Chicken Tortellini Alfredo Recipe

The Creamiest Chicken Tortellini Alfredo Recipe For Pasta Lovers

Creamy pasta dishes spark joy at every dinner table, and this chicken tortellini alfredo recipe delivers pure comfort in every bite.

Rich, velvety sauce coats tender cheese-filled tortellini with succulent chicken pieces.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet delectable meals that satisfy hunger and delight taste buds.

Each forkful brings together classic Italian flavors with a luxurious, smooth texture that feels like a warm culinary embrace.

The combination of perfectly cooked chicken and cheese tortellini creates a harmonious blend of protein and pasta.

Cheese lovers and comfort food enthusiasts will absolutely adore this straightforward yet impressive dish.

Steps for Silky Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

Step 1: Boil Delicious Tortellini

Get a large pot of water bubbling and drop in your tortellini.

Follow the package directions to cook until perfectly tender.

Once done, carefully drain the pasta and set it to the side, ready for its creamy adventure.

Step 2: Create Flavor Magic with Butter and Garlic

Grab a spacious skillet and melt butter over medium heat.

Toss in finely chopped garlic and let it dance around the pan, releasing its amazing aroma.

Stir gently until the garlic becomes wonderfully fragrant and slightly golden.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Alfredo Sauce

Pour in smooth heavy cream and let it start simmering softly.

Sprinkle in:
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Whisk everything together until the sauce transforms into a silky, luxurious blend that looks absolutely irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Tortellini

Add pre-cooked chicken pieces and your perfectly drained tortellini into the creamy sauce.

Gently toss everything so each pasta pocket gets completely coated in the rich, dreamy sauce.

Step 5: Final Warm-Up

Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through and mingling together beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Serve immediately while the dish is hot and inviting.

Tips for Creamy Alfredo Every Time

  • Follow package instructions precisely to avoid overcooking, ensuring al dente texture with ideal firmness and flavor.
  • Maintain low-medium heat while stirring Parmesan cheese to create smooth, creamy Alfredo sauce without curdling.
  • Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, tofu, or roasted vegetables for diverse dietary preferences and exciting meal variations.
  • Add extra Parmesan cheese for thicker sauce or splash of pasta water to thin out Alfredo if needed, adjusting texture to personal preference.
  • Chop parsley just before garnishing to maximize aromatic flavor and add vibrant color to the final dish.

Pasta Alfredo Variations You’ll Enjoy

  • Vegetarian Comfort: Replace chicken with roasted cauliflower or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty meat-free version that delivers rich, creamy flavors.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortellini and swap regular flour-based pasta with certified gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Lighter Alfredo Approach: Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half, reducing calories while maintaining a silky sauce texture.
  • Spicy Mediterranean Remix: Add red pepper flakes, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil to create a zesty, herb-infused interpretation of the classic recipe.

Chicken Alfredo Serving Suggestions

  • Gourmet Garnish Party: Sprinkle extra fresh parsley or chopped basil on top for a burst of color and herbal freshness.
  • Cheese Lover's Dream: Grate additional Parmesan or sprinkle some shredded mozzarella for extra cheesy goodness.
  • Veggie Boost Companion: Add roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach on the side to create a more balanced and nutritious meal.
  • Crunchy Texture Topper: Scatter some toasted pine nuts or crispy breadcrumbs over the dish for a delightful textural contrast.

Chicken Tortellini Alfredo Storage Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, keeping the dish fresh and safe to eat later.
  • Place portion in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few drops of water to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
  • Pour leftovers into a skillet, add splash of cream or milk to restore sauce's creamy consistency. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring gently until heated thoroughly, about 4-5 minutes.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly. Just cook according to package instructions and follow the recipe as normal.

  • What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breast, or leftover roasted chicken are excellent choices. Ensure the chicken is cooked and shredded or diced before adding to the sauce.

  • Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Replace chicken with plant-based protein or keep it as a simple cheese tortellini Alfredo.

Reasons to Crave Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

  • Whip Up Creamy Comfort: A rich, indulgent dish that wraps you in warm, cheesy goodness with minimal cooking skills required.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap chicken for other proteins or add vegetables to make this recipe uniquely yours without complicated adjustments.
  • Quick Family Pleaser: Perfect for busy weeknights, delivering restaurant-quality taste in just a few simple steps that everyone will love.
  • Crowd-Winning Classic: An impressive meal that works brilliantly for casual dinners, potlucks, or when you want to treat yourself to something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Chicken Tortellini Alfredo Ingredients Guide

Main Ingredients:
  • Tortellini: Pasta pockets filled with cheese that provide the hearty base of the dish.
  • Chicken: Protein that adds substance and flavor to the creamy pasta.
  • Heavy Cream: Rich dairy ingredient that creates the luxurious Alfredo sauce base.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Sharp and salty cheese that enhances the sauce's depth and creaminess.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Garlic, Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that build layers of flavor in the Alfredo sauce.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright herb that adds a pop of color and fresh taste to the finished dish.
Cooking Fats:
  • Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps create a smooth sauce base.
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Chicken Tortellini Alfredo Recipe

Chicken Tortellini Alfredo Recipe


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4.7 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Creamy chicken tortellini alfredo brings Italian comfort straight to your kitchen, promising a luxurious dining experience. Cheese-laden pasta and tender chicken create a delightful harmony that will satisfy your most indulgent cravings.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
  • 1 12 cups (354 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish:

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare tortellini according to package directions, ensuring al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
  2. Heat skillet over medium temperature, melting butter until golden and bubbling.
  3. Introduce minced garlic to butter, sautéing for 30-45 seconds until aromatic and lightly golden.
  4. Pour heavy cream into skillet, allowing gentle simmer to develop. Whisk in Parmesan cheese gradually, incorporating salt and pepper until sauce becomes silky and uniform.
  5. Fold cooked chicken into creamy mixture, ensuring even distribution of sauce.
  6. Add reserved tortellini to skillet, gently tossing to completely envelop pasta with Alfredo sauce.
  7. Maintain low heat, warming contents for 2-3 minutes until chicken and pasta reach consistent temperature throughout.
  8. Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley across surface for vibrant color and herbal essence.
  9. Transfer to serving platter, ensuring each portion receives equal amounts of chicken, tortellini, and luxurious sauce.

Notes

  • Use high-quality tortellini for the most authentic flavor and texture in this creamy dish.
  • Consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor depth.
  • Grate fresh Parmesan cheese directly into the sauce for a more intense, authentic taste compared to pre-packaged options.
  • Adjust sauce consistency by adding a splash of pasta water if it becomes too thick during cooking.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 720 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 48 g
  • Saturated Fat: 28 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 42 g
  • Cholesterol: 160 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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