This Cajun Chicken Tortellini is a fun and zesty dish! It features tender chicken, spicy Cajun seasoning, and soft tortellini, all mixed together to create a delicious meal.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Pair it with a salad, and you’ve got a tasty dinner ready in no time—perfect for busy weeknights. Can’t wait to dig in! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works best for this recipe as it cooks quickly. You can substitute with shrimp or cooked sausage for different flavors. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try adding mushrooms or a mix of your favorite veggies instead.
Cajun Seasoning: Use pre-packed Cajun seasoning for convenience. If you don’t have it, mix up some paprika, thyme, oregano, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne for a homemade version. Adjust the heat level to your preference!
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini adds a lovely flavor. You can swap it for any other pasta, like penne or rotini, or even use gluten-free tortellini if needed. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative. Coconut milk works well for a unique flavor, but it will change the overall taste slightly.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right is key to this dish. You want it tender and flavorful, without being dry. Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; if necessary, cook in batches to keep the chicken pieces from steaming.
- Turn the chicken only once or twice while cooking for even browning, about 5-7 minutes total.
- Always check for doneness. Chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
With these tips, your Cajun Chicken Tortellini will be juicy and delicious every time!
Cajun Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 package (about 9 oz / 250g) cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (green or mixed colors)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Optional: pinch of smoked paprika for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cajun Chicken Tortellini takes about 25 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes for prep and cooking up the chicken, tortellini, and the creamy sauce, plus an additional 5-10 minutes to let the flavors really come together. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente, usually around 3-5 minutes. Drain the tortellini and set them aside on a plate.
2. Season the Chicken:
While the tortellini is cooking, take your bite-sized chicken pieces and sprinkle them evenly with Cajun seasoning. This will give the chicken that zesty kick!
3. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the sliced bell peppers and cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they are slightly softened.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Combine and Finish:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until it melts and becomes smooth. Then, add the cooked chicken and tortellini back to the skillet, gently tossing everything together to coat well in the creamy Cajun sauce.
7. Taste and Garnish:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning if desired. Serve it hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley or cilantro, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika if you like.
Enjoy your creamy, spicy Cajun Chicken Tortellini with a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a perfect hearty meal!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time according to the package instructions. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a plant-based cream like coconut cream. Keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly with these substitutes!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you like heat, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning, or even some red pepper flakes. Adjust the spices to your taste, but start with small increments to avoid overpowering the dish!