This Creamy Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken is a rich, flavorful pasta dish that combines tender chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and soft cheese tortellini into a perfect comfort meal. It’s quick and easy to make, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is the ultimate comfort food, with its creamy, cheesy sauce and the heartiness of shredded chicken and tortellini. The Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor, while the garlic infuses the sauce with a savory aroma. It’s a one-pan meal that’s simple to prepare but tastes indulgent, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a special treat for family and friends.
Ingredients
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2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
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1 package cheese tortellini
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 clove garlic, minced
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Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
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Add the shredded chicken, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and the chicken is heated through.
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Toss the cooked tortellini into the skillet, coating it well with the creamy sauce.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Vegetarian version: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian alternative.
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Extra creamy: Add more heavy cream or a splash of milk for a richer sauce.
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Spicy kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
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Cheese blend: For a twist, try mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or Asiago for added depth.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftover creamy Parmesan tortellini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: To reheat, place the tortellini in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes. You may want to add a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce smooth. Alternatively, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works just as well as fresh. Just cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
You can substitute tortellini with any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a bit of heat, stir in some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce when making the sauce.
4. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
5. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, use a non-dairy cream substitute, such as coconut cream or almond milk, and a dairy-free Parmesan cheese alternative.
6. Can I use store-bought shredded chicken?
Yes, store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and add it to the sauce.
7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the tortellini ahead of time, then simply combine and reheat when ready to serve.
8. How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes, or add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with water to help it thicken up.
9. Can I make this dish without heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with milk, though the sauce may be slightly less rich. For a similar creaminess, use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
10. What can I serve with this dish?
This creamy Parmesan tortellini pairs perfectly with a side salad, garlic bread, or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Creamy Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken is a deliciously simple dish that delivers all the comforting flavors you crave. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and soft cheese tortellini makes it the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for the family or making a special dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
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Creamy Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Creamy Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken! This quick and easy recipe combines tender shredded chicken, soft cheese tortellini, and a creamy Parmesan sauce for a rich and satisfying meal. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a special treat for family and friends.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
1 package cheese tortellini
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
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Add the shredded chicken, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and the chicken is heated through.
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Toss the cooked tortellini into the skillet, coating it well with the creamy sauce.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.
Notes
-
Vegetarian version: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian alternative.
-
Extra creamy: Add more heavy cream or a splash of milk for a richer sauce.
-
Spicy kick: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
-
Cheese blend: For a twist, try mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or Asiago for added depth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
