Save Zesty Cajun Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a vibrant and flavorful pasta dish that brings together tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy, spicy Cajun garlic Parmesan sauce. This fusion of American and Italian flavors makes it perfect for a quick weeknight meal with a delightful kick of heat. The combination of fresh bell peppers and aromatic garlic adds color and depth, while the Parmesan cheese enriches the sauce with a rich, savory finish.
Save This dish balances creamy, spicy, and cheesy elements harmoniously, delivering comfort and excitement in every bite. Its simplicity makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels while still impressing with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation. The use of refrigerated cheese tortellini speeds up cooking time, allowing more moments to enjoy at the table with loved ones.
Ingredients
- Proteins
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Pasta
- 500 g (18 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Vegetables & Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- Dairy
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- Oils & Garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: extra grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- 1. Cook tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- 2. Prepare 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.
- 3. 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.
- 4. Make sauce
- Sprinkle in remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir, then pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- 5. Add cheese
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- 6. Combine
- Return chicken to the skillet, along with cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- 7. Heat through
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- 8. Serve
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To maximize flavor and texture, ensure the chicken pieces are evenly cut for uniform cooking. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melt and richness in the sauce. When sautéing, cook the garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. Adjust seasoning at the end to balance creaminess and heat perfectly.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a seafood variation, substitute the chicken with shrimp and reduce the sauté time accordingly. To increase spice, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes as desired. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add extra vegetables or plant-based protein alternatives.
Serviervorschläge
Pair this creamy, spicy tortellini with crusty bread to soak up every delicious bit of sauce. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish’s richness and spice beautifully. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for a colorful finish.
Save With these tips and the straightforward recipe, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for entertaining or a comforting family dinner. Enjoy the harmonious blend of zesty Cajun spices, creamy Parmesan sauce, and tender chicken that makes this tortellini truly memorable.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta is used in this dish?
Cheese tortellini is used to provide a rich, creamy texture that complements the sauce and chicken.
- → How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this meal?
The Cajun seasoning adds a mild to medium heat with smoky and savory flavors, which can be adjusted with extra spices if desired.
- → Can this dish be prepared using a different protein?
Yes, substituting shrimp for chicken creates a delightful seafood variation with the same creamy sauce.
- → What garnishes enhance the flavors here?
Fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan bring brightness and extra cheesy depth to the dish.
- → Is this dish suitable for quick weeknight meals?
Absolutely. With a total cook time of around 40 minutes, it's a flavorful option that comes together quickly.