If you’re craving a creamy, cheesy pasta dinner that comes together quickly, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is just what you need. Juicy chicken, tender cheese-filled tortellini, and a velvety garlic Parmesan sauce create a meal that feels indulgent yet simple enough for a busy weeknight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan friendly (less cleanup).
- Creamy and cheesy with plenty of Parmesan flavor.
- Filling and satisfying thanks to chicken and pasta.
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing comfort food.
- Ready in just 30 minutes for weeknight convenience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Tortellini
Prepare tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6–7 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
4. Add Cheese and Seasoning
Reduce heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Combine and Serve
Add cooked chicken and tortellini to the skillet. Toss everything together until coated in the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
- Add a simple green salad for balance.
- Pair with roasted broccoli or asparagus for extra veggies.
Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
- Use fresh tortellini for quicker cooking and better texture.
- Swap chicken for shrimp or Italian sausage for variety.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
- Lighten it up by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze: Best enjoyed fresh—cream-based sauces can separate when frozen.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is the kind of pasta dish that turns an ordinary night into something special. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat for both family dinners and casual entertaining.
