Zesty Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini (Print Version)

Tender chicken paired with cheesy tortellini and a creamy, spicy Cajun garlic Parmesan sauce.

# 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

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Season chicken with half the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté diced onion and bell pepper until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Sprinkle in remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir to combine, then pour in heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer while stirring frequently.
05 - Add Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until fully melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
06 - Return the chicken to the skillet along with the cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat evenly in the sauce.
07 - Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
08 - Plate the dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and optional extra Parmesan cheese.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Packed with bold and zesty Cajun flavors
  • Quick and easy to prepare for busy evenings
02 -
  • This recipe contains wheat, milk, and eggs—check tortellini packaging for specific allergens.
  • Substitute shrimp for chicken if you want a seafood variation.
03 -
  • For extra heat, add cayenne or red pepper flakes with the Cajun seasoning.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for superior flavor and creaminess in the sauce.
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