Creamy Chicken Tortellini Alfredo for a Quick and Easy Dinner

Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that brings together tender pieces of cooked chicken with soft, cheese-filled tortellini, all tossed in a smooth homemade Alfredo sauce. It’s a simple yet hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without too much effort.

With a handful of everyday ingredients like butter, cream, parmesan, and a splash of broth for depth, this dish comes together quickly and easily. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or picking up some cooked chicken on the way home, this recipe is designed to fit into your schedule without skimping on flavor.

If you’re in the mood for a dinner that feels homemade and satisfying, this Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is the perfect choice.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

This recipe is all about simple ingredients that work together to create a creamy, comforting dish. You probably have most of them at home or can grab them easily from your local store. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Refrigerated cheese tortellini, soft pasta pockets filled with cheese that cook quickly and hold the sauce beautifully.
• Butter, for creating the rich base of the Alfredo sauce.
• All-purpose flour, used to gently thicken the sauce for a silky texture.
• Chicken broth, adding depth of flavor and balancing out the richness of the cream.
• Lemon juice, just a splash to brighten the flavors and keep the sauce lively.
• Heavy cream, the key to a velvety smooth Alfredo sauce.
• Garlic powder, giving a gentle hint of garlic that blends easily into the sauce.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese, which melts smoothly and brings a bold, cheesy flavor.
• Cooked shredded chicken, perfect for adding protein and heartiness whether it’s leftovers or store-bought.
• Salt and pepper, for seasoning to taste.

If you’re looking for more family-friendly pasta dishes that come together with simple ingredients, check out this creamy One Pot Casarecce Pasta or the hearty Baked Rigatoni.

Step-by-Step Instructions for a Creamy Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

This recipe comes together in just a few easy steps, making it perfect for those busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast. Follow these simple directions to make a creamy, satisfying meal.

1. Cook the tortellini.
   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2. Make the roux.
   While the tortellini is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about one minute. This helps cook out the raw flour taste and creates a smooth base for your sauce.
3. Add the liquids.
   Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, whisking until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Then slowly add the heavy cream while continuing to whisk. Stir in the garlic powder and let the sauce cook for a couple of minutes until it starts to thicken.

1. Melt in the parmesan.
   Reduce the heat slightly and add the freshly grated parmesan cheese. Stir until it melts completely into the sauce, making it creamy and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more broth or cream to loosen it up.
2. Combine everything.
   Add the cooked shredded chicken and the drained tortellini to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce. Let it warm through for a couple of minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

1. Serve and enjoy.
   Serve the creamy chicken tortellini Alfredo hot. For a complete meal, you can pair it with a fresh salad or some homemade bread.

If you love creamy pasta dishes, you might also enjoy this flavorful Cheesecake Factory Tomato Basil Pasta or a fresh, vibrant Roast Tomato Pasta Sauce.

Pro Tips to Make the Creamiest Alfredo Sauce at Home

A creamy Alfredo sauce may seem simple, but a few little tricks can make the difference between good and unforgettable. Here are my go-to tips for perfect results every time.

• Use freshly grated parmesan.
  Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best texture and flavor, always grate your parmesan fresh before adding it to the sauce.
• Don’t rush the sauce.
  Let the cream simmer gently. Cooking it too quickly or over high heat can cause it to separate or become grainy. Stir often and be patient as the sauce thickens naturally.
• Add liquids slowly.
  When mixing in the broth and cream, pour them in a little at a time while whisking. This helps you control the sauce’s thickness and keeps it smooth and lump-free.
• Balance the flavors.
  The touch of lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the cream and cheese. Don’t skip it. If you prefer, adjust the amount to suit your taste.
• Warm the chicken before adding.
  If you’re using cold, leftover chicken, warm it slightly before adding it to the sauce. This way, it blends better and heats through without making the sauce cool down too much.

For more quick and flavor-packed pasta ideas, take a look at this colorful Taco Pasta Salad or a crowd-pleaser like Deviled Egg Pasta Salad. Both are easy options that bring big flavor with minimal effort.

