Creamy Chicken Tortellini Recipe for Easy Family Dinners

Name: Creamy Chicken Tortellini Recipe for Easy Family Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, diced; 12 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Optional: spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes

Posted on November 6, 2025

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The creamy richness of this chicken tortellini recipe is the stuff weeknight dinner dreams are made of. Picture tender cheese-filled tortellini coated in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce with juicy chicken and hints of Italian seasoning. It’s one of those meals that everyone at the table will rave about—kids included! I’ve made this countless times, and trust me, it’s a keeper. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or something quick and satisfying for a busy evening, this dish checks all the boxes.

I first stumbled upon this recipe during a hectic weekday when I needed something fast but nourishing for dinner. My kids were clamoring for pasta, but I wanted to pack in some protein and veggies without sacrificing flavor. Enter: Creamy Chicken Tortellini. It’s been a family favorite ever since, and I’m so excited to share it with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy families.
Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor—it’s the ultimate cozy dinner.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters love the rich cream sauce and soft tortellini.
Customizable: Add veggies, swap proteins, or make it lighter with low-fat cream. It’s super versatile!
A Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or feeding a group, this dish has universal appeal.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors. The garlic and Italian seasoning bring the cream sauce to life, while the chicken offers hearty protein and the tortellini adds a rich texture. No need for fancy techniques—this dish is approachable for everyone. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to pull together. After one bite, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite in my house!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This creamy chicken tortellini recipe relies on simple ingredients that combine to create a dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Chicken breasts, diced: Boneless, skinless chicken works best. You can also use thighs for extra juiciness.
Cheese tortellini: Fresh or frozen works fine; I prefer fresh for a softer texture.
Heavy cream: The base for that velvety sauce. You can swap for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds richness and a nutty flavor to the sauce.
Butter: Unsalted is ideal to control the salt levels in the dish.
Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is best, but pre-minced garlic works in a pinch.
Chicken broth: Enhances the flavor of the sauce and gives it a savory depth.
Italian seasoning: A classic blend of herbs that ties the flavors together beautifully.
Salt and pepper: To taste. Freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice kick.
Olive oil: For cooking the chicken; use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
Optional veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and color.

Feel free to tweak these ingredients based on what you have. For instance, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken, swap tortellini for ravioli, or add a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat!

Equipment Needed

Large skillet: A deep skillet works best for cooking the chicken and making the sauce.
Large pot: For boiling the tortellini.
Cutting board: To dice the chicken and prep any veggies.
Sharp knife: A good knife makes slicing chicken and preparing ingredients much easier.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring the sauce without scratching your pan.

If you don’t have a large skillet, a medium-sized saucepan will work in a pinch, though you may need to cook in batches. And don’t forget, a good set of measuring cups and spoons always comes in handy.

Preparation Method

Cook the tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Season the chicken: Sprinkle the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
Sear the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Sauté the garlic: Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Add the cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, mixing until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Combine everything: Add the cooked tortellini and seared chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. If adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms, stir them in now and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, if desired.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Don’t overcook the tortellini: Follow package instructions closely to avoid mushy pasta.
Season generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper. The right seasoning makes all the difference in the sauce.
Use fresh garlic: It brings a bolder flavor than garlic powder or pre-minced options.
Let the sauce simmer: Allow the cream and broth to thicken slowly for a velvety texture.
Add veggies: Sneak in some nutrition with spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Cook them briefly to preserve their texture.

The key to success is balancing the creamy sauce with the right amount of seasoning. Don’t rush the simmering process—it’s what turns this dish into a rich, satisfying meal. And if you’re doubling the recipe for a bigger crowd, make sure to use a larger skillet to avoid overcrowding.

Variations & Adaptations

Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and add more veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or artichokes.
Dairy-free adaptation: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Swap the tortellini for a dairy-free pasta.
Low-carb version: Replace tortellini with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower gnocchi.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

I’ve tried swapping the tortellini for ravioli, and the result was just as delicious! For a seasonal twist, add roasted butternut squash in the fall—it pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and chicken.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This creamy chicken tortellini is best served fresh, straight from the skillet while it’s still warm and the sauce is at its creamiest.

Serving: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Pair with a simple side salad or crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving as it may make the sauce separate.

As the dish sits, the flavors meld together even more, making leftovers just as delicious. If you plan to freeze it, do so before adding the Parmesan cheese and cream—these can be stirred in after reheating.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This creamy chicken tortellini recipe is not just comforting—it’s also packed with nutrients to fuel your body.

Protein-packed: Chicken and cheese tortellini provide a hearty dose of protein to keep you full and satisfied.
Calcium-rich: The Parmesan and cream contribute essential calcium for bone health.
Customizable for dietary needs: Easily made gluten-free or dairy-free with substitutions.
Energy booster: Perfect balance of carbs, protein, and healthy fats for sustained energy.

While indulgent, this meal can be tailored to fit various dietary preferences and needs, making it a versatile option for a balanced dinner.

Conclusion

If you’re searching for a recipe that combines comfort, flavor, and ease, this creamy chicken tortellini is the answer. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day, and it’s simple enough to make even when you’re short on time. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable—so you can tailor it to your family’s tastes and dietary needs.

This recipe has become a staple in my home, and I hope it becomes one in yours too. I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Drop a comment below or share your version with me on social media. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just follow the cooking instructions on the package and adjust the timing slightly if needed.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Reheat gently and add the tortellini just before serving.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter option, or try coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.

How can I prevent the sauce from separating?

Cook the sauce on low to medium heat and avoid boiling it. Stir continuously to keep it smooth and creamy.

Can I freeze leftovers?

If you plan to freeze this dish, do so before adding the cream and cheese to the sauce. Add them after reheating for best results.

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