Description
Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Asparagus & Bacon
Ingredients
1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Cook Tortellini:
Prepare tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sear Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear chicken pieces until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté Asparagus:
Add butter to the skillet and toss in asparagus. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine:
Add cooked tortellini, chicken, asparagus, and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
Serve:
Garnish with extra Parmesan and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results every time. Begin by prepping all ingredients: cut chicken, trim asparagus, cook bacon, and mince garlic. Use a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven for all cooking steps to build flavor. When searing the chicken, ensure the skillet is hot before adding the oil to get a golden crust. For the sauce, let the cream and broth simmer gently; a rapid boil can cause separation. Stir constantly while adding the Parmesan to create a smooth, velvety sauce. Finally, combine all elements off the heat to prevent overcooking the asparagus.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal, serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce. A glass of crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors perfectly. For presentation, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil in addition to the extra Parmesan.
How-to Summary
In summary, this 30-minute meal involves cooking tortellini, then using one skillet to sequentially sear seasoned chicken, sauté asparagus, and create a garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. All components are combined in the skillet with crumbled bacon for a quick, cohesive, and comforting dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Yes, shrimp or sliced Italian sausage are excellent substitutes for the chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use low-sodium chicken broth. The sauce will be slightly thinner but still delicious.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? You can prep components ahead, but combine just before serving, as the tortellini will absorb the sauce and the asparagus may lose its vibrant color.
What if my sauce is too thin? Let it simmer a few minutes longer to reduce. You can also create a quick slurry with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce.
Can I use sun-dried tomatoes? Absolutely. Add ¼ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) when making the sauce for a sweet, tangy twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the asparagus: Sauté just until tender-crisp; it will continue to cook when added back to the hot sauce.
- Crowding the chicken: Sear chicken in a single layer to ensure proper browning, not steaming.
- Adding cheese to a boiling sauce: Always reduce heat to a simmer before adding Parmesan to prevent a grainy texture.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and has superior flavor.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Asparagus & Bacon is the ultimate weeknight winner, delivering restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes. The combination of tender pasta, savory chicken, crisp asparagus, and smoky bacon in a luxurious Parmesan cream sauce is simply irresistible. It’s a versatile recipe that invites customization while remaining reliably delicious. Give it a try for a satisfying meal that is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.