Description
This creamy Chicken Tortellini Alfredo combines tender bite-sized chicken pieces with cheese-filled tortellini pasta, all enveloped in a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a comforting and satisfying Italian-inspired meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Boil the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside for later.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to begin forming the sauce.
- Incorporate Cheese and Thicken Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens. If desired, add a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavor.
- Toss Tortellini in Sauce: Add the cooked tortellini back into the skillet and gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce and chicken.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving to add a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream but the sauce will be less rich.
- Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition and color.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
