Pin Zesty Cajun Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini 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 often make this when I want a comforting spicy pasta that comes together quickly and pleases the whole family
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts: cut into bite sized pieces
- 500 g (18 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini: follow package instructions for cooking
- 3 cloves garlic: minced
- 1 small red bell pepper: diced
- 1 small yellow onion: diced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream: for the sauce
- 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese: for melting into the sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: for sautéing and sauce
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: for smoky depth
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: plus more to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: for cooking
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: 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 and 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 cooking:
- Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until heated through
- Serve:
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired
Pin My family loves this served with crusty bread to soak up the sauce and a simple salad on the side
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
Variations
Substitute shrimp for chicken for a seafood twist Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for extra heat
Nutrition
Approximately 620 calories per serving with 38 g protein 29 g fat and 53 g carbohydrates per serving
Pin Enjoy this zesty creamy pasta for a satisfying weeknight dinner It reheats well for leftovers
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I add more heat to this dish?
Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during cooking to enhance the spicy kick.
- → Can I substitute the chicken with seafood?
Yes, replacing chicken with shrimp or another seafood works well and adds a different but delightful flavor profile.
- → What type of pasta suits this dish best?
Cheese tortellini is ideal as it complements the creamy sauce and tender proteins perfectly.
- → How should I adjust seasonings to taste?
Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, Cajun seasoning, or smoked paprika to balance flavors to your liking.
- → What sides pair best with this dish?
Crusty bread soaks up the sauce nicely, and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors well.