Description
This creamy Chicken Alfredo Tortellini is a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken pieces, cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich Parmesan Alfredo sauce. Enhanced with garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh parsley, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound cheese tortellini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup frozen peas or broccoli florets, thawed
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the Sauce: Add the Italian seasoning and any additional salt and pepper if necessary. Stir well.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the tortellini and butter. If using, toss in the peas or broccoli. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are fully coated in the sauce.
- Simmer for Flavor: Let the mixture simmer for another 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Finish with Parsley: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
- Serve: Serve warm, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Adding vegetables like peas or broccoli adds color and nutrition but is optional.
- Be careful not to overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
