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 remember whipping this dish up on a busy weeknight when I wanted something both hearty and full of flavor. The combination of creamy Parmesan and the unmistakable Cajun spice made it an instant family favorite.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: 2 large boneless skinless 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.
- Cook 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.
- 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 Chicken and Tortellini:
- Return chicken to the skillet along with cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Finish and Serve:
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Save Sharing this creamy Cajun pasta at the table always sparks smiles and seconds. It is an easy way to bring family together for a delicious comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta shines alongside a simple green salad and crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream for best texture.
Customization Ideas
Swap in broccoli or spinach for added veggies or use your favorite tortellini filling to switch up the flavor profile.
Save This zesty tortellini will become your go-to for quick flavor-packed dinners. Don't forget a sprinkle of extra Parmesan before serving.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and sauté over medium-high heat until browned but not overcooked to maintain juiciness.
- → Can I use a different pasta instead of tortellini?
Yes, cheese-filled tortellini works best for creaminess, but other stuffed pastas or small shapes like orecchiette can be good substitutes.
- → What gives the sauce its creamy texture?
The combination of heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and smooth sauce that coats the ingredients perfectly.
- → How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?
The Cajun seasoning provides a moderate heat balanced by creamy elements; you can adjust spice levels by adding cayenne or reducing seasoning.
- → Can I prepare components ahead of time?
You can cook the tortellini and sauté vegetables in advance, then combine with freshly cooked chicken and sauce for quick assembly.