Pin 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 served this dish during a casual get-together with friends, and it was an instant hit. The rich, creamy sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken and cheesy tortellini, making it a comforting yet exciting meal. Everyone always asks for the recipe, and I'm happy to share this simple yet impressive dish.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: cut into bite-sized pieces
- 500 g (18 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini:
- 3 cloves garlic: minced
- 1 small red bell pepper: diced
- 1 small yellow onion: diced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream:
- 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter:
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika:
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: plus more to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: (for garnish)
- Optional: extra grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Bring to a boil:
- 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.
- 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.
- Add seasoning & cream:
- Sprinkle in remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir, then pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- Melt 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.
- Heat through:
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve:
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Pin This dish brings back fond memories of lively dinner parties and cozy family nights. It's a dish that always brings smiles to faces and warmth to hearts, making it a staple in my kitchen. It's truly a dish that tastes like home and good times.
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).
- Double-check tortellini packaging for specific allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 620
- Total Fat: 29 g
- Carbohydrates: 53 g
- Protein: 38 g
Pin This Zesty Cajun Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a delightful fusion of flavors, offering comfort and spice in every bite. Enjoy this vibrant dish that's sure to impress!
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?
Yes, shrimp makes a delicious alternative. Sauté until pink and substitute for chicken in the instructions.
- → Is store-bought tortellini suitable?
Refrigerated tortellini works perfectly for ease and speed. Just follow package directions for cooking.
- → How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to boost the heat to your liking.
- → What are the main allergens?
This dish contains wheat, dairy, and possibly eggs—always check tortellini packaging for specifics.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc is a refreshing complement to the creamy, spicy flavors.
- → Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
The sauce can be made in advance and reheated gently before tossing with chicken and tortellini.