Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream is a delicious plate full of bold flavors and creamy goodness. The spicy kick from the Cajun seasoning blends perfectly with tender chicken pieces and soft tortellini pasta, all wrapped in a rich sauce made from three kinds of cheese. Garlic adds a wonderful aroma that fills the kitchen and makes this dish feel extra special.
I love making this dish when I want something that’s both comforting and exciting. The creamy cheese sauce is smooth and cheesy without being too heavy, and the Cajun spices give it just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting. One tip I have is to cook the chicken a little bit crisp on the outside before mixing it with the cream sauce—it adds a nice texture that I can’t get enough of.
This meal is perfect for a cozy night in or when you want to impress friends with minimal effort. I like serving it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out all the richness. Every time I make it, the house smells amazing and everyone ends up asking for seconds. It’s become one of those go-to dishes that always feels like a treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cajun Seasoning: This gives the dish its spicy, bold flavor. If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper. Adjust the heat to your taste.
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless breasts for tender chunks. Thighs work well too if you want juicier, richer meat.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini adds creamy pockets of flavor. You can substitute with ravioli or other stuffed pasta. Fresh or refrigerated tortellini works best for quick cooking.
Three-Cheese Cream Sauce: The combo of Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar makes a rich, smooth sauce. If you want it lighter, use less cheese or swap cheddar for a milder cheese like Monterey Jack.
Heavy Cream: This creates a smooth, creamy sauce. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or coconut milk, though the texture will be less thick.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Spiced and Juicy?
Cooking chicken right is key! Here’s how to nail it:
- Pat the chicken dry so it browns nicely.
- Coat the cubes evenly with Cajun seasoning—it’s the flavor base.
- Heat the skillet and olive oil until hot before adding chicken; this seals in juices.
- Cook on medium-high, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed for even browning.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the tortellini; plenty of water helps prevent sticking.
- Large skillet or frying pan – perfect for cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – to stir the sauce gently without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate amounts of cream, cheese, and seasoning.
- Colander – to drain the cooked tortellini quickly and easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist that cooks quickly and pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Add sautéed spinach or kale for a boost of green and texture without overpowering flavors.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, slightly sweet note that complements the cheese sauce.
- Try smoked paprika or chipotle powder instead of Cajun seasoning to change the spice profile.
How to Make Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Cream Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes total — 10 minutes for preparation and cooking the chicken, 5 minutes for boiling the tortellini, and about 10 minutes to prepare the creamy sauce and combine all ingredients. A quick, tasty meal you can have ready in under half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook them according to the package instructions—usually 3 to 5 minutes until they are tender but still firm. When done, drain the tortellini and set them aside.
2. Cook the Cajun Chicken:
While the tortellini cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken cubes with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, turning occasionally, until the pieces are nicely browned and cooked through—about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently and let the cream reduce slightly for about 3 minutes.
4. Add the Three Cheeses and Season:
Slowly add the Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar cheeses to the cream, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add chopped parsley and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Combine Everything and Serve:
Return the cooked Cajun chicken and drained tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss everything together so the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the cheesy cream sauce. Heat for another 2 minutes to warm it all through.
Dish out onto plates and sprinkle with extra parsley and freshly cracked black pepper for a fresh, flavorful finish. Enjoy your delicious Cajun Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Three-Cheese Cream!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for faster thawing. Pat it dry to ensure it browns well.
Can I Substitute the Cheese Tortellini?
Absolutely! You can use ravioli, gnocchi, or even plain pasta if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to avoid overcooking.
How Can I Make This Dish Lighter?
Try using half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or swap cheddar for a milder cheese to lessen richness.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much.
