Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream

Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream 1

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Creamy, bold, and just the right amount of heat, this Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream is the comfort food dream you didn’t know you needed. Imagine tender cheese-filled tortellini drenched in a rich sauce made with three luscious cheeses, infused with garlic, and kissed by Cajun spices. It wraps everything you love about Southern comfort into one warm bowl of creamy indulgence.

This dish walks the line between hearty and luxurious. It feels like something you’d order at a cozy bistro on a chilly night, but it comes together easily in your kitchen. Cajun seasoning brings a smoky kick that perfectly contrasts the mellow, velvety cheese sauce, while the chicken adds a satisfying protein bite. It’s the kind of meal that invites seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream

This dish checks every box: fast, flavorful, and completely satisfying. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a weeknight hero. The creamy texture is balanced with bold Cajun spice, giving it a richness that doesn’t overwhelm. And thanks to the tortellini, you get an added burst of cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s family-friendly, yet impressive enough to serve for guests.

The combination of chicken, garlic, and cheese is timeless, but the Cajun flair takes it to a whole new level. Whether you’re trying to spice up your pasta night or need something crave-worthy and quick, this tortellini will become a go-to.

What Kind of Tortellini Works Best for This Dish?

Refrigerated or fresh cheese tortellini work beautifully for this recipe because they cook quickly and hold their shape well. Look for varieties filled with ricotta, parmesan, or a blend of Italian cheeses to match the sauce’s richness. If using frozen tortellini, be sure to boil it until just tender before folding it into the sauce. You want the pasta to soak in all that cheesy Cajun cream without turning mushy.

Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream

This recipe uses everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly comforting and delicious. The base is a garlicky cream sauce infused with Cajun heat and loaded with cheesy tortellini and juicy chicken. Each component has its place in making this dish a standout.

  • Chicken breasts
  • Cheese tortellini
  • Heavy cream
  • Cream cheese
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Cajun seasoning
  • Fresh garlic
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
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Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream 2

How To Make the Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts into bite-size pieces. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Cream Base

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add a touch more oil if needed. Sauté minced fresh garlic until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, then add cream cheese, whisking until smooth and melted.

Step 3: Add the Cheeses

Reduce the heat to low and stir in grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until everything is melted and you have a silky, thickened sauce. Adjust seasoning with more Cajun spice if you like it bolder.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

While the sauce comes together, boil the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet with the sauce.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Serve immediately while it’s hot and gooey with cheese.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

One of the easiest ways to go wrong with this dish is overcooking the tortellini. Since it continues to cook a little when mixed with the hot sauce, aim for just under al dente when boiling it. Also, be cautious with the heat when making the cheese sauce. High heat can make your cheese separate or turn grainy, so keep it low and steady. Another common mistake is not tasting as you go. Cajun seasoning varies in saltiness and heat, so start small and adjust gradually to suit your preference.

How to Serve and Store This Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream

Serve this dish hot right out of the skillet for the ultimate comfort meal experience. It makes enough to feed 4 people generously, and the rich sauce ensures everyone leaves the table satisfied. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream?

Garlic Bread

A crusty slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Simple Side Salad

Something crisp and green like arugula or romaine with a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness.

Roasted Broccoli

A bit of char and bitterness from roasted broccoli pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta.

Steamed Green Beans

Lightly seasoned green beans add freshness and crunch.

Grilled Corn

Sweet, smoky corn is a fun Southern-inspired addition.

Sautéed Spinach

Quickly wilted spinach with a bit of garlic brings color and nutrition.

Sparkling Water with Citrus

A refreshing drink helps cut through the creamy texture.

Chilled Pinot Grigio

If you’re going with wine, a crisp white like Pinot Grigio complements the dish without overpowering it.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re loving this Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini, you might also enjoy exploring some of these comforting, flavor-forward pasta dishes:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it whenever the craving strikes.

And don’t forget to let me know how yours turned out! Did you make it extra spicy? Swap in shrimp for chicken? I’d love to hear how you made this meal your own.

Explore beautifully curated comfort dinners and cheesy favorites on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next crave-worthy meal.

Conclusion

Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream blends creamy indulgence with a bold Cajun kick, making it a dinner that’s both satisfying and exciting. It’s quick to make but full of depth, thanks to the mix of garlic, spices, and rich cheeses. Whether it’s a quiet weeknight or a gathering with friends, this dish fits the moment perfectly.

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Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream 1

Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream


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  • Author: Nina Klatten
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

This Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream recipe is a bold, creamy, and satisfying pasta dinner that brings together tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a smoky Cajun-spiced three-cheese sauce. Perfect for weeknight comfort or entertaining, this one-pan dish is loaded with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes.


Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts

10 oz cheese tortellini

1 cup heavy cream

4 oz cream cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

3 cloves fresh garlic, minced

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

1. Slice chicken breasts into bite-size pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and add cream cheese. Whisk until smooth.

4. Lower heat. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella. Mix until sauce is smooth and thickened.

5. Boil tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and add to the sauce.

6. Return chicken to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat in the creamy cheese sauce. Serve hot.

Notes

Use refrigerated or fresh tortellini for best texture.

Keep sauce on low heat to prevent curdling or separating.

Add more Cajun seasoning if you prefer a spicier dish.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 740mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg

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