Zesty Cajun Garlic Chicken (Printable)

Tender chicken and cheesy tortellini simmered in a creamy Cajun garlic Parmesan sauce with a spicy kick.

# What You Need:

→ Proteins

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

→ Pasta

02 - 18 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 small red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 small yellow onion, diced

→ Dairy

06 - 1 cup heavy cream
07 - ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Spices & Seasonings

09 - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
10 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
12 - ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

→ Oils & Garnish

13 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
14 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
15 - Optional: extra grated Parmesan for serving

# How to Make It:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with half the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté diced onion and red bell pepper for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Sprinkle remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika over vegetables. Stir briefly, then pour in heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
05 - Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
06 - Return cooked chicken and tortellini to the skillet. Toss gently to coat all components evenly in the sauce.
07 - Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through.
08 - Plate the dish and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Bursting with bold Cajun flavors and creamy Parmesan sauce
  • Easy to make for a quick satisfying dinner
02 -
  • This recipe contains wheat, milk, and eggs, so always double-check the tortellini packaging for specific allergens.
  • For an extra spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes before serving.
03 -
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor and smooth sauce consistency.
  • If using frozen tortellini, cook directly from frozen and check package for timing.
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