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 first made this on a rainy evening, craving something comforting yet exciting. The Cajun kick and creamy sauce made it an instant favorite in my weeknight rotation.
Ingredients
- Proteins: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Pasta: 500 g (18 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 small red bell pepper, diced 1 small yellow onion, diced
- Dairy: 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Spices & Seasonings: 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- Oils & Garnish: 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish) Optional: extra grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Boil 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 7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Cook Aromatics:
- 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 & Serve:
- Cook for an additional 2 3 minutes until heated through. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Pin it This dish quickly became our family’s favorite for busy weeknights. Even picky eaters love the cheesy pasta and hint of spice!
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). Always double check packaging if sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 620 Total Fat: 29 g Carbohydrates: 53 g Protein: 38 g
Pin it This Cajun chicken tortellini comes together quickly and guarantees a flavorful, comforting meal for any night. Enjoy the spicy kick and creamy sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How should I cook the tortellini?
Boil in salted water according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- → Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Yes, shrimp or turkey can be used as alternatives for a different flavor profile.
- → What gives the dish its spicy flavor?
The Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika provide the characteristic mild heat and smoky notes.
- → Is it possible to make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce a few extra minutes after adding cream and cheese to reduce and thicken slightly.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Crusty bread and a crisp white wine complement the creamy, spicy flavors well.