Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients
1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Cook the Tortellini: Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and tortellini to the skillet. Stir to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~480 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, gather all ingredients and prep your chicken and garlic. Use a large, deep skillet for the entire cooking process to build flavor. After searing the chicken and setting it aside, do not wipe the skillet; the browned bits are key for the sauce. When making the sauce, keep the heat at medium to prevent the cream from scalding. Add the Parmesan cheese off the heat initially, stirring constantly to ensure it melts smoothly into the cream and broth without clumping. Finally, return the skillet to low heat to gently warm the combined chicken and tortellini, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This rich dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad dressed with a lemony vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. For a vegetable side, consider simple steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach. To elevate the meal for guests, garnish with extra Parmesan shavings and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
How-to Summary
In summary: cook tortellini, then sear seasoned chicken. In the same pan, make a sauce by sautéing garlic in butter, then adding broth, cream, and Parmesan. Combine cooked pasta and chicken with the sauce, simmer briefly, and garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes. While cheese tortellini is ideal, you can use mushroom tortellini, cheese ravioli, or even fettuccine. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be thinner. You can also use low-sodium broth and less butter.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, as it thickens when chilled.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep components ahead, but combine just before serving. Cook the tortellini and chicken, and make the sauce, storing them separately. Gently reheat the sauce and combine with the other elements.
My sauce is too thin/thick. How can I fix it? If too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce. If too thick, stir in an extra tablespoon or two of chicken broth until desired consistency is reached.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the tortellini, as it will continue to soften in the sauce—cook it al dente. Do not cook the garlic over high heat, as it will burn and become bitter. Ensure your Parmesan is finely grated from a block; pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Finally, do not add cold chicken or pasta directly to the hot sauce, as it will cool the sauce down too much; ensure they are warm when combining.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is the ultimate weeknight comfort food, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can create a consistently delicious, crowd-pleasing meal. Its versatility and rich, satisfying sauce make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Enjoy this hearty dish with your family for a memorable dinner.