If you’ve been searching for a soul-satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than this Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe. It’s an exquisite blend of tender chicken, luscious creamy sauce, vibrant spinach, and cheesy tortellini that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weekday meals or special occasions when you want to impress without stress. Every bite melts with comfort and rich flavors that you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this delightful Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe, you’ll need straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the silky heavy cream and sharp Parmesan to the fresh garlic and vibrant spinach, everything contributes to the irresistible taste, texture, and color of the dish.
- 2 breasts Chicken (or tenderloins): offers juicy protein and a tender texture that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Salt (to taste): essential to enhance all the flavors and keep the balance just right.
- Black Pepper (to taste): adds a subtle kick to elevate the overall depth.
- 2 tbsp Butter: lends rich flavor and helps build the base for the sauce.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil: perfect for searing the chicken and infusing a mild fruitiness.
- 12 oz Cheese Tortellini (fresh or frozen works well!): the star pasta that brings comforting cheesy pockets to every forkful.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: creates the luscious, velvety sauce that makes this dish so indulgent.
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: the secret to that nutty, savory punch in the sauce.
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced): for aromatic warmth and that deeply satisfying garlic flavor.
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning: a fragrant blend that ties all the elements together with herbs like oregano and basil.
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach (or kale as alternative): adds freshness, vibrant color, and a nutritious green boost.
How to Make Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by gently seasoning the chicken breasts or tenderloins with salt and black pepper. This simple step is key for building flavor right from the start. When you cook the chicken, it’ll develop a lovely golden crust that locks in juices, ensuring every bite is tender and succulent.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted and shimmering, add the chicken to the pan. Cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken and set aside to rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Add Italian Seasoning
In the same pan, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the buttery olive oil left behind. Sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute. This step infuses the base with those classic Italian herb and garlic notes that define the recipe’s profile.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly to deglaze the pan and blend all those beautiful browned bits from the chicken. Let the cream slightly thicken, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. This sauce thickens quickly and becomes incredibly velvety, coating every ingredient with rich flavor.
Step 5: Cook the Tortellini
While the sauce is gently simmering, cook your cheese tortellini in boiling salted water according to package instructions (usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh or frozen). Drain the pasta and add it right into the creamy sauce, stirring well so every cheesy pocket gets enveloped with sauce.
Step 6: Add Spinach and Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and nestle in the fresh spinach leaves. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and the chicken heats through, creating a harmonious medley of textures and flavors. Now your Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe is ready for plating!
How to Serve Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Top your dish with extra grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness. A little cracked black pepper or a few red pepper flakes can add just the right hint of spice if you like a touch of heat.
Side Dishes
This creamy tortellini pairs splendidly with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness, or some garlic bread for sopping up every last drop of that luscious sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts also complement the flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party vibe, serve the tortellini in shallow bowls with a swirl of extra Parmesan cream sauce on top, garnished with microgreens or edible flowers. Alternatively, portion the dish into mason jars for a charming, rustic presentation perfect for casual gatherings or picnics.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce will thicken as it cools, so you may want to add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to bring back that smooth texture.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, keep in mind that the texture of the cream sauce and spinach can change slightly. If you do freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a splash of cream, milk, or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, warm in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Simply shred it and add it in Step 6 when combining with spinach and sauce for a quicker prep without losing flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken for mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or even roasted butternut squash. You might want to add extra seasoning to boost the umami flavors in place of the meat.
What type of Parmesan cheese works best?
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano delivers the best flavor and melting quality for this recipe. Avoid pre-grated powders which don’t melt as smoothly and lack the fresh, nutty punch.
Can I use frozen spinach?
You can, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding so the sauce doesn’t become watery. Fresh spinach is recommended for the best texture and color.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk with a flour slurry to thicken. The sauce won’t be as rich but will still be creamy and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There is truly nothing like the comforting luxury of this Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe. It’s a dish that feels special but is so easy to make, perfect for busy nights or when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones. Go ahead and give it a try — I promise it will soon become one of your all-time favorites!
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Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Indulgent Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts and cheesy tortellini are simmered in a luscious garlic parmesan cream sauce, complemented by fresh spinach and aromatic Italian seasoning. Ready in just 30 minutes, this meal combines rich creaminess and wholesome ingredients for a hearty Italian-inspired delight.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 breasts Chicken (or tenderloins)
Seasonings
- Salt (to taste)
- Black Pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
Dairy & Fats
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Pasta & Vegetables
- 12 oz Cheese Tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach (or kale as alternative)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Cook the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook the Tortellini: Add the cheese tortellini directly to the skillet with the garlic. Pour in about 1 cup of water (or as needed) to help cook the tortellini and prevent sticking. Cover and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until tortellini is tender.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese with the tortellini. Allow the sauce to simmer gently, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Combine and Serve: Slice the cooked chicken breasts and return them to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy tortellini and spinach mixture. Warm through for another minute, then serve immediately for a rich and comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute kale orSwiss chard for spinach if preferred.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Fresh tortellini cooks faster than frozen; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic for a spicy kick.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
