Save A comforting, creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, pillowy cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach in a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce.
This cozy chicken tortellini recipe has become a family favorite for its rich flavors and quick preparation time.
Ingredients
- Pasta & Protein: 500 g (1 lb) cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated), 2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 300 g (10 oz)) diced
- Vegetables: 120 g (4 cups) fresh baby spinach, 1 small yellow onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced
- Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 tbsp olive oil, 250 ml (1 cup) heavy cream, 120 ml (1/2 cup) milk, 60 g (2/3 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional), Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Garnish: Extra grated Parmesan for serving, Fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package directions until al denté. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- Meanwhile, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5 6 minutes until cooked through and golden. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining butter, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 2 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the heavy cream and milk. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
- Step 5:
- Add the cooked tortellini, chicken, and spinach to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for 1 2 minutes, until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
- Step 6:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
Save Sharing this meal always brings smiles and warm memories around our dinner table.
Required Tools
Large pot, Large skillet, Cutting board and knife, Wooden spoon or spatula, Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains Milk (cheese, cream, butter), Wheat (tortellini unless gluten free variety used), Egg (in tortellini). May contain tree nuts if pesto tortellini is used. Always check labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories ~590, Total Fat 28 g, Carbohydrates 49 g, Protein 34 g per serving
Save This creamy chicken and spinach tortellini is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special gathering with loved ones.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen tortellini can be cooked following package instructions and works well in this dish.
- → What can I substitute for fresh spinach?
Kale or Swiss chard can replace spinach; just add slightly earlier to allow wilting.
- → Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese?
Parmesan provides a nutty, savory depth, but Romano or Asiago cheese can be good alternatives.
- → How do I make the sauce creamier?
Slowly simmer the cream and cheese mixture while stirring to achieve a smooth, thick texture.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
It's best served fresh, but leftovers keep well refrigerated for 1-2 days and reheat gently.