Chicken Tortellini is the kind of comfort food that hits the spot every time. With tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy sauce, it’s a hearty meal that’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough for guests.
Why We Love This Chicken Tortellini Recipe
The love for Chicken Tortellini often stems from its perfect blend of flavors and textures. The delicious combination of tender chicken, rich cream, and the delightful bite of tortellini creates a harmonious balance that appeals to all palates. Not only is it flavor-packed, but it’s also relatively easy to prepare. You can have a comforting, hearty meal on the table in less than an hour.
Beyond its taste, Chicken Tortellini is adaptable. You can modify the ingredients to cater to your dietary preferences while still retaining its essence. Whether you prefer more vegetables or want to eliminate certain carbs, the dish embraces flexibility without losing its charm. It’s also a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a family favorite.
In short, this Chicken Tortellini recipe is beloved not just for its flavor but for its ease of preparation and versatility, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for Chicken Tortellini
To make your Chicken Tortellini, you’ll need the following ingredients, each bringing its unique flavor and texture to this delightful dish:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 shallot, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup (3oz) tomato paste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb (16oz) cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- Fresh basil, for serving
- Black pepper, for serving
- Red pepper flakes, for serving
- Parmesan, for serving
How to Make Chicken Tortellini
Creating Chicken Tortellini may seem daunting, but with a step-by-step approach, you’ll find it quite straightforward. Here’s how to put it all together:
1. Season the Chicken
Begin by preparing the chicken. In a bowl, season the chicken chunks with kosher salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Be sure to coat the chicken evenly. After seasoning, sprinkle the flour over the chicken, tossing again to ensure all pieces are lightly coated. This will help achieve a nice golden crust during cooking.
2. Cook the Chicken
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and one tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil, allowing the butter to melt completely. Once the mixture is hot and bubbly, carefully add the seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until it is browned and fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Then, introduce the minced shallot and garlic, sautéing them for about three minutes until they become fragrant and slightly translucent. Next, add the red pepper flakes and sun-dried tomatoes, stirring for an additional minute. Following this, incorporate the tomato paste and chicken broth. While mixing, be sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any tasty bits that may have stuck. This will deepen the flavor of your sauce.
4. Add the Tortellini
It’s time to bring in the tortellini! Stir the cheese-filled tortellini into the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, covering the skillet. Allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking. The tortellini should be tender yet still hold their shape.
5. Finish It Up
Once the tortellini are cooked, it’s time to finish your dish. Add the previously cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with the chopped spinach, heavy cream, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until combined and the spinach has wilted. Your Chicken Tortellini is now ready to serve!
How to Serve Chicken Tortellini
Serving Chicken Tortellini is all about presentation and enhancing the flavors. Here are a few ideas to elevate your dish:
- Plating: Serve the Chicken Tortellini in shallow bowls, allowing the rich sauce to pool around the pasta. A sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds a beautiful pop of color.
- Toppings: After plating, you can add more freshly grated parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy kick. A dash of black pepper and a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the dish’s overall flavor and add some heat.
- Accompaniments: Pair your meal with crusty garlic bread or a side salad to balance out the creaminess of the tortellini. A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish perfectly.
- Finishing Touch: For a touch of luxury, drizzle a little extra-virgin olive oil over the top before serving. This not only adds flavor but also raises the dish’s aesthetic appeal.
With these serving suggestions, your Chicken Tortellini will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on the dinner table.
Expert Tips for Chicken Tortellini
To make your Chicken Tortellini experience even better, consider implementing the following expert tips:
- Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible. Fresh chicken, whole spices, and high-quality olive oil significantly enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: If you’d like a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers. You can also use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
- Pre-Made Tortellini: To save time, consider using store-bought tortellini. Choose a high-quality brand to maintain authentic flavors.
- Adjusting Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, allow it to simmer longer to reduce.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Just reheat gently and add the cooked tortellini and spinach just before serving for a quick and flavorful meal.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on how spicy you want your dish. A pinch more can add a lovely kick, while less will keep it milder.
With these tips, you’ll master Chicken Tortellini, ensuring every bite is filled with delicious flavors.
How to Store Chicken Tortellini
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Chicken Tortellini properly is essential to maintain its flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Cooling: Allow the Chicken Tortellini to cool down for about 30 minutes after cooking. This prevents condensation from forming in the container, which can lead to sogginess.
- Containers: Transfer the cooled dish into an airtight container. If you have prepared a large batch, consider dividing it into smaller portions for easier reheating.
- Refrigeration: Store the sealed container in the refrigerator. Leftover Chicken Tortellini can last for 3-4 days. Ensure you enjoy it within that timeframe for the best taste and quality.
- Freezing: If you want to keep your Chicken Tortellini longer, you can freeze it. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your Chicken Tortellini whenever the craving strikes!
Variations of Chicken Tortellini
The beauty of Chicken Tortellini lies in its adaptability. Here are some variations that can spice up your cooking routine:
- Vegetable-Loaded: Add seasonal vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition and texture. Sauté them with the shallots and garlic at the beginning.
- Pesto Twist: Swapping the heavy cream for pesto can create a vibrant and herbaceous sauce. This variation takes on a different flavor profile while remaining creamy.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Cream: If you love sun-dried tomatoes, add more to the sauce or even blend them into the cream for a more intense flavor.
- Spicy Chicken Tortellini: Add extra red pepper flakes or even a few dashes of hot sauce to ramp up the heat level for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in different types of cheese during the final stage—consider mozzarella, ricotta, or even goat cheese for a distinct flavor variation.
- Seafood Option: For a different take, substitute chicken with shrimp or scallops. The cooking time may vary slightly, but the seafood will add a unique and delightful taste.
These variations ensure that each time you make Chicken Tortellini, it feels like a new dish while staying true to its comforting roots.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tortellini
What type of tortellini should I use for this Chicken Tortellini recipe?
You can use any stuffed tortellini, but cheese tortellini is recommended for its creamy texture, which complements the sauce beautifully.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! You can replace chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Chicken Tortellini gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta alternatives. These are widely available and often taste great in various dishes.
Can I prepare Chicken Tortellini ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Combine them with the tortellini just before serving to keep everything fresh.
What do I do if the sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is thicker than desired, simply add more chicken broth or cream until you reach your preferred consistency.
Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch chunks Use fresh chicken for the best flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour For coating the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided One for cooking chicken, one for sauce.
For the sauce
- 1 medium shallot, minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup tomato paste About 3oz.
- 2 cups chicken broth
For the main dish
- 1 lb cheese tortellini Use fresh or frozen.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated For serving.
- Fresh basil for serving Garnish.
- Black pepper for serving Optional.
- Red pepper flakes for serving Optional.
- Parmesan for serving Optional.
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken with kosher salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Coat the chicken evenly, then sprinkle with flour and toss to coat.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, add the butter and one tablespoon of olive oil, and then add the seasoned chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
Building the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add shallot and garlic, sauté for about three minutes until fragrant.
- Add red pepper flakes and sun-dried tomatoes, stirring for an additional minute.
- Incorporate the tomato paste and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet.
Cooking the Tortellini
- Stir the tortellini into the skillet. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring halfway to prevent sticking.
Finishing Touch
- Add the cooked chicken, spinach, heavy cream, and parmesan to the skillet. Stir until combined and the spinach has wilted.