After a long day juggling work and family responsibilities, I often find myself hunting for a dinner that’s both quick to prepare and heartwarming enough to bring everyone to the table. Enter my Creamy Chicken Tortellini in a Tomato Cream Sauce, a delightful one-pot wonder that is as simple as it is delicious. The tender slices of chicken mingle with cheesy tortellini, enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce that transforms ordinary ingredients into a comforting feast.
Imagine the aroma of garlic and Parmesan filling your kitchen, instantly making it feel like home. This dish not only satisfies cravings but also impresses both the little ones and adults alike. Plus, the whole thing is prepped and cooked in a single skillet—clean-up is a breeze, leaving you more time to relax after dinner. Whether you choose to savor it as is or add a little heat with crushed red pepper, it’s sure to become a staple in your weeknight meal lineup. Let’s dive into this easy, creamy comfort that’s just waiting for you to try!
Why is Creamy Chicken Tortellini a Must-Try?
Ease of Preparation: This one-pan dish is perfect for busy evenings, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal without the fuss.
Rich and Creamy: Velvety tomato cream sauce, complemented by tender chicken and cheesy tortellini, creates an indulgent flavor experience.
Universal Appeal: Kids and adults alike will rave about this comforting dish, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize by swapping proteins or adding heat with red pepper flakes—this dish adapts to your taste!
Quick Cleanup: Cooking everything in one skillet means less time scrubbing pots and more time enjoying your meal.
Creamy Chicken Tortellini Ingredients
• Where comfort meets flavor!
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Thinly sliced for quick cooking and juicy bites.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend that infuses the chicken with aromatic flavors.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the savory essence of the dish.
• Onion Powder – Adds depth and sweetness to the seasoning.
• Salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors of all ingredients.
For the Sauce
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Ideal for searing the chicken, adding a fruity note.
• Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich base for the creamy sauce.
• White Onion – Sautéed for a sweet, mellow flavor; can be swapped for yellow onion.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Fresh and juicy, they add a delightful pop of flavor.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Intensifies tomato flavor and provides a chewy texture.
• Tomato Sauce – The cornerstone of the creamy sauce, no substitutions needed.
• Heavy Cream – Delivers that luxurious, creamy texture to the dish.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – Melts beautifully and enhances the cheesy essence; substitute with Pecorino Romano if needed.
• Fresh Basil – Offers a bright, refreshing finish; parsley can be used if in a pinch.
For the Pasta
• Cheese Tortellini – The star of the show, use fresh or refrigerated for the best results.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortellini
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Season and Sear Chicken: Rub the chicken slices with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter and sauté the chopped white onion for 1-2 minutes until softened. Add cherry tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 3-5 minutes while gently pressing some tomatoes to release their juicy goodness.
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Combine Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and bubble.
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Cook Tortellini: Bring the cheese-filled joy to the skillet by adding in the cheese tortellini. Toss the pasta lovingly to ensure it’s well coated in the creamy sauce; cook for 3-4 minutes until the tortellini is heated through and tender.
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Finish Dish: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the luscious sauce over it. Let everything warm together for an additional 3-5 minutes. Just before serving, stir in fresh basil for a vibrant touch.
Optional: Top with extra Parmesan cheese for an even cheesier finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Creamy Chicken Tortellini Variations
Looking to add a personal touch to your creamy chicken tortellini? Let your creativity shine with these delightful adjustments!
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Shrimp: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. The shrimp cooks quickly and adds a delightful sweetness.
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Vegetarian: Use tofu or your favorite plant-based protein instead of chicken. Marinate the tofu for added flavor, making it a hearty meat-free meal.
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Different Tortellini: Swap cheese tortellini for spinach or mushroom varieties. This twist introduces new flavors and colors, keeping dinner exciting!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for added depth. Fresh herbs can brighten the dish, complementing the richness of the sauce.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. This will elevate the dish with a zesty heat that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Cream Alternatives: For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. It maintains creaminess while adding a tangy flavor.
