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.
The first time I made this Cajun Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini, my family devoured it in minutes. The blend of creamy sauce and zesty Cajun spices makes every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: 2 large, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Cheese tortellini: 500 g (18 oz) refrigerated
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Red bell pepper: 1 small, diced
- Yellow onion: 1 small, diced
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated
- 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
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons chopped, 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.
- Build 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 pasta:
- 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 Gathering around the table to enjoy this creamy, spicy pasta always sparks smiles and laughter. It has quickly become a requested favorite for cozy family dinners.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce and a side salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette for balance.
Ingredient Swaps
Swap chicken for shrimp to make a seafood version or choose spinach tortellini for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Save Finish with extra fresh parsley and Parmesan for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your zesty Cajun pasta adventure!
Recipe Help & Answers
- → What pasta works best with this dish?
Cheese tortellini is ideal as it pairs well with the creamy Cajun garlic Parmesan sauce, adding a cheesy texture that complements the chicken.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes increases heat, while reducing Cajun seasoning makes it milder.
- → Is there a seafood alternative?
Shrimp can replace chicken for a seafood variation that still works well with the creamy sauce.
- → How do I thicken the sauce if needed?
Simmer the sauce gently to reduce liquid or add a small amount of grated Parmesan to help thicken it naturally.
- → What sides complement this dish?
Crusty bread is great for soaking up sauce, and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely with the flavors.