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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Tender seasoned chicken with cheese tortellini in a rich, spicy Cajun cream sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 680

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 12 ounces cheese tortellini pasta fresh or dried
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning plus extra to taste
  • 1 medium red bell pepper diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped for garnish
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon paprika optional for extra color

Equipment

  • Large cast iron skillet or deep pan
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. Season the chicken breast chunks generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper, making sure each piece is well coated on all sides.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot pan and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through with internal temperature reaching 165°F.
  4. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate, keeping all the flavorful drippings in the pan.
  5. In the same pan with the chicken drippings, add diced red bell pepper and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and peppers begin to soften.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, incorporating all those flavorful bits into the sauce.
  7. Add the tortellini pasta to the pan and bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine with the broth, creating a creamy base for the sauce.
  9. Add the shredded cheddar cheese gradually, stirring constantly until completely melted and incorporated into the sauce.
  10. Return the cooked chicken pieces to the pan, stirring everything together and allowing flavors to meld for 2-3 minutes.
  11. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional Cajun seasoning, salt, or pepper according to your preference.
  12. Remove from heat and garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley before serving immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

For a spicier version, increase Cajun seasoning or add cayenne pepper. Can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce. Store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creamy consistency.