Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream

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If you love rich comfort food that comes together quickly, this Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini is exactly what your dinner table needs. It has everything that makes a creamy pasta unforgettable: juicy seasoned chicken, pillowy tortellini, and a luscious three-cheese sauce. Add a bold Cajun kick to the mix, and it’s a recipe that’s bound to earn a permanent spot in your rotation.

The creaminess of the sauce wraps around every bite of garlic-kissed chicken and cheese-filled pasta. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for those nights when you want something a little indulgent without going full-on restaurant mode. With one pan and under 30 minutes, you’ll bring southern flavor home in the best way possible.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini

This dish is the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and cheesy. It hits all the right notes with minimal effort. The Cajun seasoning brings smoky heat that plays beautifully with the richness of the cream and the cheeses, while garlic adds a depth that pulls everything together. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that doesn’t require a dozen ingredients or hours in the kitchen.

It also reheats well, making it a solid option for lunch the next day. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating guests, this recipe will impress without stress.

What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

You can find cheese tortellini in either the refrigerated section or the frozen foods aisle. Fresh tortellini will cook faster and have a more delicate bite, which works great for quick meals. If you opt for frozen, no problem—just boil it for a few extra minutes.

Look for three-cheese tortellini that contains a blend of ricotta, Parmesan, and Romano. These types melt beautifully into the sauce and create a cohesive bite with every forkful. Avoid overstuffed or meat-filled versions for this recipe since the flavor balance is already bold with the seasoned chicken and cheese sauce.

Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini

For this Cajun-inspired pasta dish, each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor and creamy comfort. The ingredients are simple, but when combined, they bring bold Southern flair and richness in every bite.

• Chicken breast
• Cheese tortellini
• Garlic cloves
• Cajun seasoning
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Cream cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley

How To Make the Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized chunks and season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Set aside while you bring a pot of salted water to a boil for the tortellini.

Step 2: Cook the Tortellini

Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain and reserve about half a cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear until golden brown on all sides and fully cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add more butter if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken and tortellini to the skillet and toss everything to coat in the creamy cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and an extra pinch of Cajun seasoning if you like more heat. Serve hot and creamy straight from the pan.

How to Serve and Store Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini

This creamy Cajun chicken tortellini is best served hot off the skillet, where the cheese sauce is at its silky peak and the Cajun flavors are bold and inviting. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the richness of the dish. This recipe comfortably feeds four hungry people, making it perfect for weeknight family meals or casual entertaining.

For storing, allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and warm over low heat to avoid separating the cheese.

What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini?

Garlic Bread

A crisp, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the extra three-cheese sauce left on the plate.

Green Beans Almondine

The light crunch and fresh flavor of sautéed green beans with almonds give a great contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Caesar Salad

A chilled Caesar salad with romaine, Parmesan, and creamy dressing provides a cool, tangy bite next to the warm pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

A tray of oven-roasted broccoli with a squeeze of lemon adds freshness and balances the meal.

Cornbread Muffins

Slightly sweet and hearty, cornbread muffins are a southern-style side that works beautifully with the Cajun theme.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions tossed in vinaigrette adds brightness and crunch.

Sauteed Spinach

Quickly wilted spinach with garlic rounds out the meal with nutrients and a mild flavor that complements the bold pasta.

Iced Sweet Tea

A tall glass of homemade sweet tea adds a Southern finishing touch and is the perfect way to cool the Cajun heat.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Bold Twist?

If you enjoyed this Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream, here are more bold and cheesy dishes to explore:

• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a Philly-inspired pasta night.
• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe when you crave that ultra comforting meat-and-cheese combo.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for an easy, one-pot weeknight hit.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta if you’re a fan of white sauce and big flavor.
• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce for a cozy baked dish the whole family will love.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or toss in some spinach? Maybe a few red pepper flakes for extra heat?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better and bolder.

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