If you are searching for an irresistible weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe is the answer you didn’t know you needed. Tender chicken cubes, luxurious creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and pillowy cheese tortellini come together to create a comforting, flavorful dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to make. It’s a one-pan wonder that captures the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and herby notes, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients are the heart and soul of this dish. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s building flavor, creating sumptuous creaminess, or adding fresh brightness to the final plate.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender protein that cooks quickly and soaks up the garlicky spices beautifully.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps perfectly sear the chicken.
- Garlic powder and minced garlic: Two forms of garlic layer the flavor, offering both depth and fresh aroma.
- Onion powder: Enhances savory undertones without overwhelming the dish.
- Dried oregano: Adds a Mediterranean touch with gentle herbaceous notes.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little kick, this ingredient brings just enough heat without stealing the show.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Simple seasonings that make every flavor pop.
- Cheese tortellini: Pillowy pasta pockets filled with creamy cheese, providing indulgence in every bite.
- Butter: Creates a rich, silky base for the garlic sauce.
- Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its luscious, velvety texture.
- Chicken broth: Balances richness by adding a subtle savory liquid note.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient for an authentic, nutty, and tangy finish.
- Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with a fresh, green contrast.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Begin by coating the cubed chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, plus salt and pepper. This simple but flavorful mix is the foundation for your tender chicken. Heat your skillet until nice and hot, then add the chicken in a single layer. Cooking it in batches ensures a perfect golden-brown sear, locking in juices and flavor. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly browned.
Step 2: Boil the Tortellini
While the chicken sizzles, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in the cheese tortellini and cook them until they float to the surface and are perfectly tender—usually just 3 to 5 minutes. Drain thoroughly, as excess water would dilute your rich sauce later on.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Using the same skillet that carries the flavorful chicken bits, melt butter over medium heat and add the fresh minced garlic. Cook it gently until you can smell that intoxicating aroma, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Then, lower the heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and heavenly. Season with a little salt and pepper, always tasting as you go since Parmesan adds natural saltiness.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Tortellini
Add the cooked chicken pieces back into the skillet to bathe in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Toss in the drained tortellini and fold everything together gently until those cheesy pasta pillows are well coated in the luscious sauce. Keep the heat low for just a few minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld perfectly without making the tortellini mushy.
Step 5: Final Touch and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley into the mixture for a pop of color and freshness. Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe is now ready to be devoured—top it off with extra Parmesan cheese and maybe a little extra parsley for that restaurant-quality finish.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of extra grated Parmesan cheese instantly elevates the dish, adding an irresistible salty tang. Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of green but also a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sauce. For a little crunch, toasted pine nuts or crispy fried shallots make fabulous finishing touches.
Side Dishes
Since the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe is hearty all on its own, keep your sides light and fresh. A crisp garden salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a zesty balance. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans provide texture and color on the plate. If you want to add carbs, a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for sopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, serve this dish family-style directly from the skillet so everyone can dig in together. To impress guests, plate individual portions with a drizzle of extra sauce, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and a small Parmesan crisp on the side. You could also nestle the tortellini alongside a vibrant vegetable puree for a restaurant-worthy presentation that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish keeps well for up to 3 days, allowing those rich flavors to deepen even further overnight. When you’re ready to eat again, it’s like giving yourself a second treat.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance or save some for later, this recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture of the tortellini might soften slightly after freezing, so it’s best used within that timeframe.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating or scorching. You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the silky texture. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until warmed through. The creamy garlic Parmesan flavors will come back to life with just a little tender loving care.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well; just add a minute or two to the cooking time according to package instructions. Make sure to drain well before adding it to the sauce to avoid excess moisture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables to the creamy sauce for an equally satisfying vegetarian version of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe.
Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?
While Parmesan adds a classic nutty tang that perfectly complements the dish, you can experiment with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a slightly different but still delicious flavor profile.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
Red pepper flakes add just a gentle kick that warms the palate but don’t overpower the creamy sauce. You can always adjust the amount or leave them out entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce turns out thicker than you like, simply stir in a little more chicken broth or heavy cream until you reach your desired consistency. This adaptability makes the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe a forgiving and easy meal to perfect.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe is pure comfort food magic, combining simple ingredients into one glorious, creamy plate. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing friends, it’s a dish that invites smiles and seconds. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and make it a beloved favorite in your kitchen rotation—you might just find yourself making it over and over again!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, rich, and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken breast cubes, cheese tortellini, and a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce. This easy-to-make skillet recipe combines simple seasonings with fresh parsley for a satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Pasta
- 20 oz package of refrigerated cheese tortellini
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly with all the spices.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer, cooking in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, lightly browned on all sides, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove chicken and set aside.
- Boil the Tortellini: While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook per package instructions, about 3-5 minutes, until tender and floating to the surface. Drain well and set aside.
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring occasionally, and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in grated Parmesan until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the Sauce: Add salt and pepper to taste, balancing the saltiness carefully since Parmesan is already salty.
- Combine Chicken with Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Add Tortellini: Gently fold in the cooked tortellini, making sure each piece is well coated with the sauce.
- Warm Through: Heat everything over low heat for a few minutes to meld flavors, avoiding overcooking the tortellini to prevent mushiness.
- Finish with Parsley: Remove skillet from heat and stir in the fresh chopped parsley to add brightness and color.
- Serve: Serve the garlic Parmesan chicken tortellini immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or add some crushed chili flakes.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less creamy.
- If you prefer, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth for a milder flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor results.
- Cook tortellini just until al dente to avoid mushy pasta in the final dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
