Tender chicken and cheesy tortellini in creamy Cajun garlic Parmesan sauce. Easy, bold, and perfect for busy nights.
# Components:
→ 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
15 - extra grated Parmesan cheese, optional, for serving
# Method:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange chicken pieces in a single layer and season with half the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon olive oil and butter. Add diced onion and red bell pepper; sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until vegetables are softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
04 - Sprinkle in remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, stirring to coat the vegetables. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently until the mixture is well blended.
05 - Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until fully melted and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.
06 - Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet along with the cooked tortellini. Gently toss all components in the creamy sauce to ensure thorough coating.
07 - Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through.
08 - Divide onto serving plates and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese as desired.
