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Creamy Cajun Chicken Tortellini

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Tortellini is a one-pan dish that combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce. It’s a quick and easy dinner that’s full of flavor, perfect for busy weeknights!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt, to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add diced chicken and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  2. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add liquids: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 2 minutes.
  4. Melt the cheese: Stir in Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Let the sauce thicken for 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Cook the tortellini: Add the uncooked tortellini directly to the sauce. Cover and let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
  6. Combine everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the creamy sauce. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, cover, and let melt for 2 minutes.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

Notes

  • Spice level: Adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to your heat preference.
  • Protein swap: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
  • Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce cheese.
  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free tortellini or substitute with another pasta.