Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a classic Italian-American dish that brings together the comforting flavors of tender, grilled chicken, delicate cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. This delightful combination creates a truly satisfying and indulgent meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution or an impressive dish to serve guests, this recipe for Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is both easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful.
Inspired by beloved restaurant favorites like Olive Garden, this homemade Chicken Tortellini Alfredo recipe allows you to recreate that luxurious dining experience right in your own kitchen. Beyond its delicious taste, this dish is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables, or experiment with different proteins like succulent shrimp or earthy mushrooms for a delightful vegetarian alternative. This flexibility makes it a fantastic staple for any home cook.
If you’re a devoted fan of chicken and pasta, you’ll also adore these other creamy and satisfying recipes. Don’t miss out on exploring my Creamy Tortellini Pasta, Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta, Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta, or my delightful Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli Pasta.
Why You’ll Adore This Chicken Tortellini Alfredo Recipe
There are countless reasons why this Chicken Tortellini Alfredo will quickly become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection. It offers a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and customizable flavor that appeals to everyone.
- Unparalleled Versatility: One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its adaptability. You’re not limited to tortellini; feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even ravioli. The protein is also easily interchangeable – swap chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even plant-based options like tofu or mushrooms to suit dietary preferences or simply to try something new. Load it up with extra vegetables like tender asparagus, crisp broccoli florets, vibrant spinach, or earthy sautéed mushrooms to boost its nutritional value and make it even more filling and flavorful.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: At its heart, this dish is pure comfort. The rich, velvety Alfredo sauce coats every piece of pasta and chicken, while the soft, cheese-filled tortellini provides a delightful burst of flavor and texture. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth and satisfies the soul, making it ideal for a cozy night in or a hearty family dinner.
- Incredibly Easy and Quick to Make: Despite its gourmet taste, this Chicken Tortellini Alfredo can be on your table in under 30 minutes. This makes it an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Simple steps and readily available ingredients mean less stress and more enjoyment.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Why dine out when you can enjoy a dish that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant? This recipe captures the essence of classic Alfredo, delivering that creamy, cheesy goodness you love from places like Olive Garden, but with the freshness and satisfaction of a home-cooked meal.
- Guaranteed Family Favorite: This combination of pasta, chicken, and creamy sauce is universally loved. It’s a dish that pleases even the pickiest eaters and is sure to earn rave reviews from your family and friends, making it a go-to for gatherings and everyday meals alike.
Essential Ingredients for Your Creamy Tortellini Alfredo
Crafting the perfect Chicken Tortellini Alfredo begins with selecting high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the rich, layered flavors of this beloved dish.
- Chicken Breast: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean, tender pieces. For a richer flavor and slightly more forgiving cooking, boneless chicken thighs can be an excellent alternative. Slice or dice them after grilling for easy incorporation into the pasta.
- Italian Seasonings: This aromatic blend typically features basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. It’s the secret to infusing your chicken with a classic, savory Italian essence, forming a foundational flavor layer for the entire dish.
- Garlic Powder: A versatile and potent seasoning that enhances the savory profile of the chicken without the sharpness of fresh garlic during grilling.
- Salt and Ground Black Pepper: These fundamental seasonings are crucial for balancing and enhancing all the flavors in both the chicken and the Alfredo sauce. Always adjust to your personal taste preference throughout the cooking process.
- Olive Oil: Used for grilling the chicken, olive oil adds a subtle fruity richness and helps achieve a beautiful sear while preventing sticking.
- Unsalted Butter: The cornerstone of any great Alfredo sauce, butter provides luxurious richness and a profound depth of flavor. Using unsalted butter gives you better control over the overall saltiness of the dish.
- Fresh Minced Garlic: Essential for that authentic, aromatic Italian flavor in the Alfredo sauce. Freshly minced garlic yields a much more robust and fragrant taste compared to jarred alternatives.
- Heavy Cream (Whipping Cream): The star of the Alfredo sauce, heavy cream is responsible for its incredibly luxurious, velvety, and smooth texture. Don’t skimp on this for the best results.
- Milk (Whole Milk Recommended): While whole milk is ideal for added creaminess, you can use reduced-fat milk if you’re looking for a slightly lighter sauce. It helps to thin the heavy cream slightly without sacrificing too much richness.
- Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated): This hard, salty Italian cheese provides a nutty, sharp, and intensely savory flavor that is indispensable for authentic Alfredo. Always use freshly grated Parmesan for superior melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
- Asiago Cheese (Freshly Grated): Adding Asiago cheese introduces another layer of complexity to the sauce. It offers a distinct nutty and slightly tangy taste that beautifully complements the Parmesan, elevating the overall cheese profile.
