Tender chicken and cheesy tortellini in a creamy, zesty Cajun garlic Parmesan sauce, ideal for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
# Components:
→ 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 - ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
→ Spices & Seasonings
09 - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
10 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
12 - ½ 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 cheese for serving
# Method:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package directions. 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 to 7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and butter. Cook onion and red bell pepper until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Sprinkle in remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Stir to combine. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
05 - Add Parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted and sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste if necessary.
06 - Return chicken to the skillet along with cooked tortellini. Gently toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
07 - Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through.
08 - Serve sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
