Description
Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish combining tender chicken breasts, delicate cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal, this recipe delivers a luscious texture and satisfying flavors that please the whole family.
Ingredients
Units
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Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from the pan and slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook the Tortellini: While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the tortellini, reserving a small amount of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir continually as it heats through, making sure it does not boil. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked tortellini and sliced chicken back into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it. Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley on top before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother melt and better flavor.
- Cook tortellini al dente to maintain texture when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust sauce thickness by adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly but remains juicy and tender.
- Fresh garlic and parsley enhance aroma and appearance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 120mg