Creamy Cajun Chicken Tortellini with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
A bold and irresistible pasta dish loaded with flavor! This Cajun Chicken Tortellini combines juicy seasoned chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce for the ultimate comfort food dinner. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions!
Ingredients:
For the Cajun Chicken:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 tbsp olive oil
1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Tortellini & Sauce:
12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Salt & pepper, to taste
½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed for consistency)
Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley or basil
Extra Parmesan
Lemon zest for a touch of freshness
Instructions:
Boil the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Season the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently.
Whisk in cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Return the Cajun chicken to the skillet and mix gently to combine all flavors.
Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and a hint of lemon zest for brightness.
Quick Facts:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: ~820 kcal
Benefits:
High-Protein Meal: Chicken provides lean protein for muscle strength and energy.
Comforting and Satisfying: The creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce makes it a family favorite comfort dish.
Quick Weeknight Dinner: Ready in under 35 minutes!
Customizable Heat: Adjust Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
Rich in Flavor: The combination of Cajun spice, garlic, and cheese creates a restaurant-quality dish at home.
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Indulge in this Creamy Cajun Chicken Tortellini with Garlic Parmesan Sauce a rich, flavorful pasta recipe featuring juicy chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy garlic sauce. Ready in 30 minutes for the perfect weeknight dinner!