If you’re craving a comforting, creamy dish that feels special yet comes together easily, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect balance of tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a dreamy garlic parmesan sauce that will have your whole kitchen smelling irresistible. Every bite bursts with flavor, and with just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a dinner that feels gourmet but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples that combine to create a rich and flavorful dish. Each component adds a unique taste and texture—from the juicy chicken to the silky sauce and the fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cubed for quick and even cooking, providing tender protein.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to brown the chicken beautifully and adds a subtle fruity note.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a mild savory depth to the seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an herbal touch that complements the creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick of heat, adjustable to your preference.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
- 20 oz package of refrigerated cheese tortellini: The star pasta, rich and cheesy, that soaks up the sauce perfectly.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and creates a luscious base for the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: The fresh garlic that makes the sauce aromatic and irresistible.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce its creamy, velvety texture.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and a savory depth without overpowering the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving: The nutty, salty cheese that defines the flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with freshness and a splash of green.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Fine-tuning the seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Adds warmth and final seasoning touch.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Start by mixing your cubed chicken breasts with olive oil and the seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper—to ensure every piece is packed with flavor. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. That nice sear on each piece locks in the juices and creates a deliciously golden crust. Once cooked through, set the chicken aside while you move on to the next steps.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Tortellini
While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in the refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. It usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes until they float to the surface, which means they’re tender and ready. Drain carefully and set aside. This tortellini is the perfect vehicle for carrying all the creamy, garlicky goodness we’re about to make.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until just fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes—watch closely so it doesn’t burn, or you’ll lose that delicate sweetness. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and slowly stir in the grated Parmesan until the sauce is smooth and silky.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Tortellini, and Sauce
Season the sauce with salt and pepper, remembering Parmesan is already salty, so start small. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat each piece with the velvety sauce. Fold in the tortellini carefully so it’s bathed in flavor but doesn’t get mushy. Let everything gently mingle for a few minutes on low heat, allowing those layers of taste to blend beautifully.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle in freshly chopped parsley. The green flecks not only add a burst of color but also a fresh flavor lift that keeps the dish from feeling too heavy. Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini hot with extra Parmesan on top for that final touch of decadence.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling your dish with extra grated Parmesan and fresh parsley is my go-to. It adds a lovely textured contrast and pops of brightness that make your plate look inviting. If you want a hint of extra spice, a few more red pepper flakes on top never hurt.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a simple green salad or garlic roasted vegetables brings variety to the meal. Crisp greens or charred veggies add refreshing crunch and balance to all that creamy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve this recipe in individual shallow pasta bowls or even on a bed of sautéed spinach to sneak in some greens. You can also add toasted pine nuts or crispy bacon bits for extra texture and flavor contrast that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for even tastier meals the next day.
Freezing
While this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results and reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.
Reheating
Warm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it back up without losing that luscious feel.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well; just adjust the cooking time accordingly, usually a minute or two longer than fresh or refrigerated pasta.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk combined with a bit of flour to thicken the sauce, but the texture won’t be as rich and creamy as with heavy cream.
Is it necessary to use fresh garlic if I already have garlic powder?
Fresh garlic gives the sauce a vibrant aroma and more distinct flavor, but in a pinch, garlic powder can work; just use about half the amount to avoid overpowering the dish.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
With some tweaks, yes! Use dairy-free butter and cream alternatives and a dairy-free cheese substitute, though the flavor will differ from the classic Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to your seasoning mix in Step 1 to kick up the heat without compromising the creamy flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe quickly became one of my go-to meals because it’s comfort food that feels special but is incredibly easy to make. From the first bite of tender chicken coated in velvety sauce to the cheesy tortellini that carries all that flavor, it’s a recipe that promises satisfaction every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken breast cooked in a rich garlic parmesan sauce, combined with cheese-filled tortellini pasta. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it balances savory spices, creamy sauce, and fresh parsley for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 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
Pasta
- 20 oz package of refrigerated cheese tortellini
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly until the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the spices.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until chicken is cooked through, lightly browned, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Tortellini: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes) until the tortellini float to the surface and are tender. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts fully, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Season the Sauce: Taste and season with salt and black pepper, keeping in mind Parmesan is salty, so add salt gradually.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat the pieces evenly with the garlic parmesan sauce.
- Add the Tortellini: Gently fold in the cooked tortellini to the skillet, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Simmer Briefly: Heat over low for a few minutes to meld flavors, taking care not to overcook the tortellini to prevent mushiness.
- Add Fresh Parsley: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
- Serve: Plate the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use refrigerated tortellini for best texture and quick cooking.
- You can substitute chicken thighs if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of crushed chili powder.
- The sauce can be made lighter by substituting half-and-half for heavy cream if desired.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to prevent the sauce from separating.
