Save A vibrant and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy Cajun garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal with a spicy kick.
This cozy chicken stew recipe quickly became a favorite in my household because of its bold flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
- Proteins: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Pasta: 500 g (18 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 3 cloves garlic, minced , 1 small red bell pepper, diced , 1 small yellow onion, diced
- Dairy: 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream , 1/2 cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese , 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Spices & Seasonings: 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning , 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika , 1/2 teaspoon black pepper , 1/2 teaspoon salt , plus more to taste
- Oils & Garnish: 2 tablespoons olive oil , 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish) , Optional: extra grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with half the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté onion and bell pepper for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle in remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir, then pour in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- Step 5:
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 6:
- Return chicken to the skillet, along with cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.
- Step 7:
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Step 8:
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Save This recipe often brings my family together, especially when paired with crusty bread and a crisp white wine.
Required Tools
Large pot , Large skillet , Chefs knife , Cutting board , Wooden spoon or spatula , Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (tortellini) , Milk (cream, Parmesan, butter) , Eggs (tortellini may contain eggs). Double-check tortellini packaging for specific allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 620 , Total Fat: 29 g , Carbohydrates: 53 g , Protein: 38 g
Save This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Searing the chicken over medium-high heat until just cooked and not overcooking it helps keep it tender and juicy within the sauce.
- → Can I use dried tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Dried tortellini can be used, but it may require longer boiling time. Follow package instructions to avoid overcooking.
- → What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream cheese can offer a lighter but still creamy texture in the sauce.
- → Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes increases the spice level without altering the creamy profile.
- → Can I swap chicken for seafood?
Shrimp works well as a substitute, cooking quickly and pairing nicely with the creamy, garlicky Cajun sauce.