Flavor Variations and Ingredient Swaps

One of the best things about this chicken tortellini Alfredo is how easy it is to tweak based on what you have at home or the flavors you love most. Here are some simple ways to make this dish your own.

• Add vegetables for extra color and nutrition.
  A handful of fresh spinach stirred in at the end adds a pop of green and blends beautifully with the creamy sauce. You can also toss in cooked peas, steamed broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms for more texture and flavor.
• Use different cheeses.
  While parmesan gives that classic Alfredo taste, you can mix in a little mozzarella or fontina for a slightly different creamy profile. Just be sure the cheese melts smoothly.
• Swap the protein.
  If you want to change things up, cooked turkey or even grilled chicken breast works well here. The sauce is forgiving and complements a variety of mild proteins.
• Adjust the sauce consistency.
  If you prefer a thinner sauce, simply add a bit more broth or cream. For a thicker result, let it simmer a bit longer before combining with the pasta and chicken.
• Make it a one-pan dish.
  After tossing everything together, you can sprinkle a little extra cheese on top and let it bake for a few minutes in the oven until bubbly and golden.

If you enjoy trying out creative pasta ideas, you might like this vibrant Summer Tagliolini Pasta Recipe or a cozy dish like Polish Strawberry Pasta. Both bring a unique twist to your table with simple ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

Nutrition Information

Chicken tortellini Alfredo is a hearty dish, rich in flavor and satisfying enough for a full meal. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving based on this recipe:

• Calories: around 550 to 600
• Protein: 30 to 35 grams, depending on the amount of chicken used
• Fat: 35 to 40 grams, mostly from the cream, butter, and cheese
• Carbohydrates: 35 to 40 grams, mainly from the tortellini
• Fiber: 2 to 3 grams
• Sodium: varies based on the broth and cheese, typically moderate to high

Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates and can change based on the specific brands of ingredients you use and any variations you make. If you’re watching your intake, you can lighten the dish slightly by reducing the cheese or using a bit less cream, though this may affect the sauce’s richness.

If you enjoy balancing hearty meals with lighter options, you might also want to try fresh ideas like the Deviled Egg Pasta Salad or a tangy Taco Pasta Salad.

Wrapping It Up — Ready to Enjoy Your Creamy Chicken Tortellini?

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of creamy chicken tortellini Alfredo. It’s the kind of dish that turns a regular evening into a cozy family dinner, with flavors that feel both rich and familiar. Whether you’re making it for a quick weekday meal or as a warm dish to share with friends, it always delivers on taste and satisfaction.

If you’re in the mood to explore more pasta dishes that come together just as easily, why not check out some of these favorites? The hearty Baked Rigatoni is perfect for a family gathering, or you can keep things light with a refreshing Roast Tomato Pasta Sauce. And for a bit of a twist, the vibrant Rasta Pasta or the fresh flavors of this Summer Tagliolini Pasta might just be your next kitchen favorite.

No matter which one you choose, these recipes bring flavor and simplicity to your table. And if you give this chicken tortellini Alfredo a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you.

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Creamy Chicken Tortellini Alfredo for a Quick and Easy Dinner

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This irresistibly creamy garlic parmesan chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Ready in 30 minutes with juicy chicken and a velvety sauce.

• Author: Emily Parker
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

2 boneless chicken breasts

3 tbsp butter

4 garlic cloves, minced

1½ cups heavy cream

1 cup freshly grated parmesan

8 oz penne or fettuccine

Salt & pepper to taste

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

• 1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
• 2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• 3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice.
• 4. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
• 5. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
• 6. Stir in parmesan cheese and cook until melted and thickened.
• 7. Return chicken to skillet and add cooked pasta. Toss to coat.
• 8. Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan. Serve hot.

Notes

• Use fresh parmesan for best results.
• Add spinach or mushrooms for variation.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 135mg

Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutrition information provided in the Recipe card is an estimate only.For the most accurate results, please calculate the values yourself using your preferred nutrition calculator.