Zesty Cajun Garlic Chicken (Printable)

Tender chicken and tortellini combine in a creamy, spicy Cajun garlic Parmesan sauce for a quick meal.

# What you'll need:

→ Proteins

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

→ Pasta

02 - 18 oz 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 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Spices & Seasonings

09 - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
10 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

→ Oils & Garnish

13 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
14 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

# Method:

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 with half the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, then 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 onion and bell pepper for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Sprinkle in remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, stir to combine. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
05 - Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
06 - Return chicken and cooked tortellini to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
07 - Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until completely heated.
08 - Plate and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy one-pan meal bursting with bold Cajun flavors
  • Creamy, cheesy sauce pairs perfectly with protein and pasta for ultimate comfort
02 -
  • Tortellini cooks quickly and can become mushy if overcooked & always follow the package timing
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference for a milder or bolder kick
03 -
  • For extra heat, add cayenne or red pepper flakes with the Cajun seasoning step
  • Try swapping shrimp for chicken, or add mushrooms for a different twist
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