Chicken Tortellini Alfredo
Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken, soft tortellini, and a rich Alfredo sauce. The dish is a comforting favorite, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With its creamy consistency and satisfying ingredients, it's ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless breasts Chicken Breast Cooked and shredded or diced; can substitute with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 package (about 9 oz) Tortellini Use fresh or frozen tortellini, preferably cheese or chicken-filled for added
- 1 cup Heavy Cream Freshly ground pepper adds spice to the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated parmesan for the best taste; can use pre-grated if in a pinch.
- 2 tbsp Butter Adds richness to the sauce. Unsalted butter is recommended for flavor control.
- 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic enhances flavor; can substitute with garlic powder if necessary.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil Used to sauté garlic and cook chicken. Can be replaced with butter for a richer flavor.
- ½ tsp Salt Season to taste; may need more based on the saltiness of the Parmesan cheese.
- ¼ tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground pepper adds spice to the creamy sauce.
- 1 tbsp Parsley Optional garnish for color and freshness. Can be substituted with basil.
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken and Tortellini:In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through. Remove the chicken, let it rest, and then shred or dice it. Meanwhile, cook the tortellini according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Once simmering, stir in 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
- Combine and Serve:Add the cooked tortellini and shredded chicken into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Stir to combine, ensuring the tortellini and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving for an extra burst of color and flavor.