Save Zesty Cajun Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a vibrant and flavorful pasta dish perfect for those who crave a creamy sauce with a spicy kick. Tender chicken pieces are sautéed to golden perfection and combined with cheesy tortellini, all enveloped in a luscious Cajun garlic Parmesan cream sauce. This American/Italian fusion recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner that feels both comforting and exciting.
Save The combination of smoky paprika and Cajun seasoning adds depth without overpowering the creamy garlic sauce. Fresh bell pepper and onion provide sweetness and texture, making each bite deliciously balanced. Garnishing with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan really elevates the presentation and flavor.
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.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- 2.
- 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.
- 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.
- Sprinkle in remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir, then pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- 5.
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- 6.
- Return chicken to the skillet, along with cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- 7.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- 8.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an extra layer of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes when you add the Cajun seasoning. Use fresh parsley as a garnish right before serving to keep its bright color and herbaceous flavor. Letting the sauce simmer gently prevents it from curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy texture. Reserving some pasta water can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Swap the chicken for shrimp to create a delicious seafood twist on this dish. For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Adjust the level of spice by increasing or decreasing the Cajun seasoning to suit your taste. Use gluten-free tortellini if preferred, but double-check the packaging for allergens.
Serviervorschläge
Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the spices and dairy richness. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would balance the richness and add a refreshing contrast. Garnish generously with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for an elegant finish.
Save Zesty Cajun Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini combines the best of bold spices and creamy comfort in a dish that’s both quick and exciting to prepare. Whether for a family dinner or a special meal, it’s sure to satisfy cravings for rich, spicy, and cheesy goodness with every bite.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I substitute shrimp for the chicken?
Yes, shrimp works well with the creamy Cajun garlic Parmesan sauce, offering a fresh seafood variation with similar cooking times.
- → How can I add more heat to this dish?
Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during cooking to elevate the spiciness according to your taste.
- → What pasta pairs best with this sauce?
Cheese tortellini holds the sauce well, but other filled pastas or short shapes like rigatoni or penne also complement the creamy, spicy flavors.
- → Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
The sauce can be made in advance and gently reheated, but adding cooked pasta and chicken just before serving ensures the best texture.
- → What side dishes complement this meal?
Crusty bread is perfect to soak up the sauce, and a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc balances the creamy and spicy notes nicely.