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Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream

Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream
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Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream is a quick and flavorful dish where tender Cajun-spiced chicken meets cheese-filled tortellini in a luscious three-cheese cream sauce, delivering a perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and savory in every bite. Ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this one-pan meal offers comfort, bold flavors, and easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless chicken breasts

Pasta

  • 1 package (about 9 oz) cheese-filled tortellini

Seasonings & Spices

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Dairy & Fats

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup three-cheese blend (mozzarella, Parmesan, Romano)

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the boneless chicken breasts evenly with Cajun seasoning on both sides. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add a little more butter if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, taking care not to burn it.
  3. Create the Three-Cheese Cream Sauce: Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add the three-cheese blend while stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Cook the Tortellini: Meanwhile, cook the cheese tortellini in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add the tortellini directly into the cream sauce, tossing to coat thoroughly.
  5. Combine and Finish: Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and gently fold it into the cheesy sauce and tortellini. Heat for an additional minute to warm through. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered varieties.
  • Don’t Overcook Chicken: Cook just until no longer pink to keep meat juicy and tender.
  • Stir Cheese Gradually: Add cheese slowly to avoid clumping and ensure a silky sauce.
  • Season in Layers: Taste as you cook to balance spice and creaminess perfectly.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: Save a splash to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken, cheese tortellini, creamy pasta, three-cheese sauce, quick dinner, spicy pasta, comfort food

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/cajun-garlic-chicken-tortellini-in-three-cheese-cream/