One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is packed with flavor, thanks to the creamy garlic butter sauce that brings all the ingredients together. It’s quick to make in just 30 minutes and features tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a touch of spice from red pepper flakes. Plus, with only one pot to clean, it’s a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests. The Parmesan and fresh herbs add depth to the dish, making it both indulgent and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 cups fresh cheese tortellini (or ravioli)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 tbsp butter

• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Sauté the Chicken:

   • Season chicken with salt and pepper.

   • In a large pot, melt butter over medium-high heat.

   • Add chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until browned and cooked through.

   • Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

   • In the same pot, melt more butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

   • Stir in crushed red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds to release their flavor.

3. Build the Sauce:

   • Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any bits left in the pot for extra flavor.

   • Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

4. Cook the Tortellini:

   • Add the fresh tortellini to the pot and cook for 4–6 minutes until tender and heated through.

5. Combine and Finish:

   • Return the chicken to the pot, stirring in the Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce becomes creamy.

   • Let everything cook together for another 2–3 minutes.

6. Serve:

   • Top with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving for an added burst of flavor.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes to add extra texture and flavor.

• Make It Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or some chili paste for an extra kick.

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

• Use Different Pasta: Swap out tortellini for ravioli, farfalle, or another pasta you have on hand.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes.

Can I substitute the chicken?

Yes, you can use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different protein option.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and opt for a lower-fat cheese to reduce the richness.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best served fresh but can be frozen for up to a month. Let it cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Thaw and reheat over low heat with a bit of extra cream or broth.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then cook the tortellini and assemble everything just before serving.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy nights. With its creamy garlic butter sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite. You can adjust the spice level and customize the ingredients to your liking, but no matter what, this dish delivers satisfying, restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Enjoy!