Save Pin 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 first made this Cajun garlic Parmesan chicken tortellini after craving something comforting but loaded with flavor. The fusion of creamy sauce and bold Cajun spice has made it a regular at our dinner table ever since.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: 2 large, boneless, 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.
- Sauté 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 to 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 to 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:
- Return chicken to the skillet, along with cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Finish:
- Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve:
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Save Pin Sharing this dish with my family over laughter and stories always fills our kitchen with warmth. The aroma of the Cajun spices guarantees everyone comes running to the table.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. Add a side salad for freshness.
Allergen Information
This dish contains wheat (tortellini), milk (cream, Parmesan, butter), and eggs (tortellini may contain eggs). Always double-check packaging for specific allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving delivers approximately 620 calories, 29 g total fat, 53 g carbohydrates, and 38 g protein to keep you satisfied.
Save Pin This pasta comes together with ease and brings restaurant-worthy flavor to your home kitchen. Enjoy every spicy, creamy bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta is used in this dish?
Cheese tortellini provides a soft, filled texture that complements the creamy sauce and tender chicken.
- → How can I adjust the heat level?
Adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes increases spiciness, while reducing Cajun seasoning tempers the heat.
- → Can I substitute the protein?
Shrimp can be used instead of chicken for a flavorful seafood variation.
- → What is the best method to achieve a creamy sauce?
Simmering heavy cream with garlic, Cajun spices, and Parmesan cheese while stirring ensures a smooth and rich sauce.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Crusty bread is ideal for soaking up the sauce, and a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors.