This Cajun Chicken Tortellini is a fun twist on pasta night! It’s packed with spicy Cajun seasoning, juicy chicken, and tasty cheese-filled tortellini, making it a delightful dish.
Who knew dinner could be this quick and delicious? I love how the flavors dance together, and if you sprinkle some extra cheese on top, you’re in for a treat! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: Cheese-filled tortellini is ideal for this dish, but you can easily swap it for other stuffed pasta like ravioli. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using whole wheat or spinach-filled tortellini.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well here, but you can also use thighs for more flavor and juiciness. If you want a lighter meal, go for diced turkey breast instead.
Cajun Seasoning: You can buy ready-made Cajun seasoning, but it’s super easy to make your own! Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne pepper for a customizable blend. Adjust the heat to your liking!
Smoked Sausage: Andouille sausage is classic for Cajun dishes, but kielbasa or even turkey sausage are great alternatives. If you’re vegetarian, use plant-based sausage or omit this ingredient altogether and add more veggies.
Cream: Heavy cream gives a nice richness, but for a lighter sauce, consider half-and-half or even a non-dairy option like coconut cream. Just be aware that coconut will add a different flavor.
How Can I Ensure the Tortellini is Perfectly Cooked?
Perfectly cooked tortellini can really elevate your dish! Here’s how to do it:
- Start by salting your water well—like the ocean! This season the pasta.
- Bring the water to a full boil before adding your tortellini.
- Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually around 3-5 minutes for fresh and 7-10 minutes for frozen.
- Test a piece; it should be al dente, meaning it should have a slight bite to it.
- Don’t forget to reserve a bit of the pasta water before draining! Adding some of this starchy water to your sauce can help it cling better to the tortellini.
By following these tips, your tortellini will be just right, soaking up all those fantastic flavors from the Cajun sauce!
Cajun Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced into rounds
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Paprika, for sprinkling (optional)
Time Needed:
This dish takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking. In just around 35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, creamy Cajun chicken tortellini ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes for fresh ones, or a little longer for frozen. Once done, drain the tortellini and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, season the cubed chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, making sure each piece is coated evenly. This will give your chicken a nice kick!
3. Brown the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook them for about 5-6 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through. Once ready, take the chicken out and set it aside.
4. Cook the Sausage and Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it’s nicely browned. Add in the diced red bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes until it softens a bit.
5. Create the Sauce:
Add the butter to the skillet. Once it melts, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to mix everything together. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Combine Everything:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and makes the sauce nice and creamy. Taste the sauce and add more Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper if you like. Then, bring the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the drained tortellini. Toss everything together so it’s well coated in that delicious, creamy sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the Cajun chicken tortellini into bowls. For a lovely finishing touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley, a dash of paprika if you’re feeling fancy, and some extra Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your warm, flavorful meal!
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some warm garlic bread for a hearty and satisfying dinner!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works perfectly fine in this recipe. Just be sure to increase the cooking time as suggested on the package, usually an extra minute or two compared to fresh tortellini.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half is a great substitute. For a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut cream, but keep in mind it will add a different flavor to the dish.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
