Chicken Alfredo Tortellini is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich, creamy Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and cheesy tortellini. Here’s why you’ll love this dish:
1. Indulgent Creaminess
The velvety Alfredo sauce, made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese, coats every bite in a luscious, savory flavor. The cheese-filled tortellini adds another layer of richness, making this dish extra indulgent.
2. Quick and Easy to Make
With just a few simple ingredients, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Using store-bought tortellini and rotisserie chicken can save even more time.
3. A Hearty, Satisfying Meal
Packed with protein from the chicken and carbs from the pasta, this dish is incredibly filling. The combination of creamy sauce and cheesy tortellini ensures you won’t leave the table hungry.
4. Versatile and Customizable
You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Swap chicken for shrimp or sausage for a different twist.
Whether for a family dinner or a cozy night in, Chicken Alfredo Tortellini is a classic that never disappoints!
Chicken Alfredo Tortellini – A Creamy and Comforting Classic
Description
Chicken Alfredo Tortellini is a rich and comforting dish that combines tender cheese-filled tortellini with a creamy, garlicky Alfredo sauce.
Juicy, seasoned chicken pieces add heartiness, while Parmesan cheese and butter enhance the luxurious texture.
This easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Serve it with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete, satisfying meal. Whether made from scratch or with store-bought ingredients, this dish is a family favorite that brings indulgence to every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the Tortellini:
- Boil tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
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In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
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Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously.
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Bring to a gentle simmer, then add Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
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Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
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Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked tortellini and shredded chicken to the sauce.
- Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
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Serve & Garnish:
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Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
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Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.
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Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 750kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 39g60%
- Saturated Fat 21g105%
- Cholesterol 135mg45%
- Sodium 1690mg71%
- Total Carbohydrate 68g23%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 31g62%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Chicken Alfredo Tortellini – Tips, Tricks & Servings
Tips for the Best Chicken Alfredo Tortellini
- Use Fresh or Frozen Tortellini Wisely
- Fresh tortellini cooks in just 3-4 minutes, while frozen tortellini takes about 5-7 minutes. Cook just until al dente to prevent sogginess.
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged grated cheese for a smoother, richer Alfredo sauce.
- Heavy cream is best for a thick, creamy texture, but you can lighten it up with half-and-half if desired.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Season well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before cooking.
- Searing the chicken in butter or olive oil before slicing ensures juicy and flavorful pieces.
- Make a Silky Alfredo Sauce
- Melt butter and sauté garlic for extra flavor before adding heavy cream and Parmesan.
- Stir continuously while adding the cheese to prevent lumps. If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with reserved pasta water.
- Enhance the Flavor
- A pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes adds depth to the Alfredo sauce.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add color and freshness to the dish.
- Avoid Overcooking
- Once the tortellini is added to the sauce, stir gently and heat just until combined. Overheating can make the pasta too soft.
- Make It a One-Pan Dish
- Cook the chicken in the same pan as the sauce to absorb all the delicious flavors. Adding the tortellini directly to the sauce also minimizes cleanup.
Serving Tricks & Variations
- Serving Size & Portions
- This dish typically serves 4-6 people, depending on portion size. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Best Side Dishes
- Garlic Bread: A crispy side to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans balance out the richness.
- Caesar Salad: The tangy dressing pairs well with Alfredo.
- Creative Variations
- Add Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes give extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make It Spicy: A dash of Cajun seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes adds heat.
- Use Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp, sausage, or even grilled tofu for variety.
- Make It Ahead
- Prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and reheat gently before mixing with cooked tortellini.
- Storing & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the pasta mushy.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Chicken Alfredo Tortellini with these easy tips and tricks!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works just as well as fresh. If using frozen, you can either cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the Alfredo sauce or let it simmer directly in the sauce until tender.
This may take a few extra minutes, but it enhances the flavor as the pasta absorbs the creamy sauce.
What’s the Best Way to Make Alfredo Sauce from Scratch?
Homemade Alfredo sauce is simple and tastes much better than store-bought versions. To make it, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a pan, add 3 cloves of minced garlic, and sauté for 1 minute.
Stir in 2 cups of heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Add 1 ½ cups of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth. If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with pasta water or milk.
Can I Add Vegetables or Other Proteins?
Absolutely! Popular veggie additions include spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or broccoli. For extra protein, grilled or shredded chicken is commonly used, but shrimp or Italian sausage are great alternatives.
If adding vegetables, sauté them before combining them with the sauce to enhance flavor and texture.