- Cheese Tortellini: The heart of the pasta component! These delicate, ring-shaped pasta pockets filled with a blend of cheeses (often ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella) add incredible flavor and texture. Cook them according to package instructions, ideally to an al dente consistency.
- Red Chili Flakes (Optional): For those who appreciate a hint of warmth and a subtle kick, red chili flakes can be stirred into the Alfredo sauce. They add a delightful counterpoint to the creamy richness.
- Fresh Parsley (Chopped): A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a vibrant color, a refreshing herbaceous note, and a burst of freshness that brightens the entire dish.
- Parmesan Shaves: Thin shavings of Parmesan cheese not only add an elegant visual appeal but also provide an extra layer of cheesy goodness and texture as a garnish.
Ingredient Substitutions and Creative Variations
One of the beauties of Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is how easily it can be adapted to your preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative with these delicious variations:
- Protein Power-Ups: Instead of chicken, consider sautéing succulent shrimp, tender crab, luxurious lobster, or even plant-based tofu for a different protein option. Cooked Italian sausage or thinly sliced steak could also add a robust flavor.
- Pasta Alternatives: If tortellini isn’t available, or you simply prefer another shape, ravioli is a fantastic substitute, offering a similar cheesy filling. Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni are also excellent choices for coating with the rich Alfredo sauce.
- Alfredo Sauce Shortcuts: While homemade Alfredo sauce is truly superior, a good quality store-bought Alfredo sauce can be used to save time on particularly busy evenings. Look for brands with minimal additives for the best flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by incorporating a variety of vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli florets, fresh spinach (stirred in until wilted), roasted asparagus, or even sun-dried tomatoes can add color, texture, and vitamins.
- Lighter Cream Options: For a slightly lighter version of the sauce, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, or a combination of milk and light cream. Keep in mind this might result in a slightly less thick and rich sauce, but it will still be delicious.
- Spice it Up: If you love heat, increase the amount of red chili flakes in the sauce, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra fiery kick.
- Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with different fresh herbs. Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano can be added along with the parsley for a more complex aromatic profile.
How To Make Chicken Tortellini Alfredo: A Detailed Guide
Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality Chicken Tortellini Alfredo that will impress everyone at your table.
Step 1: Prepare and Grill the Chicken
- Begin by patting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear.
- Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with Italian seasonings, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure an even coating for maximum flavor.
- Heat a grill pan or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, ensuring it coats the bottom of the pan evenly.
- Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts onto the hot pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and boasts beautiful, appetizing grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- After cooking, remove the chicken breasts from the pan and transfer them to a clean plate. Tent them loosely with foil and allow them to rest for at least 5-10 minutes. Resting the chicken is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and moist meat. Once rested, slice the chicken into desired pieces.
Step 2: Craft the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
- While the chicken rests, prepare your glorious Alfredo sauce. Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add three tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet. Allow the butter to melt completely, but be careful not to brown it.
- Once the butter is melted and slightly foamy, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about one minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant and softened. Avoid browning the garlic, as this can make it bitter.
- Stir in the heavy cream and milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for about 2 minutes to heat through and slightly reduce. Ensure you stir frequently to prevent scorching on the bottom.
- Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and Asiago cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and incorporated, creating a smooth, homogenous sauce.
- Season the sauce with ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper, and if using, ½ teaspoon of red chili flakes for a touch of heat. Continue to cook for a couple more minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce begins to slightly thicken to your desired consistency. Remember, it will thicken further as it cools.
- Once the sauce reaches your preferred thickness, remove the skillet from the heat to prevent overcooking and splitting.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini and Assemble the Dish
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente – tender yet firm to the bite. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy, so keep a close eye on it.
- Once cooked, drain the tortellini thoroughly. Do not rinse the pasta, as this removes the starches that help the sauce adhere.
- Transfer the drained, cooked tortellini to a large casserole dish or an oven-safe serving bowl.
- Pour the warm, prepared Alfredo sauce generously over the cooked tortellini in the casserole dish. Gently toss or stir to ensure every piece of tortellini is beautifully coated in the creamy sauce.
- Arrange the sliced grilled chicken breasts evenly on top of the sauced tortellini, creating an appealing presentation.
Step 4: Broil to Perfection, Garnish, and Serve
- For a delightful golden finish, place the casserole dish in the oven. Set your oven’s broiler to high heat.
