Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a creamy and rich Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a velvety Alfredo sauce. This comforting and satisfying meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its rich, buttery sauce and tender pasta, Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is sure to become a family favorite. By adding some extra ingredients, you can create different variations of this recipe, such as adding sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist or spinach for a healthier option.
Ingredients:
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 1 package (9 ounces) cheese-filled tortellini
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic and butter. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the Alfredo sauce.
7. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss with the chicken and Alfredo sauce until well combined.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 27-30 minutes
Variations:
* Add roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, to the skillet with the garlic for added texture and flavor.
* Use different types of cheese, such as ricotta or mozzarella, for a unique flavor profile.
* Add some heat by sprinkling red pepper flakes over the dish.
* Use low-fat cream or Greek yogurt to reduce the calories and fat content of the sauce.
* Add some Mediterranean flair by stirring in some chopped kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes.
* Make it a healthier option by using whole-wheat pasta and reducing the amount of cheese used.