This Cajun Chicken Tortellini dish combines spicy, juicy chicken with tasty cheese-filled pasta. It’s colorful and packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight meal!
I love how quick it comes together! Just sauté the chicken, toss in the tortellini, and let the spices work their magic. Dinner is ready in a flash, and it’s always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly. You can substitute with turkey or tofu for a lighter option!
Cajun seasoning: This blend is essential for flavor. If you don’t have it, you can mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne for a homemade version.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk, but it may not be as thick.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini works well, but feel free to swap it for other pasta types like ravioli or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Green onions: Besides adding a fresh crunch, they also brighten up the dish. Chives can be an excellent substitute if you’re out of green onions.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right is key to this dish! Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Start with a hot skillet to sear the chicken quickly, locking in juices.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. This helps in getting that nice golden crust.
- Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Why Is the Sautéing Process Important?
Sautéing ingredients instead of boiling them intensifies the flavors. In this dish, garlic and meat release their unique tastes:
- Always sauté garlic on medium heat to avoid burning it.
- Add the ham or sausage until they are lightly browned for enhanced flavor.
- Layered flavors create a rich, satisfying dish!
With these tips, your Cajun Chicken Tortellini will be a delightful dish with rich flavors and perfect texture! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Cajun Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup diced ham or smoked sausage
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 package (about 9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun Chicken Tortellini will take you about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the bite-sized chicken pieces evenly with Cajun seasoning. Make sure to coat them well for maximum flavor!
2. Sautéing the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Sauté until they’re browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cooking the Ham or Sausage:
In the same skillet, add the diced ham or smoked sausage. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly browned. This will add another layer of flavor to your dish.
4. Adding Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
5. Making the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine everything. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. The cream will create a delicious, rich sauce!
6. Cooking the Tortellini:
Now, add the cheese tortellini to the skillet. Cook according to the package instructions, which should take about 3-5 minutes. The tortellini will soak in all that flavor!
7. Combining Ingredients:
Once the tortellini is tender, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir everything well to coat the ingredients in the creamy sauce.
8. Final Touches:
Stir in the sliced green onions and, if you like a bit of heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes. Season everything with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat everything through.
9. Serving:
Serve your Cajun Chicken Tortellini hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy touch. Enjoy this creamy and spicy dish!
Dig in and savor the bold flavors of your homemade Cajun Chicken Tortellini—an absolute delight for the taste buds!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid extra moisture.
How Can I Store Leftover Cajun Chicken Tortellini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein, like cubed tofu or tempeh. You can also replace the ham or sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a vegetarian sausage for added flavor.
What Type of Tortellini Should I Use?
Refrigerated cheese tortellini works best for this recipe, but you can also use frozen tortellini. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may vary. Gluten-free or whole wheat options are great alternatives as well!