There’s something truly irresistible about Chicken Tortellini Alfredo – a creamy, cheesy dish that combines tender chicken with pillowy tortellini in a luscious Alfredo sauce. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and comfort, ideal for cozy dinners or impressing guests.
This recipe came to life during a hectic weeknight when I needed something quick and satisfying. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this has become one of my go-to dishes, especially when I want to wow the family without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Chicken Tortellini Alfredo
Get ready to discover your next family favorite! This Chicken Tortellini Alfredo delivers restaurant-quality taste with half the effort and cost.
First off, it’s ridiculously easy to make. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish on the table that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Busy weeknights have met their match!
Not only is this dish quick, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or protein swaps, making it adaptable to what you have on hand.
Let’s not forget about the crowd-pleasing factor. Creamy Alfredo sauce paired with cheesy tortellini and tender chicken is a combination even the pickiest eaters can’t resist.
Finally, it’s a one-pan wonder! With fewer dishes to clean, you’ll spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your evening.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this Chicken Tortellini Alfredo lies in its balance of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each element plays a key role in creating that creamy, savory perfection.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. They’re easy to cook and absorb the sauce beautifully. Slice them thin for quick cooking and even distribution.
- Tortellini: Fresh, refrigerated tortellini is the way to go. Cheese-filled tortellini complements the Alfredo sauce wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with spinach or meat-filled varieties.
- Alfredo Sauce: A combination of heavy cream, butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese makes for a rich, silky sauce. Grate your Parmesan fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Chicken Broth: This helps to thin out the sauce slightly and adds a savory depth that enhances the creaminess.
- Seasonings: Don’t skimp on salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Nutmeg is a classic addition that adds subtle warmth to Alfredo sauce.
Special equipment? A large skillet with high sides is ideal for cooking everything in one pan.
How To Make This Chicken Tortellini Alfredo
Making Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a breeze! Let me guide you through it step-by-step so you can whip up this delightful dish with confidence.
Start by prepping your ingredients. Cut the chicken into thin strips, mince your garlic, and measure out your ingredients. Having everything ready makes the cooking process seamless.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let it burn.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to slightly thicken, then whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked chicken and tortellini to the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in the sauce. Let it cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tortellini is heated through. Sprinkle with a little extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish, if desired.
Serve hot and watch as your family dives into this irresistible dish!
Storage Options
Leftovers of Chicken Tortellini Alfredo are just as delicious the next day, making it great for meal prep or lunches.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to the fridge.
- Freezing: While tortellini may not freeze perfectly, you can freeze portions of the sauce and chicken separately for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, prepare fresh tortellini and toss it with the thawed sauce and chicken.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ways to switch it up:
- Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or steamed broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
- Protein Swaps: Use shrimp or cooked Italian sausage in place of chicken for a delicious twist.
- Lighter Option: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a slightly lighter version.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like Romano or Gruyère for a unique spin on the sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free for a GF-friendly version.
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own. The possibilities are endless!
Closing Thoughts
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a satisfying meal on a busy weeknight, Chicken Tortellini Alfredo checks all the boxes. Its creamy, cheesy goodness is bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Try it tonight, and don’t forget to share your delicious results with family and friends!
PrintChicken Tortellini Alfredo Recipe
Indulge in this Chicken Tortellini Alfredo recipe, featuring tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or a quick yet delicious weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant (1 minute). Add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Slowly whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with black pepper, salt, and Italian seasoning.
- Add cooked tortellini and chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Substitute grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for added depth of flavor.
- For extra veggies, toss in spinach or steamed broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 720mg
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