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Sun-Dried Tomato Boost: Amp up the sun-dried tomatoes for a more pronounced flavor. Their concentrated sweetness can elevate the overall taste profile of the dish.
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Cheese Blend: Combine Parmesan with mozzarella or cheddar for an irresistible gooey texture. A blend of cheeses makes each bite extra cheesy and fulfilling.
Expert Tips for Creamy Chicken Tortellini
Sear for Flavor: Make sure to sear the chicken in a single layer. This helps develop a beautiful golden crust, enhancing the overall flavor of the creamy chicken tortellini.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. They make a significant difference in taste and texture, elevating your dish to a whole new level.
Adjusting Thickness: If your creamy sauce turns out too thick during reheating, simply add a splash of cream or water to reach your desired consistency.
Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing chicken. It’s key for even browning—batch cook if necessary for the best results.
Add a Kick: For those who love a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes while preparing the sauce. It gives your creamy chicken tortellini a delightful twist!
Storage Tips for Creamy Chicken Tortellini
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the dish’s creamy texture and rich flavor.
Freezer: If you need to freeze it, place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened too much, stir in a splash of cream or water for a smoother consistency.
Airtight Guidance: Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn, ensuring your creamy chicken tortellini tastes fresh when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Tortellini?
Transform your one-pan wonder into a spectacular meal with delightful sides and drinks.
- Garlic Bread: The classic buttery, garlicky loaf is perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce while adding a toasted crunch.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers add a touch of brightness and nutrition, complementing your creamy dish beautifully.
- Steamed Green Beans: Their tender yet crisp texture pairs well, providing a nutritious side that balances the richness of the tortellini.
- Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Merlot will enhance the dish’s flavors, enriching the dining experience with each sip.
- Lemon Sorbet: This light, refreshing dessert can cleanse the palate and provide a pleasant, zesty finish after the creamy meal.
- Parmesan Crisps: These cheesy, crunchy bites make a delightful appetizer that echoes the pasta’s flavors while adding texture to your plate.
Indulge in this delicious meal and enjoy the process of creating memories around the dinner table!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Chicken Tortellini are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate it to maintain freshness and flavor. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce (without the heavy cream) and store it for up to 3 days in the fridge. To finish the dish, simply reheat the sauce and stir in the heavy cream before adding the tortellini, cooking until heated through. This way, you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality meal ready to serve with minimal effort on hectic weeknights! Just remember, for the best taste, wait to add fresh basil until just before serving.
Creamy Chicken Tortellini Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe tomatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting tomatoes, look for those that are firm yet slightly yielding to the touch, with vibrant color and no dark spots. If using cherry tomatoes, they should be plump and glossy for the best flavor.
How should I store leftover Creamy Chicken Tortellini?
Very! After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool slightly before sealing to prevent condensation. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain that creamy texture.
Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Tortellini?
Definitely! To freeze, transfer the cooled tortellini to a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s sealed tightly. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if needed to adjust the consistency.
What if my sauce is too thick after reheating?
Not a problem! If your sauce thickens too much, just add a splash of cream or water while reheating. Start with 1-2 tablespoons and stir well until you reach your desired creamy consistency. It’s an easy fix to bring back that velvety sauce.
Are there any dietary concerns related to this recipe?
Absolutely! While this dish features common ingredients, you may want to watch out for allergies, especially if you’re using dairy products like heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. For a dairy-free version, feel free to substitute with coconut cream and nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply swap the chicken for a protein like tofu or a meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also enhance the dish with more vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, to create a hearty vegetarian meal everyone will love!
Creamy Chicken Tortellini: A Cozy One-Pan Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rub the chicken slices with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter and sauté the chopped white onion for 1-2 minutes until softened. Add cherry tomatoes and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 3-5 minutes while gently pressing some tomatoes to release their juicy goodness.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and bubble.
- Add the cheese tortellini to the skillet, tossing to ensure it's well coated in the creamy sauce; cook for 3-4 minutes until the tortellini is heated through and tender.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the luscious sauce over it. Let everything warm together for an additional 3-5 minutes. Just before serving, stir in fresh basil.