Zesty Cajun Garlic Parmesan Chicken (Printable)

A vibrant dish with tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy Cajun garlic Parmesan sauce.

# 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)

# 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. Add chicken pieces, season with half the Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sauté until browned and cooked through, approximately 5 to 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 to 4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Sprinkle remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika over vegetables. Stir well, then pour in heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
05 - Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully melted and sauce achieves a smooth consistency. Adjust seasoning to taste if necessary.
06 - Return cooked chicken and tortellini to the skillet. Toss gently to coat all components evenly with the sauce.
07 - Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.
08 - Plate the dish and garnish with fresh parsley and optional extra grated Parmesan as desired.

# Expert suggestions:

01 -
  • Quick to prepare and bursting with bold flavors
  • Adaptable for different proteins and spice levels
02 -
  • Tortellini may contain wheat and eggs so always check packaging for allergens
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture in the sauce
03 -
  • Add cayenne or red pepper flakes for extra heat
  • Try swapping chicken for shrimp for a fun twist
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