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. Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Category: Main Dish Difficulty: Easy Cuisine: American/Italian Fusion Yield: 4 servings Diet: Contains Dairy
When I first made this recipe for my family, the spicy Cajun sauce was a hit even with the picky eaters. They especially loved the creamy Parmesan coating every bite of tortellini and chicken!
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 2 large, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini: 500 g (18 oz)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Red bell pepper: 1 small, diced
- Yellow onion: 1 small, diced
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
- 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
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons, 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.
- Prepare 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 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 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 Parmesan:
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Combine Chicken and Tortellini:
- Return chicken to the skillet, along with cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Finish:
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.
- Serve:
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Save My kids always ask for seconds when I serve this saucy tortellini. It is now a regular favorite for quick family dinners and special occasions alike.
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. Always check tortellini packaging for ingredient updates.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 620, Total Fat 29 g, Carbohydrates 53 g, Protein 38 g
Save This dish is extra comforting and comes together quickly on busy nights. Try adding fresh basil for a bright finish.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute shrimp for chicken?
Absolutely. Swap chicken with shrimp for a seafood option. Cook shrimp briefly until just pink and tender.
- → What type of tortellini works best?
Use cheese tortellini for a creamy finish, or try spinach or mushroom-filled for added depth.
- → How spicy is the dish?
The Cajun seasoning offers moderate spice. Adjust heat by adding cayenne or red pepper flakes to taste.
- → Can I make the sauce ahead?
The creamy sauce is best prepared fresh, but you can chop ingredients ahead to save time.
- → What can I serve alongside?
Pair with crusty bread to soak up sauce and complement with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians?
Omit chicken and use extra vegetables or use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly version.