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 first served this...
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts: cut into bite-sized pieces
- 500 g (18 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini:
- 3 cloves garlic: minced
- 1 small red bell pepper: diced
- 1 small yellow onion: diced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream:
- 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter:
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika:
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: plus more to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: (for garnish)
- Optional: extra grated Parmesan for serving
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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 5-7 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.
- Add Seasoning & Cream:
- Sprinkle in remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir, then pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- Melt Parmesan:
- 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.
- Heat Through:
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve:
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Save This recipe always brings back memories of lively family dinners, with everyone asking for seconds.
Required Tools
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Chefs knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
- Contains: Wheat (tortellini), Milk (cream, Parmesan, butter), Eggs (tortellini may contain eggs).
- Double-check tortellini packaging for specific allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 620
- Total Fat: 29 g
- Carbohydrates: 53 g
- Protein: 38 g
Save Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Zesty Cajun Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini, a dish sure to impress with minimal effort. It's truly a celebration of taste in every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → What gives this dish its Cajun flavor?
Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika are used to provide a spicy, aromatic kick typical of Cajun cuisine.
- → Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes, shrimp works well for a seafood twist, and even turkey or sausage can be used for variety.
- → Is homemade tortellini necessary?
Refrigerated cheese tortellini is convenient and provides delicious texture, but homemade can be used if preferred.
- → How can I make the sauce creamier?
Add a bit more heavy cream or extra Parmesan cheese and simmer until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- → How spicy is this dish?
The dish is moderately spicy due to Cajun seasoning, but you can adjust heat by adding cayenne or red pepper flakes to taste.
- → Any serving suggestions for accompaniments?
Serve with crusty bread and a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the creamy and spicy flavors.
