Zesty Cajun Garlic Parmesan Tortellini (Printable Version)

Spicy Cajun chicken, cheesy tortellini, and creamy Parmesan sauce make this easy fusion pasta dish truly irresistible.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Proteins

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

→ Pasta

02 - 18 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 small red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 small yellow onion, diced

→ Dairy

06 - 1 cup heavy cream
07 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Spices & Seasonings

09 - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
10 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

→ Oils & Garnish

13 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
14 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
15 - Optional: extra grated Parmesan for serving

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook refrigerated cheese tortellini according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with half of the Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sauté until browned and cooked through, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and unsalted butter. Add diced onion and red bell pepper, and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until vegetables are soft. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
04 - Sprinkle in the remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, stir well. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
05 - Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
06 - Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Add cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat evenly with the creamy sauce.
07 - Continue to cook for 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through.
08 - Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan, if desired.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Spicy, creamy sauce loaded with flavor
  • Easy weeknight meal that comes together quickly
02 -
  • Tortellini may contain eggs and wheat so check the packaging for allergens
  • This dish delivers about 620 calories per serving
03 -
  • Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for more heat
  • Swap chicken for shrimp to make a seafood version
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