Chicken Tortellini Alfredo Recipe

Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, soft cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich Alfredo sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or when you want to impress guests with a delicious, homemade meal. It’s creamy, cheesy, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a true comfort food classic. The rich and creamy Alfredo sauce blends perfectly with the tender chicken and pillowy tortellini, creating a dish that’s full of flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a meal that’s creamy, indulgent, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

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

• 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini

• 4 tablespoons light butter

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese (blended smooth)

• 1 1/2 cups milk (use your preference, e.g., skim or almond milk)

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced (plus extra for garnish)

• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Slice the chicken into thin strips and return it to the skillet, along with the cooked tortellini. Toss everything together until the tortellini is coated in the creamy sauce.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted tomatoes for a vegetarian version.

Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Different Protein: You can also use shrimp or turkey in place of the chicken for a different flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce smooth. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce if you’re short on time, but homemade sauce tastes richer and fresher.

2. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly in this dish. Just cook it according to the package directions.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

4. Can I make this dish without heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce may be a bit lighter in texture.

5. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken should have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy.

6. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives to make this dish dairy-free.

7. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas would be a great way to add extra flavor and nutrition.

8. Can I use a different type of pasta?
While tortellini is traditional for this dish, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as fettuccine or penne.

9. Can I freeze this dish?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can freeze the sauce and chicken (without the tortellini) for up to 1 month. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

10. Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a rich and creamy pasta dish that’s quick to make and incredibly satisfying. With its tender chicken, soft tortellini, and indulgent Alfredo sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food that can be enjoyed any day of the week. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a hit!

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