There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini. It’s like a cozy hug on a chilly evening, with its creamy sauce enveloping tender tortellini and juicy chicken. As the aromatic blend of garlic and herbs wafts through your kitchen, you can almost hear your taste buds cheer in anticipation.
Imagine gathering around the dinner table with family or friends, the laughter echoing as you all dig into this delightful dish. Every bite offers a burst of flavor that brings back memories of cozy nights spent cooking together, where the biggest disagreements were about who got the last piece of tortellini. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delectable dish combines ease of preparation with an unbeatable flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds
- The creamy texture and vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- You can easily adapt ingredients based on what you have at home, making it versatile enough for any occasion
- Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests at gatherings!
Ingredients for Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on your serving needs.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic brings out the best taste.
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Cream Cheese: This is the heart of your sauce—go for full-fat cream cheese for that luscious texture.
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Pasta Tortellini: Opt for cheese-filled tortellini for extra creaminess; fresh or frozen both work great!
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness while adding depth to the sauce.
For Seasoning:
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Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme enhances the overall flavor profile wonderfully.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning staples that elevate every ingredient’s flavor in this dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides (about 5-7 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add your tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about one minute). Next, stir in cream cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce. Toss in dried herbs and season with more salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Mix in Tortellini
Add cooked tortellini to the skillet along with sliced chicken pieces. Gently stir until everything is well coated with that luscious sauce.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer to plates or bowls, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired, and serve warm for maximum comfort!
This Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini dish is not just food; it’s an experience that wraps you in warmth with every single bite! Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken cream cheese tortellini recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, sear the chicken until golden brown to lock in those juicy flavors. While that’s happening, boil your tortellini until al dente. Then, whip up your creamy sauce with cream cheese and seasonings. Combine everything for a deliciously smooth finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp or add spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. You can also experiment with spices like garlic powder or Italian herbs to personalize your chicken cream cheese tortellini to your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh tortellini if possible; it elevates the dish with its texture and flavor
- Don’t rush when searing chicken; a good golden crust improves taste significantly
- Lastly, don’t skip seasoning in the sauce; it’s where all the magic happens!
There was that one time I made this chicken cream cheese tortellini for my friends’ game night, and let’s just say they left with full bellies and happy hearts. The laughter as they fought over seconds was priceless!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini?
To prepare Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini, you’ll need fresh tortellini, chicken breast, cream cheese, garlic, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Additionally, gather some olive oil and seasonings like salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich and creamy dish that is perfect for any dinner table.
How long does it take to make Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini?
Making Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes cooking the chicken, preparing the sauce with cream cheese, and boiling the tortellini. It’s a quick recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Can I use frozen tortellini for Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen tortellini for Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini. Frozen tortellini cooks quickly and is just as tasty as fresh varieties. Simply follow the package instructions for cooking time. This option makes preparation even easier and can save you time on a busy evening.
What can I serve with Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini?
Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish perfectly. You might also consider serving roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for added nutrition. These sides balance out the meal nicely.
Conclusion for Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini :
In summary, Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini is a quick and delicious meal that satisfies cravings while being easy to prepare. With simple ingredients like chicken, cream cheese, and tortellini, it becomes a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a weeknight or serving it at a gathering, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your taste buds will thank you!
Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Chiken Cream Cheese Tortellini is a delightful dish that combines tender tortellini, succulent chicken, and a rich cream cheese sauce for the perfect comfort food. This recipe is easy to prepare and ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The aromatic blend of garlic and herbs fills your kitchen with warmth, making it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Serve it up for family gatherings or intimate dinners, and watch as smiles spread around the table!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cups fresh cheese tortellini
- 1 cup cream cheese (8 oz)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and let rest before slicing.
- Boil salted water in a pot; cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add cream cheese and stir until melted.
- Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring to create a smooth sauce. Add dried herbs and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Toss in cooked tortellini and sliced chicken until well coated with sauce.
- Serve warm, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 290g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Substitute shrimp for chicken or add spinach for extra nutrition. Use fresh tortellini for enhanced texture; frozen works well too. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove, adding milk if needed.