Dinner

Zesty Cajun Garlic Chicken with Cheese Tortellini Recipe

ByEthan Lark January 10, 2026January 10, 2026

Introduction

This Zesty Cajun Garlic Chicken with cheese tortellini is a flavorful and creamy meal that’s quick to prepare. Packed with bold spices and tender chicken, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner that feels special.

A white round plate holds a colorful dish with three main layers. The base layer is light yellow tortellini pasta shaped like small rings, arranged around the edge of the plate. On top of the pasta, there is a mix of diced vegetables with red, orange, and yellow pieces, adding brightness. The top layer has evenly cut chunks of light brown cooked chicken, seasoned with black pepper and green herbs. A light sprinkle of grated white cheese and finely chopped fresh green herbs is scattered over everything, adding texture and color contrast. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
18 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small red bell pepper, diced
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with half the Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sauté the chicken until browned and fully cooked, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté the diced onion and red bell pepper for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
Step 5: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it fully melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the drained tortellini, and gently toss everything to coat evenly with the sauce.
Step 7: Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to heat the mixture through.
Step 8: Serve the dish plated and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the Cajun seasoning.
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.
Add spinach or kale with the vegetables for a boost of greens.
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it may be less creamy.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, to avoid separating the sauce.

How to Serve

A white bowl with a creamy pasta dish featuring yellow tortellini pasta arranged mostly around the outer edge. In the center, there are pieces of cooked chicken, light brown with black pepper specks, mixed with diced red, orange, and yellow bell peppers and small bits of cooked onions. The dish is topped with grated cheese and sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs, all placed on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, frozen tortellini can be used. Just cook it according to the package instructions and drain well before adding to the sauce.

What can I substitute for Cajun seasoning if I don’t have any?

You can make a simple substitute by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper in similar proportions to match the flavor profile.

Ethan Lark