This Cajun Chicken Tortellini is a lively dish that combines tender chicken, colorful veggies, and tasty tortellini all smothered in a creamy Cajun sauce. It’s like a party on your plate!
You’ll love how quick this meal comes together. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s packed with flavor. Just watch out—you might want to make extra! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work great too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, grilled shrimp or tofu can be delicious substitutes.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend adds a kick! You can use store-bought Cajun seasoning, or mix your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is classic here, but you can swap in any other stuffed pasta, like ravioli. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free tortellini or use spiralized veggies instead!
Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter dish, you can substitute with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Coconut cream is another alternative for a unique flavor twist.
How Do I Ensure My Sauce is Creamy and Delicious?
Creating that creamy sauce requires a few simple techniques. First, always add the cheese after the fluid is simmering; this helps it melt properly without clumping. Here’s the step-by-step:
- After vegetables are sautéed and the liquid is simmering, slowly whisk in the Parmesan cheese. This keeps your sauce smooth.
- Don’t cringe at the salt! Taste and add just a pinch to balance the dish. The cheese also adds saltiness, so adjust as needed.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more of the chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Enjoy your cooking process! With these tips, your Cajun Chicken Tortellini will be a hit at the dinner table!
How to Make Cajun Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 package (about 9 oz/250g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun Chicken Tortellini takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook. Altogether, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful dish in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with the Cajun seasoning until they’re well coated. This adds lots of flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat. Add in the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Flip the pieces occasionally until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the sliced red bell pepper and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant, and the peppers are slightly softened. This will create a lovely base for your sauce!
4. Add Spinach:
Now, toss in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for about 1-2 minutes until they are wilted. It adds color and nutrition!
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Meanwhile, bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain and set aside.
6. Make the Sauce:
Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. It should all start coming together beautifully!
7. Add Cheese:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
8. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained tortellini. Gently toss everything to make sure the pasta, chicken, and sauce are well mixed.
9. Final Touches:
Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the dish and give it one last mix. This adds a pop of color and freshness!
10. Serve It Up:
Serve the Cajun Chicken Tortellini hot, topped with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
With its creamy sauce and vibrant spices, this Cajun Chicken Tortellini will surely become a family favorite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely before seasoning and cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method by submerging it in a sealed bag.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this Cajun Chicken Tortellini vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh. Adjust the Cajun seasoning for added flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to revive the sauce.
What Can I Serve with Cajun Chicken Tortellini?
This dish is rich on its own, but if you want sides, consider serving it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for dipping. A side of roasted vegetables also complements the flavors beautifully!
