If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you will absolutely adore this Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe. It’s everything you want in comfort food: tender, juicy chicken married with pillowy cheese tortellini, all smothered in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce with fresh spinach adding a vibrant pop of color and a whisper of earthiness. This recipe is wonderfully straightforward to make but delivers a depth of flavor that feels truly special, perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress friends with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating magic in your kitchen. Each one in this dish plays a pivotal role — from the succulent chicken that brings hearty protein, to the fresh spinach that brightens both flavor and nutrition, and the creamy Parmesan sauce that wraps everything in indulgence.
- 2 pieces Chicken Breasts or Tenderloins: Choose fresh chicken for juicy, tender bites; turkey or tofu are excellent lighter alternatives.
- 12 ounces Cheese Tortellini: Fresh tortellini cooks quicker and offers a soft, chewy texture that complements the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: This creates the luxurious base of the sauce; half-and-half works if you prefer something lighter.
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor and thickens the sauce; Pecorino Romano is a nice substitute for a tangier twist.
- 2 tablespoons Butter: Provides richness and a silky finish, though olive oil can be used if you need a dairy-free version.
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with its signature, aromatic warmth; garlic powder can be a convenient stand-in.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Helps sauté the chicken and garlic evenly, contributing subtle fruity notes.
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs that seasons the chicken beautifully; dried oregano or basil can be swapped in.
- 5 ounces Fresh Spinach: Brightens the dish with freshness and a mild, slightly sweet flavor; kale or Swiss chard are tasty alternatives.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential to bring all flavors into harmonious balance.
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds just the right kick and depth to season the dish perfectly.
How to Make Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken dry — this step is crucial for an even, golden sear. Season it generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to layer in flavor. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and melt butter alongside olive oil. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it develops a beautiful golden crust. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and keep it warm while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Cheese Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and add the cheese tortellini. Fresh tortellini cooks quickly, so aim for about 3-5 minutes until al dente — tender with a slight bite. Be sure to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy liquid will come in handy to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce
In the now-empty skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté just until it becomes fragrant, careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently, allowing the mixture to warm through. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until it melts completely and thickens to a velvety consistency — about 3-4 minutes. This sauce is where the indulgence truly shines.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Tortellini, and Spinach
Slice the seared chicken into bite-sized pieces and return them to the skillet. Add the drained tortellini and fresh spinach, tossing everything together gently to coat with the creamy sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes; the spinach will wilt and meld beautifully with the sauce and pasta.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve
Before serving, taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if necessary. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and freshly cracked pepper on top will elevate it even further. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting richness of this Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe.
How to Serve Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can take your plate from lovely to memorable. Consider adding fresh chopped parsley or basil leaves for a burst of color and subtle freshness. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a few shavings of Parmesan can add a glossy, flavorful finish that guests will admire.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully filling on its own, but if you want to expand the meal, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the creamy richness perfectly. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are also fantastic for scooping up every last bit of that irresistible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming dinner party touch, serve the Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe in individual shallow bowls, topped with freshly cracked black pepper and extra Parmesan. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle crunch and warmth that surprises the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy chicken tortellini is just as delightful for lunch the next day. Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken upon chilling, but don’t worry — a splash of milk or cream when reheating will bring it back to silky perfection.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead or save leftovers for longer, this dish freezes well. Use a freezer-safe container, leaving some room at the top for expansion. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high power to preserve the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese with this recipe?
Absolutely! While Parmesan is traditional and gives a nice sharpness, you can experiment with Pecorino Romano for a saltier punch or even try a milder Asiago for a different but delicious flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap out the chicken for extra cheese tortellini and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or roasted bell peppers to keep it satisfying, or use a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.
What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want a lighter version?
Half-and-half or even whole milk can be used in place of heavy cream to reduce calories and fat. Just keep in mind the sauce might be a bit less thick and creamy, so you may want to simmer it a bit longer to help it thicken.
How do I prevent the spinach from overpowering the dish?
Fresh spinach has a mild flavor, but to keep it balanced, add it towards the end of cooking and use just the right amount. You can also substitute with milder greens like baby kale or Swiss chard if you want subtler taste and texture.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe in advance?
You can certainly cook the chicken and boil the tortellini ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge for up to a day. Then assemble and heat everything together just before serving to maintain the freshest flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe that feels both comforting and luxurious. I hope you give it a try soon and make it a cherished favorite in your home—once you taste how effortlessly the flavors come together, it might just become your go-to dinner for busy nights or whenever you want a delicious, satisfying meal that feels like a little celebration.
Print
Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This indulgent creamy chicken tortellini recipe combines tender seared chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and fresh spinach in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a comforting yet elegant dish perfect for a family dinner or a weeknight treat.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 pieces Chicken Breasts or Tenderloins
Pasta
- 12 ounces Cheese Tortellini (fresh or frozen)
Dairy
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 2 tablespoons Butter
Vegetables & Flavorings
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 5 ounces Fresh Spinach
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
- Season and Sear Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts or tenderloins dry with a paper towel, then season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add butter and olive oil until melted and hot. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm.
- Cook Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, typically 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining the tortellini.
- Prepare Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat to medium and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Slice the seared chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the skillet with the sauce. Add the cooked and drained tortellini along with the fresh spinach. Toss gently to combine all ingredients. Cook together for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
- Season and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the tortellini warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful meal!
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute chicken with turkey or tofu, heavy cream with half-and-half, and butter with olive oil.
- Fresh tortellini cooks faster than frozen, so keep an eye to avoid overcooking.
- Use Pecorino Romano cheese as an alternative to Parmesan for a sharper flavor.
- Reserve pasta water when draining tortellini to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Spinach can be swapped out for kale or Swiss chard depending on preference.
