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.
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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
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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.
- 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.
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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.
