Description

This Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce is a comforting and indulgent one-pan meal. Tender chicken is sautéed to golden perfection, then simmered in a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Soft cheese tortellini and fresh spinach are added to the sauce, creating a luscious, cheesy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.

Ingredients

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Chicken and Seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce and Pasta

2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
2 cups fresh baby spinach
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)

Garnish

Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden brown and cooked through, which takes about 6 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Make Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it slightly thickens, stirring occasionally.
Cook Tortellini: Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the sauce, cooking according to the package directions (typically 4 to 6 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent the tortellini from sticking to the skillet or each other.
Add Spinach and Chicken: Once the tortellini is tender, fold in the fresh baby spinach and the cooked chicken pieces. Allow the spinach to wilt and the chicken to heat through, stirring gently.
Melt Mozzarella: If you want extra cheesiness, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes until the mozzarella melts completely.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
If you don’t have refrigerated tortellini, frozen tortellini works as well; adjust cooking time accordingly.
For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
Fresh herbs like basil and parsley enhance the flavor when used as garnish but are optional.
To make this dish spicier, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian