Description
This creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender chicken and cheese tortellini are enveloped in a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce, then topped with melted mozzarella for an extra layer of cheesy goodness. Ready in under an hour, this skillet meal is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all ingredients.
Step 3: Add the cubed chicken to the skillet. Season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can make it bitter.
Step 5: Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth by pouring it into the skillet and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the broth to a simmer.
Step 6: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Whisk continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. This may take a few minutes.
Step 7: Add the cooked tortellini and cooked chicken back into the skillet. Toss gently to ensure that the tortellini and chicken are well coated in the garlic Parmesan sauce.
Step 8: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the tortellini and chicken mixture. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 9: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. It combines the comfort of pasta with the richness of a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and tender chicken, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s also versatile – you can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes for added flavor.
Tips:
- To prevent the chicken from drying out, avoid overcooking it.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to the skillet for added nutrients and flavor.
- For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Estimated, per serving)
- Calories: 590 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 700mg (This can vary widely based on the sodium content of the broth and cheese used.)
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini recipe is a fantastic option for a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner. Its rich and creamy sauce, combined with tender chicken and cheese tortellini, makes it an irresistible meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. With just a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can have this delicious dish on the table in under an hour. Enjoy!
Q&A:
Q1: Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Cook it according to the package instructions, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Q2: Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
A: Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter sauce. However, the sauce may not be as thick and creamy. You can also try using a combination of milk and a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, and bell peppers all make great additions. Add them to the skillet along with the garlic and sauté until tender.
Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time, but it’s best to add the mozzarella cheese just before serving. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Q5: Is it possible to bake this dish instead of cooking it on the stovetop?
A: Yes, you can transfer the tortellini, chicken, and sauce to a baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
