Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that combines tender cheese tortellini with savory chicken and a rich Alfredo sauce. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or anytime I want something indulgent yet easy to make.

Ingredients

1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)

2 tablespoon olive oil or butter

2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (grilled or rotisserie works great)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 ½ cups heavy cream

½ cup chicken broth (or more cream if I want extra richness)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt & black pepper to taste

Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.

Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the chicken and stir to warm through.

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer.

Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Let it simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly.

Add the cooked tortellini and toss to coat evenly.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. From start to finish, it takes around 25 to 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Variations

I sometimes like to mix in sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added veggies and texture. Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy twist, and if I want a little kick, crushed red pepper flakes work wonders. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp or keep it vegetarian by omitting the meat altogether.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Microwaving works too, but I prefer stirring every 30 seconds to keep the sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Yes, frozen tortellini works great. Just cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk with a tablespoon of flour to thicken, but the sauce won’t be as rich or creamy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead, then toss with freshly cooked tortellini when ready to serve for the best texture.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reducing the butter or oil can lighten the dish, though it won’t be quite as rich.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?

Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling vigorously once the cheese is added. Stir frequently and use fresh cream for best results.

Conclusion

Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is one of those dishes I always turn to when I want comfort food that feels a bit special. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini come together in a way that’s both satisfying and simple. Whether I keep it classic or add my favorite extras, it never fails to please at the dinner table.

Recipe:

Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a creamy, comforting pasta dish combining tender cheese tortellini with savory chicken and a rich Alfredo sauce, perfect for a quick and indulgent meal.

Instructions

Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the chicken and stir to warm through.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Let it simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the cooked tortellini and toss to coat evenly.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese.