This Cajun Chicken Tortellini dish is a fun twist on dinner! It’s packed with tender chicken and flavorful tortellini that dance together in a spicy, creamy sauce.
You’ll love how quick it is to whip up—perfect for a busy evening! I often sprinkle some extra cheese on top because, let’s be honest, who can resist that melty goodness? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This is the star of the dish! You could also use thigh meat for juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, shrimp or even tofu works well as a substitute for a fun twist.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is my first choice, but any kind of pasta can fit nicely here. If you prefer gluten-free, many brands have gluten-free tortellini that taste fantastic!
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can create your own blend using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Adjust the spices based on your heat tolerance!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk. You could also opt for a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream, to keep it creamy.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken just the right amount can be tricky! Follow these tips to get juicy, flavorful chicken every time:
- Use medium-high heat to brown the chicken quickly, locking in moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This helps in cooking them evenly.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This lets the juices redistribute for better flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Make A Creamy Sauce?
A delicious creamy sauce is key to this dish! Here’s how to achieve that perfect consistency:
- After adding the chicken broth and cream, bring it to a gentle simmer, not a rapid boil. This prevents separation.
- Incorporate the cheese slowly and make sure it fully melts into the sauce for extra creaminess.
- Taste as you go! Season gradually and adjust according to your preference to ensure the flavors are balanced.
Delicious Cajun Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 package (about 9 oz/250g) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced thin
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and cooking the chicken and veggies, and about 15-20 minutes bringing everything together for a creamy, delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until tender. Once done, drain the tortellini and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sprinkle them with the Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced bell peppers. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream while stirring to combine everything. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld together.
5. Combine Chicken and Tortellini:
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the tortellini. Gently stir everything together, making sure all the ingredients are coated in the creamy Cajun sauce.
6. Add Cheese and Season:
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and blends into the sauce. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or any extra Cajun seasoning if you want more heat.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the Cajun Chicken Tortellini to serving plates. Garnish with sliced green onions and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, creamy pasta dish!
This Cajun Chicken Tortellini is not only simple to make but incredibly satisfying and packed with flavor. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Other Proteins Besides Chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp or sausage work wonderfully in this recipe. For a vegetarian option, consider using mushrooms or tempeh instead of chicken, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! If you love heat, add more Cajun seasoning or include a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also top the dish with crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick when serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cajun Chicken Tortellini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid separation.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just reheat and cook the tortellini just before serving to keep everything fresh and creamy!