Chicken Tortellini Alfredo Recipe – Creamy

Chicken tortellini alfredo is a truly delicious and incredibly creamy pasta dish, ideal for any night of the week. This comforting meal features cheesy tortellini and tender pieces of chicken, all coated in a luxuriously rich Alfredo sauce. This dish is not only satisfying but also quick to prepare, making it a favorite for busy weeknights and a popular choice in many households. It’s a great way to create a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of your own home, while saving a lot of time in the kitchen. Enjoy a creamy and comforting plate of chicken tortellini alfredo.

Why Make This Recipe

You should definitely make chicken tortellini alfredo because it’s incredibly easy, exceptionally tasty, and utterly satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a creamy, comforting dish that the whole family will love. This dish is also a great way to use leftover rotisserie chicken, saving you valuable time and effort in the kitchen. This makes it a great meal for busy weeknights or for those looking for an easy and reliable way to cook a restaurant quality meal at home. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a kitchen must have.

How to Make Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

Ingredients:

  • 18 to 20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
  • A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (or ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg)
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Directions:

  1. In a large pot of salted water, cook the tortellini according to package directions. Once done, drain the tortellini.
  2. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 20 seconds or until fragrant.
  3. Whisk in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes to reduce and thicken slightly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the softened cream cheese and continue to whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Season the sauce with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  6. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted into the sauce.
  7. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes or until heated through.
  8. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss to coat the tortellini with the sauce and cook for a minute. Remove from heat.
  9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and fresh basil leaves, and serve.

How to Serve Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

Serve your chicken tortellini alfredo hot for the best and most satisfying experience. This creamy dish pairs perfectly with a side of garlic bread, offering a delightful carb-on-carb indulgence, or a fresh salad for a lighter contrast. For added flavor, sprinkle a little extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. This final touch will enhance the richness of the dish and give it a more refined taste. This way your dish will look and taste as if it came straight from a restaurant. These serving suggestions will ensure that you enjoy every single bite of your homemade chicken tortellini alfredo.

How to Store Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

To store leftover chicken tortellini alfredo, place it in an airtight container after it has cooled down. The refrigerated leftovers can be kept in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, ensuring a quick and easy meal later in the week. For longer storage, you can also freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, the microwave is a convenient option. However, if the sauce gets too thick, adding a splash of milk will help restore its creamy texture and consistency. These tips will help you enjoy your chicken tortellini alfredo even days after it was first cooked, making it a great meal to prepare ahead.

Tips to Make Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

  • Use freshly grated cheese for better flavor.
  • Adjust the nutmeg to your taste; a little goes a long way!
  • Don’t overcook the garlic; it should be fragrant, not browned.

Variation

For a healthier twist on chicken tortellini alfredo, consider adding vegetables like fresh spinach or broccoli. These additions will not only boost the nutritional value but also add a delightful texture and flavor to the dish. Feel free to experiment with different proteins as well, such as succulent shrimp or lean ground turkey, to mix things up and create unique flavor profiles. These simple swaps offer endless possibilities, allowing you to customize the dish to your preference. They add a fun and healthy touch to the classic dish, making each serving feel unique. This gives you the possibility to enjoy the recipe in a new way.

FAQs

  1. What type of pasta is best for Alfredo?Fettuccine is the classic pasta for Alfredo, as its wide, flat shape holds the creamy sauce well. However, stuffed pastas like tortellini also work wonderfully for a hearty twist.
  2. Does Panera still have the chicken tortellini Alfredo?Panera Bread occasionally features chicken tortellini Alfredo as part of their seasonal or limited-time menu. Check your local Panera menu for availability.
  3. Is tortellini Alfredo healthy?While delicious, tortellini Alfredo is rich in calories, fat, and carbs due to the creamy sauce and cheese-filled pasta. However, you can make it lighter by using whole wheat tortellini and a reduced-fat Alfredo sauce.
  4. What to serve with tortellini Alfredo?Pair tortellini Alfredo with garlic bread, a fresh Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced and complete meal. A crisp white wine or sparkling water also complements the dish well.

In conclusion, chicken tortellini alfredo is a delightful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture, cheesy tortellini, and tender chicken create a comforting and satisfying meal. The quick and easy preparation makes it a great choice for weeknights, while its customizable nature allows you to add vegetables or different proteins to suit your taste. Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or experimenting with various additions, this recipe is a reliable crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the delicious simplicity and creamy perfection of homemade chicken tortellini alfredo.

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