Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a comforting, creamy pasta dish that’s bursting with rich flavors. The tender chicken, savory garlic, and cheesy tortellini come together in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. It’s quick to prepare, filling, and loaded with comforting ingredients that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- Olive oil
- Garlic (minced)
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the tortellini. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the creamy sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spinach Addition: Stir in fresh spinach for added color and nutrients.
- Mushroom Twist: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, just follow the package instructions for cooking before adding to the dish.
What type of chicken works best?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well for this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat when ready to serve.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Let the sauce simmer a bit longer, or add more Parmesan cheese to achieve the desired consistency.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be slightly less rich and creamy.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Broccoli, peas, or bell peppers make great additions.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano is a good substitute with a similar sharp flavor.
How do I prevent the tortellini from becoming mushy?
Cook it just until al dente and avoid overcooking when combining with the sauce.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not recommended as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing, affecting the texture.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a flavorful, creamy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and rich Parmesan sauce makes it a satisfying meal the whole family will love. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste and texture!
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, comforting dish packed with tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights, yet delicious enough to serve for special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked (about 5–6 minutes). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. - Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor. - Cook the Tortellini:
Add the cheese tortellini directly to the skillet with the broth. Cover and cook for 4–5 minutes (or according to package instructions), stirring occasionally, until the tortellini is tender. - Combine Everything:
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir until everything is coated in the creamy sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. - Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.
Notes
- Protein Swap: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Veggie Boost: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *