Zesty Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini (Printable)

Tender chicken and tortellini in a creamy Cajun garlic Parmesan sauce with a spicy kick and fresh parsley garnish.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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 (240 ml)
07 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
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 (for garnish)
15 - Optional: extra grated Parmesan for serving

# How to Make It:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with half the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté until browned and cooked through, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
03 - 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.
04 - Sprinkle remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika over vegetables. Stir well, then pour in heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
05 - Add Parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
06 - Return chicken to skillet along with cooked tortellini. Gently toss to fully coat ingredients in sauce.
07 - Cook mixture for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
08 - Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
  • Bursting with zesty Cajun flavors and creamy Parmesan sauce
02 -
  • Contains common allergens: wheat, milk, and egg (check tortellini ingredients).
  • Substitute shrimp for chicken for a seafood variation.
03 -
  • Measure spices and prep all ingredients before cooking for a smooth process.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and a creamier sauce.
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