Save to Pinterest 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
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
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- 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.
- Step 3:
- 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.
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle in remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir, then pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- Step 5:
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 6:
- Return chicken to the skillet, along with cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Step 7:
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Step 8:
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Save to Pinterest Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, and pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
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
Calories: 620 Total Fat: 29 g Carbohydrates: 53 g Protein: 38 g
Save to Pinterest This dish elevates simple ingredients into a comforting and exciting meal perfect for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Cheese tortellini is ideal as it complements the creamy Cajun garlic sauce with its soft texture and cheesy filling.
- → Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?
Yes, shrimp or turkey can be used for a different twist while maintaining the dish’s bold flavors.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes increases heat, while reducing Cajun seasoning softens the spice.
- → What side dishes pair well with this entree?
Crusty bread is great for soaking up the sauce, and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors nicely.
- → How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Simmer the cream gently over medium heat and stir frequently, avoiding high heat which can cause separation.