- Broil the tortellini for 3-5 minutes, keeping a very close watch. The goal is for the dish to become bubbly, and the top to achieve a light, appetizing golden-brown hue. Be careful, as broilers can quickly burn food.
- Once perfectly browned, carefully remove the casserole dish from the oven.
- Generously garnish the hot Chicken Tortellini Alfredo with thin shavings of fresh Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of vibrant, freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately while hot, perhaps with additional sliced grilled chicken on the side for those who want more, and a crisp side salad or warm garlic bread. Enjoy your magnificent homemade meal!
Expert Tips for a Flawless Chicken Tortellini Alfredo
To ensure your Chicken Tortellini Alfredo turns out perfect every time, keep these crucial tips in mind:
- Cook Tortellini Al Dente: The secret to great pasta is cooking it al dente – meaning “to the tooth.” It should be tender but still have a slight bite. Overcooked tortellini will become mushy and lose its appealing texture in the creamy sauce. Follow package directions closely and taste a piece just before the recommended cooking time is up.
- Season Liberally and Thoughtfully: Don’t underestimate the power of seasoning. Ensure both the chicken and the sauce are seasoned well with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Italian herbs. Taste as you go, especially with the sauce, and adjust to your preference. Proper seasoning makes all the difference in flavor depth.
- Prioritize Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final taste. Use fresh garlic for the sauce, premium heavy cream, and, most importantly, freshly grated Parmesan and Asiago cheeses. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce gritty and prevent smooth melting. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully into a silky sauce.
- Avoid Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly if overcooked. Cook them just until they are done, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfect doneness without drying out the meat.
- Allow the Chicken to Rest: After grilling, always allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it remains incredibly tender and juicy.
- Don’t Overcook the Alfredo Sauce: Once the cheese is melted and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove it from the heat. Continuous boiling or high heat can cause cream-based sauces to separate or become oily. Gently simmer and stir constantly until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Warm Serving Dishes: For the best dining experience, consider warming your serving plates or casserole dish before plating. This helps keep the pasta and sauce warm longer.
Storing and Reheating Your Chicken Tortellini Alfredo
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly save leftovers for another delicious meal. Here’s how to properly store and reheat your Chicken Tortellini Alfredo:
- Storing Leftovers: Allow any leftover Chicken Tortellini Alfredo to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures its freshness and prevents bacterial growth.
- Reheating in the Microwave: For a quick reheat, place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of milk or cream (about 1-2 tablespoons) to help loosen the sauce, as Alfredo tends to thicken when cold. Cover loosely and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Reheating on the Stovetop: The stovetop method is often preferred for maintaining the sauce’s texture. Transfer leftovers to a skillet or pot over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of milk or cream to help revive the sauce. Stir gently and continuously until the dish is heated through and the sauce becomes creamy again. Avoid high heat, which can cause the sauce to separate.
- Reheating in the Oven: If you have a larger quantity, you can reheat it in the oven. Place the dish in an oven-safe casserole dish, add a splash of milk or cream, cover it with foil, and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes if you want a slightly crisper top.
- Freezing Limitations: Cream-based dishes, including Alfredo, generally do not freeze well. The high fat content in the cream can cause the sauce to separate and become grainy or oily upon thawing and reheating. While it won’t be harmful to eat, the texture will be significantly compromised. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh or within a few days from the refrigerator.
Delicious Pairings: What to Serve with Chicken Tortellini Alfredo
Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a hearty and satisfying main course on its own, but a few thoughtfully chosen additions can elevate the meal and create a perfectly balanced dining experience.
- Crusty Garlic Bread: A classic Italian pairing, warm, crusty garlic bread is absolutely essential. It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, ensuring no deliciousness goes to waste.
- Light Green Salad: The richness of Alfredo sauce is beautifully complemented by a fresh, crisp green salad. A simple house salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing counterpoint, adding a burst of freshness and a much-needed crunch.
- Roasted or Steamed Vegetables: To add more nutrients and a lovely texture contrast, serve your tortellini with a side of lightly steamed or roasted vegetables. Asparagus, green beans, broccoli, or even a medley of colorful bell peppers are excellent choices that cook quickly and pair wonderfully with the creamy pasta.
- Elegant Wine Pairing: For adult guests, consider pairing this rich dish with a complementary wine. A crisp, dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can cut through the richness of the Alfredo. Alternatively, a light-bodied red like a Pinot Noir can also be a delightful match.
