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skillet chicken tortellini recipe

Creamy Skillet Chicken Tortellini

Megan FosterMegan Foster
A comforting and easy one-pan dish, this creamy skillet chicken tortellini is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large skillet
  • 1 wooden spoon
  • 1 knife

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 9 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup spinach leaves
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts toasted
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the tortellini, cover, and cook according to package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes, until tender.
  • Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Return the chicken to the skillet and mix everything together until the sauce is creamy and coats the chicken and tortellini evenly.

Serving

  • Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve hot. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

Storage

  • Allow the dish to cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Let the sauce simmer to thicken naturally.
Ingredient Substitutions: Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for richer flavor. Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter dish.
How to Serve: Pair with garlic bread or a fresh salad.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, and cook the tortellini just before serving.
Keyword creamy chicken tortellini, one pan chicken dinner, skillet chicken tortellini