Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Tortellini
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Tortellini is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors and cheesy pasta. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also offers a comforting and satisfying meal that your whole family will love. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this dish is sure to impress.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe stands out because it is quick to prepare without sacrificing flavor. You can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in just about 30 minutes! The creamy garlic sauce gives the dish a rich taste while the tortellini adds a delightful texture. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Tortellini
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Directions:
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- While the tortellini cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 4-5 minutes.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked tortellini and toss everything together, making sure the tortellini is coated in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes (if using) before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Tortellini
Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top can enhance the flavor even more!
How to Store Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Tortellini
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce.
Tips to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Tortellini
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas to the dish for extra color and nutrition.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use less cheese.
Variation
You can easily change this recipe by using different types of pasta, such as penne or fettuccine. You might also try adding sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or even grilled shrimp for additional flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure to thaw them fully before cooking. This helps in even cooking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just combine it with the chicken and tortellini before serving.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe by default is not spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes for some heat if you like a little kick!
Now you have everything you need to make this creamy, flavorful dish! Enjoy your time in the kitchen and savor every bite of this wonderful meal.
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Tortellini
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious dish that combines tender chicken with rich flavors and cheesy tortellini, perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- While the tortellini cooks, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 4-5 minutes.
- Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked tortellini and toss everything together, making sure the tortellini is coated in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes (if using) before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: creamy, garlic, parmesan, chicken, tortellini, pasta