Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish that combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a velvety Alfredo sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion, whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or serving a special meal for guests. The homemade Alfredo sauce is made with butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, giving it that signature creamy, cheesy goodness that complements the chicken and tortellini perfectly. Quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor, this dish will quickly become a favorite!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 (9 oz) package of cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Extra Parmesan cheese, for topping

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the chicken:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
Cook the tortellini:
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, typically 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini or 7-8 minutes for frozen tortellini. Drain and set aside.
Make the Alfredo sauce:
- In the same skillet that you cooked the chicken in, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, until it slightly thickens.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder (if using), and ground nutmeg (optional). Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
Combine the ingredients:
- Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, gently tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
- Add the sliced chicken to the skillet and toss again to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through.
Serve:
- Serve the Chicken Tortellini Alfredo in bowls or on plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Enjoy with a side salad or garlic bread for the ultimate meal!

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the dish for more color and nutrition. You can either stir them into the Alfredo sauce or serve them as a side.
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Use different protein: If you don’t have chicken, try substituting with shrimp or turkey.
Lighten it up: Use half-and-half or skim milk instead of heavy cream, and opt for reduced-fat Parmesan cheese to make the sauce lighter.

Storage

Storage: Leftover Chicken Tortellini Alfredo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and bring back its creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a bit more cream or milk to bring it back to a smooth consistency.

Can I use store-bought tortellini?

Absolutely! Store-bought tortellini, whether fresh or frozen, works perfectly in this recipe and will save you time.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker Alfredo sauce, you can add more Parmesan cheese or let the sauce simmer a little longer to reduce and thicken.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, simply skip the chicken and add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers to the dish.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortellini (available at many grocery stores) and ensure that the Parmesan cheese and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is the perfect comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or a delicious weekend meal. The rich Alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and cheesy tortellini, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for the family or treating yourself to something special, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen!