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Irresistible Cajun chicken tortellini recipe features creamy sauce, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta.

Cajun Chicken Tortellini

This Cajun Chicken Tortellini recipe features tender chicken and cheese tortellini in a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce. It's a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal or entertaining.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 20 oz cheese tortellini fresh or refrigerated
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth
  • 2-3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper any color
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped green onions for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • mixing bowl
  • Garlic press (optional)
  • Grater
  • spatula or wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces).
  2. Place the cubed chicken in a bowl and generously season with 2-3 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure every piece is coated evenly.
  3. Let the chicken sit for at least 10 minutes while you prep the veggies.
  4. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
  5. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the bell pepper is slightly softened.
  6. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  7. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet with the veggies. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally.
  8. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  9. Let the broth simmer for a minute or two to reduce slightly.
  10. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly.
  11. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
  12. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  13. Add the tortellini to the skillet with the sauce and chicken.
  14. Gently stir to coat the tortellini in the sauce.
  15. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until the tortellini is heated through and tender. Do not overcook.
  16. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the dish sit for a minute or two to allow the sauce to thicken up a bit more.
  17. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions, if desired.
  18. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a richer flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. To adjust the spice level, start with less Cajun seasoning and add more to taste. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed. You can also add other vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.