- A Sweet Finale: Conclude your comforting meal with a delightful dessert. Something light and fruity, or even a rich chocolate treat like this Chocolate Cake with Pears, would make a perfect ending to your Italian feast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should I use fresh or frozen tortellini for this recipe?
You can successfully use either fresh or frozen tortellini for this dish. Both options work well! Simply follow the cooking instructions provided on the tortellini package to ensure it’s cooked perfectly al dente, regardless of whether it’s fresh or frozen.
Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce instead of making it from scratch?
While our homemade Alfredo sauce is incredibly flavorful and surprisingly simple to prepare, you can certainly use a good quality bottled Alfredo sauce if you prefer. This is a great shortcut for those extra busy days, allowing you to get dinner on the table even faster.
Can I make this dish ahead of time for meal prep?
This Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is truly best enjoyed fresh, right after it’s made, to appreciate its creamy texture and rich flavors. However, you can prepare some components in advance. For example, you can grill the chicken and prepare the Alfredo sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, then assemble and bake (or gently reheat on the stovetop) just before serving.
What other types of chicken can I use?
While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are specified, you can certainly use boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. If using bone-in, skin-on chicken, be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly and remove bones and skin before adding to the pasta.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can easily make this dish spicier! Increase the amount of red chili flakes added to the Alfredo sauce, or even stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper during the sauce-making process.
More Irresistible Alfredo Recipes to Try
If you’re captivated by the creamy indulgence of Alfredo, you’ll love exploring these other fantastic recipes from my collection:
- Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo
- Cajun Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells
- Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups
- Creamy Alfredo Chicken Pasta
- Spaghetti Alfredo
Give my Grilled Chicken Tortellini Alfredo recipe a try tonight, and you’ll savor every mouthful of its rich flavors and creamy indulgence. This dish is destined to become a beloved favorite for your family dinners and special weeknight treats alike. Its ease of preparation and satisfying taste make it a truly winning recipe that you’ll return to again and again.
If you try this recipe or any of my other delicious creations, please don’t forget to leave a star rating and a comment in the section below to share your experience. Your feedback is greatly appreciated! Also, make sure to follow Cookin’ With Mima on Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest for all my latest social posts, culinary inspiration, and new recipes.
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Chicken Tortellini Alfredo
By: Mariam Ezzeddine
Chicken Tortellini Alfredo combines tender chicken and cheese-filled tortellini in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. Quick to make and incredibly satisfying, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 30
Total Time: 45
Servings: 4 servings.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasonings
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Tortellini Alfredo
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ cup asiago cheese, grated
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 lb cheese tortelloni
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Parmesan shaves, to garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasonings, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a grill pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has grill marks. Once done, remove the chicken breasts from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add butter. Once the butter is melted, add minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Stir in whipping cream and milk, and let it cook for 2 minutes, allowing the mixture to heat through.
- Add Parmesan cheese, Asiago cheese, salt, red chili flakes, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for a couple more minutes, stirring continuously until the sauce begins to slightly thicken. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Meanwhile, cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain the cooked tortellini and transfer it to a casserole dish.
- Pour the prepared Alfredo sauce over the cooked tortellini in the casserole dish, ensuring the tortellini is evenly coated.
- Arrange the grilled chicken breasts on top of the tortellini and sauce.
- Place the casserole dish in the oven and set the broiler to high. Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and lightly browned on top.
- Once done, remove the casserole dish from the oven and garnish the Tortellini Alfredo with shavings of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
- Serve the Tortellini Alfredo with sliced grilled chicken on the side.
Notes
- Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Ensure the tortellini is cooked al dente for the best texture.
- Season Well: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for maximum flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, cream, and Parmesan will enhance the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until it’s done to keep it tender and juicy. Allow the chicken to rest.
Nutrition
Calories: 961kcal |
Carbohydrates: 54g |
Protein: 63g |
Fat: 54g |
Saturated Fat: 28g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 13g |
Trans Fat: 0.4g |
Cholesterol: 265mg |
Sodium: 1697mg |
Potassium: 795mg |
Fiber: 5g |
Sugar: 7g |
Vitamin A: 1660IU |
Vitamin C: 5mg |
Calcium: 547mg |
Iron: 4mg
Carbohydrates: 54g |
Protein: 63g |
Fat: 54g |
Saturated Fat: 28g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 13g |
Trans Fat: 0.4g |
Cholesterol: 265mg |
Sodium: 1697mg |
Potassium: 795mg |
Fiber: 5g |
Sugar: 7g |
Vitamin A: 1660IU |
Vitamin C: 5mg |
Calcium: 547mg |
Iron: 4mg