Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini: Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine tender, cheese-filled tortellini, bathed in a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce, and studded with juicy, perfectly cooked chicken. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.

Tortellini, those delightful little pasta rings, have a rich history rooted in the Emilia region of Italy. Legend has it that they were inspired by the goddess Venus’s navel – a truly divine origin! Over the centuries, tortellini have become a beloved staple in Italian cuisine, enjoyed in broths, with simple sauces, or, as we’re doing today, in a decadent cream sauce.

What makes Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini so irresistible? It’s the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce, infused with the pungent aroma of garlic and the salty tang of Parmesan, clings beautifully to the delicate tortellini. The chicken adds a satisfying protein element, making it a complete and fulfilling meal. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, making it a weeknight winner that will impress your family and friends. I find myself making this dish at least once a month because it’s so quick and satisfying!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 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
• For the Tortellini:
• 20 oz package of refrigerated cheese tortellini
• For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, let’s get the chicken ready. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the chicken instead of searing it. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
3. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and no longer pink inside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Cooking the Tortellini:

1. While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Adding salt to the water seasons the tortellini from the inside out.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the cheese tortellini. Cook according to the package directions, usually around 3-5 minutes, or until the tortellini floats to the surface and is tender.
3. Drain the cooked tortellini in a colander and set aside. Be careful not to overcook the tortellini, as they will become mushy.

Making the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

1. Now, let’s create that delicious garlic parmesan sauce. In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken (no need to wash it, those browned bits add flavor!), melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These browned bits are called fond, and they add a ton of flavor to the sauce.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Don’t let the sauce boil, as this can cause it to separate.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. The Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce.
6. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. The parsley adds a pop of freshness and color to the sauce.

Combining Everything:

1. Add the cooked chicken and drained tortellini to the skillet with the garlic parmesan sauce.
2. Gently toss everything together until the chicken and tortellini are evenly coated with the sauce.
3. Heat through for a minute or two, ensuring everything is warmed through.

Serving:

1. Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini immediately.
2. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a nice touch of heat.
3. Enjoy! This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Tips and Variations:

• Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tend to stay more moist during cooking.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables to this dish. Sautéed spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms would be delicious additions. Add them to the skillet after cooking the garlic and before adding the chicken broth.
• Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese. Asiago, Romano, or mozzarella would all be great additions to the sauce.
• Spices: Adjust the spices to your liking. Add more red pepper flakes for a spicier dish, or add a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary for a more herbaceous flavor.
• Wine: For a richer sauce, add a splash of dry white wine to the skillet after cooking the garlic. Let the wine reduce slightly before adding the chicken broth.
• Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors of the dish.
• Make it Creamier: For an even creamier sauce, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese to the sauce along with the Parmesan cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini to make this dish gluten-free.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Make Ahead Instructions:

You can prepare some of the components of this dish ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights.

• Chicken: The chicken can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Sauce: The garlic parmesan sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before adding the chicken and tortellini.

Nutritional Information (approximate):

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Calories: 650-750 per serving
• Protein: 40-50g
• Fat: 40-50g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g

Serving Suggestions:

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to round out your meal:

• Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots would be a healthy and flavorful side dish.

Troubleshooting:

• Sauce is too thick: Add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream to thin it out.
• Sauce is too thin: Simmer the sauce for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the sauce to thicken it quickly.
• Chicken is dry: Make sure not to overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Tortellini is mushy: Be careful not to overcook the tortellini. Cook according to the package directions, usually around 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are tender.

Conclusion:

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen, and trust me, you absolutely need to experience it. The creamy, garlicky sauce, the tender chicken, and the cheesy tortellini all come together in perfect harmony, creating a meal that’s both comforting and incredibly satisfying. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. Honestly, what’s not to love?

I know there are a million pasta recipes out there, but this one is special. It’s the kind of dish that becomes a family favorite, the one you crave on a chilly evening, the one you proudly share with friends. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the depth of flavor, and the ease of preparation makes it a winner in my book. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable!

Looking for serving suggestions? A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the richness of the pasta. Steamed broccoli or asparagus would also be fantastic. And for a truly decadent experience, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese and some fresh parsley on top just before serving.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with variations to make this recipe your own. If you’re a fan of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Sauté some spinach or mushrooms along with the garlic. You could even swap out the chicken for shrimp or Italian sausage for a different protein twist. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers. The possibilities are truly endless!

And speaking of possibilities, consider using different types of tortellini. Cheese tortellini is a classic choice, but spinach and ricotta or even mushroom tortellini would work beautifully. Don’t be afraid to get creative and find your perfect combination.

I’ve made this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I’m confident that you’ll love it just as much as I do. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and sophisticated flavor, making it a must-try for any pasta lover.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking! I promise you won’t regret it. And once you’ve tried it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! I can’t wait to see what you create. Happy cooking! I am sure this recipe will become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine. It’s a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to make it your own and enjoy the process!