Zesty Cajun Garlic Chicken (Print Version)

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

# 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 (240 ml)
07 - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
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)
15 - Optional: extra grated Parmesan for serving

# Step-by-Step Guide:

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 black pepper. Sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté diced onion and bell pepper for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Sprinkle remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika into the skillet. Stir to combine, then pour in heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer while stirring frequently.
05 - Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce achieves a smooth consistency. Adjust seasoning as desired.
06 - Return cooked chicken and tortellini to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
07 - Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the dish is heated through.
08 - Plate the dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if preferred.

# Top Tips:

01 -
  • Quick weeknight dinner bursting with flavor.
  • Easy fusion meal with cheesy tortellini and creamy Cajun sauce.
02 -
  • Tortellini may contain eggs and wheat, so always check the package for allergens.
  • This dish contains dairy from cream, Parmesan, and butter.
03 -
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for more heat.
  • Substitute shrimp for chicken for a delicious seafood twist.
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