Zesty Cajun Garlic Chicken (Printable format)

Tender chicken and tortellini tossed in a creamy, zesty Cajun garlic Parmesan sauce.

# List of ingredients:

→ 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)
15 - Optional: extra grated Parmesan for serving

# How to make it:

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

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Packed with bold Cajun flavors and creamy Parmesan sauce
  • Easy and fast to prepare for busy nights
02 -
  • Tortellini may contain eggs and other allergens, always check the packaging
  • Serve immediately for best texture of pasta and sauce
03 -
  • Substitute shrimp for chicken for a seafood variation
  • Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicier kick
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