If you’re craving a dish that’s rich, creamy, and downright comforting, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. Combining tender, juicy chicken with pillowy cheese tortellini enveloped in a luscious garlic-parmesan sauce, it’s a delightful meal that feels both special and surprisingly easy to whip up. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe never fails to impress and satisfies every craving for bold flavor and creamy goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple yet essential, coming together perfectly to create that irresistible flavor and texture. From the savory seasonings on the chicken to the creamy Parmesan sauce, every component adds something special to the dish’s overall appeal.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs): Provides tender, juicy protein that absorbs the flavorful spices beautifully.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the chicken brown nicely and adds subtle richness.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Boosts the garlic flavor in every bite.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds savory depth without overpowering.
- Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Lends an earthy, aromatic note to the chicken seasoning.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): A gentle kick for those who like a hint of heat.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini (20 oz): The star pasta element, soft and cheesy, soaking up all that creamy sauce.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): Creates a rich base for the garlic and sauce.
- Minced garlic (4 cloves): Fresh garlic flavor that’s fragrant and irresistible.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds luscious creaminess and smooth texture to the sauce.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): The perfect liquid to add depth and thin out the sauce slightly.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, plus more for serving): The key to that signature savory, cheesy finish everyone will love.
- Chopped fresh parsley (1/4 cup): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and brightens the overall flavor.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by combining the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, red pepper flakes if you’re using them, salt, and pepper. Coating the chicken evenly with these simple spices ensures every bite will be bursting with flavor before anyone even sees the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken in a single layer until golden brown and cooked through. This step is crucial as it locks in juiciness while creating that enticing caramelized surface that adds texture and extra taste.
Step 3: Prepare the Tortellini
While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. The tender, cheesy pasta is the perfect partner to the savory chicken and creamy sauce.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt butter and gently cook minced garlic until fragrant. Adding heavy cream and chicken broth next, bring to a simmer then stir in grated Parmesan cheese. The sauce should become luxuriously creamy and smooth—this blend is what makes the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe truly unforgettable.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, then add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Gently fold in the tortellini to ensure every piece is perfectly coated. Heat everything together briefly so the flavors meld nicely without overcooking the pasta.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Parsley
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in fresh parsley. This final step brings a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that balances the rich, creamy sauce perfectly.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh parsley leaves on top before serving to add a beautiful presentation and enhance the cheesy, herbaceous notes that make this dish shine.
Side Dishes
A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables makes a wonderful accompaniment, helping to cut through the richness of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe and add some fresh texture and brightness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish in individual shallow bowls garnished with a lemon wedge for a subtle zesty contrast. You could also toast some garlic bread on the side to complete the comforting, Italian-inspired experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together and deepen after resting, making leftovers just as delicious as the first serving.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but tortellini tends to soften further after thawing. If you plan to freeze the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe, it’s best to store the sauce and chicken separately from the pasta to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid microwaving at high heat to preserve the sauce’s creaminess and prevent the tortellini from becoming mushy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works well too; just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on package instructions. Usually, frozen tortellini may take a minute or two longer to cook and should still come out wonderfully tender.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal here for ease of cooking and lean protein. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier, slightly fattier meat that adds extra flavor.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a vegan Parmesan substitute. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes would make fantastic additions and boost both nutrition and flavor complexity in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe.
How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth without making the dish overly spicy. If you prefer more heat, feel free to increase the amount, or omit it altogether for a milder cream sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe is one of those dishes that makes you want to linger over the table, savoring every creamy, garlicky bite. Its balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and comforting texture make it a true crowd-pleaser and a go-to recipe I’m excited for you to try soon. Trust me, once you taste it, it may just become your new favorite weeknight dinner!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a flavorful and easy one-pan dish featuring tender cubed chicken breasts cooked with aromatic spices, simmered in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, and combined with cheesy tortellini. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it balances rich creaminess with fresh parsley brightness, all ready in under 45 minutes.
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
Garnish
- 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, dried oregano, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss well to ensure the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the spices.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Boil the Tortellini: While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, about 3 to 5 minutes, until the tortellini floats to the surface and becomes tender.
- Drain Tortellini: Drain the cooked tortellini well using a colander and set aside to keep warm.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring occasionally. Bring the sauce mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Melt the Parmesan Cheese: Lower the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.
- Season the Sauce: Taste the sauce and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Because Parmesan is naturally salty, start with a small amount of salt and adjust as needed for balance.
- Combine Chicken with Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir well to coat the pieces evenly with the garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Incorporate Tortellini: Gently fold the cooked tortellini into the skillet, mixing carefully to coat with the sauce without breaking the pasta.
- Meld Flavors: Continue heating the combined mixture over low heat for a few minutes to blend flavors. Avoid overheating to prevent the tortellini from becoming mushy.
- Add Fresh Parsley: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired, for a rich and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked fully to 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor but avoid burning it to maintain a pleasant aroma.
- Adjust salt cautiously as Parmesan cheese adds natural saltiness to the dish.
- Do not overcook tortellini during final heating to keep texture firm and avoid mushiness.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy.
- Red pepper flakes are optional if you prefer a mild dish without heat.
