Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is a flavor-packed fusion of heat, creaminess, and indulgence. The Cajun chicken brings a spicy, smoky depth, while the mozzarella-stuffed tortellini adds richness and texture. The Velveeta garlic sauce ties everything together with smooth, cheesy goodness that’s hard to resist. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend indulgence, offering restaurant-level satisfaction with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Cajun seasoning
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Garlic (minced)
- Cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- Velveeta cheese (cubed)
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- Heavy cream or whole milk
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Slice chicken into bite-sized strips and season generously with Cajun seasoning.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and sauté minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir. Add Velveeta cubes and stir until melted and fully incorporated into a creamy sauce.
- Stir in shredded mozzarella until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add cooked tortellini and toss gently until coated in the garlic Velveeta sauce.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well with the tortellini and sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Spicier version: Add crushed red pepper or extra Cajun seasoning for more heat.
- Vegetable boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Cheese twist: Try adding provolone or cheddar for a more complex flavor.
- Protein swap: Use shrimp or andouille sausage instead of chicken for a tasty variation.
- Low-carb alternative: Replace tortellini with sautéed zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
FAQs
What type of tortellini should I use?
Cheese-filled tortellini works best, but you can also use spinach or meat-filled versions depending on your taste.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just slice it and warm it in the sauce before serving.
How spicy is this dish?
It has moderate spice from the Cajun seasoning, but you can adjust it to your heat preference.
Is Velveeta necessary?
Velveeta provides a smooth, creamy texture. You can substitute with cream cheese or processed cheese alternatives, but results may vary.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, whole milk will work, though the sauce may be slightly thinner. Heavy cream gives the best results.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead. Cook tortellini fresh and combine before serving for the best texture.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.
How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?
Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to thin the sauce as needed.
What other herbs can I use?
Basil, thyme, or oregano can complement the flavors well.
What goes well with this dish?
Serve with a fresh green salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Cajun Mozzarella Chicken Tortellini in Velveeta Garlic Sauce is a bold, creamy, and satisfying pasta dish that combines spice, cheese, and comfort all in one. Perfect for cozy dinners or when you’re craving something rich and flavorful, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and big flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
PrintCajun Mozzarella Chicken Tortellini in Velveeta Garlic Sauce
Cajun Mozzarella Chicken Tortellini in Velveeta Garlic Sauce is a bold and creamy pasta dish featuring Cajun-spiced chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a smooth, velvety garlic cheese sauce made with Velveeta and mozzarella.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 20 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Slice chicken into bite-sized strips and season with Cajun seasoning.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet and sauté minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Velveeta cubes and stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir in shredded mozzarella until fully melted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and toss gently to coat.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the pasta and sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Use thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful chicken option.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning to control spice level.
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers for extra nutrients and texture.
- If the sauce gets too thick, thin it with milk or reserved pasta water.
- Best served fresh; cream sauces don’t freeze well.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 740
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 160mg