Cajun Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

This Cajun Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a creamy, spicy, and ultra-satisfying meal that combines juicy garlic Parmesan chicken bites with cheesy tortellini, all tossed in a rich Cajun-spiced Alfredo sauce. It’s the kind of dish I turn to when I want bold flavors and hearty comfort on one plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this recipe comes together while still feeling restaurant-worthy. The tortellini brings cheesy goodness, the chicken bites add a crispy, savory punch, and the Cajun-spiced Alfredo sauce ties everything together beautifully. It’s a meal that impresses without a lot of fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or when I feel like treating myself.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

  • Fresh or frozen cheese tortellini

  • Cajun seasoning

  • Garlic powder

  • Grated Parmesan cheese

  • All-purpose flour

  • Heavy cream

  • Chicken broth

  • Olive oil

  • Butter

  • Salt

  • Black pepper

  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

  1. I season the diced chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

  2. I coat the chicken in a mixture of flour and Parmesan cheese for a flavorful crust.

  3. In a skillet over medium heat, I cook the chicken in olive oil and butter until golden and cooked through, then set it aside.

  4. I cook the tortellini according to package instructions, drain, and keep warm.

  5. Using the same skillet, I deglaze it with chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits for extra flavor.

  6. I stir in heavy cream and a touch more Cajun seasoning, letting the sauce simmer and thicken.

  7. I add the cooked tortellini to the sauce, stirring to coat every piece.

  8. I return the chicken bites to the pan, tossing gently to combine everything.

  9. I garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

  • Sometimes, I swap in shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.

  • When I want to lighten it up, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

  • I love adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to sneak in some veggies.

  • For extra spice, I sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce.

  • I sometimes mix in shredded mozzarella or provolone for an even richer cheese pull.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwaving works too, but I stir often to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, I often use frozen tortellini — I just make sure to cook it according to the package directions before adding it to the sauce.

How can I make it gluten-free?

I use gluten-free flour for the chicken coating and substitute regular tortellini with a gluten-free pasta option.

Can I double the sauce?

Absolutely, when I want it extra saucy, I just double the cream and broth amounts and adjust the seasoning.

What kind of Cajun seasoning should I use?

I like using a store-bought Cajun blend, but I sometimes make my own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne, and black pepper.

Is there a lighter version of this dish?

When I want a lighter version, I swap heavy cream for evaporated milk or a blend of milk and Greek yogurt.

Conclusion

Cajun Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is one of those meals that feels like pure comfort in every bite. I love the spicy creaminess paired with cheesy pasta and crispy garlic Parmesan chicken. It’s a dish I find myself craving often, and once I made it, it quickly became a household favorite.

Print
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Cajun Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

Cajun Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

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  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Cajun
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Cajun Chicken Tortellini Alfredo recipe is a creamy, spicy, and comforting meal packed with juicy garlic Parmesan chicken bites, cheesy tortellini, and a rich Cajun Alfredo sauce. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this easy dish delivers bold flavors with minimal fuss. Keywords: Cajun Chicken Tortellini Alfredo, Cajun Alfredo sauce, creamy Cajun pasta, spicy tortellini recipe.


Ingredients

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • Fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
  • Cajun seasoning
  • Garlic powder
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • All-purpose flour
  • Heavy cream
  • Chicken broth
  • Olive oil
  • Butter
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season diced chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

  2. Coat chicken pieces in a mixture of flour and grated Parmesan cheese.

  3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook chicken in olive oil and butter until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.

  4. Cook tortellini according to package instructions, then drain and keep warm.

  5. Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits.

  6. Stir in heavy cream and a little more Cajun seasoning; simmer until sauce thickens.

  7. Add cooked tortellini to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.

  8. Return cooked chicken to the pan and gently toss to combine.

  9. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.


Notes

  • Swap shrimp for chicken for a seafood version.
  • Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
  • Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.
  • Increase the spice level with crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Mix in extra cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for a richer, cheesier sauce.

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