Finish and serve:
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Save This recipe became a weeknight favorite for my family, especially when everyone needs a comforting meal with bold flavor.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, chefs knife, cutting board, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, milk and eggs. Double-check tortellini packaging for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides 620 calories, 29 g total fat, 53 g carbohydrates, and 38 g protein
Save Serve immediately for the best creamy texture and top with fresh parsley to finish.
Recipe FAQs
- → How spicy is Cajun Parmesan tortellini?
The dish has a moderate kick from Cajun seasoning and paprika, but you can add or reduce spices to taste.
- → Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, while cheese tortellini is recommended, you can substitute with ravioli or penne for a different texture.
- → Is this meal suitable for weeknights?
Absolutely. It takes just around 40 minutes and uses simple steps and common kitchen tools.
- → Why add extra Parmesan and parsley on top?
These garnishes boost savory flavor and add fresh color and texture to the finished dish.
- → Can I swap chicken for another protein?
For variation, shrimp works well and offers a seafood twist to complement the creamy sauce.
- → Does the dish contain major allergens?
Yes, it includes dairy, wheat, and possibly eggs from the tortellini. Check packaging for specifics.