If you’re craving something rich, comforting, and downright satisfying, you’ve got to try this Alfredo Tortellini with Chicken and Parmesan Recipe. It’s a creamy, dreamy dish where tender cheese-filled tortellini meet succulent shredded chicken, all enveloped in a velvety Parmesan-infused Alfredo sauce that’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for company. Every forkful feels like a warm hug, making it a must-have recipe that elevates your pasta game without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several white bowls and a clear measuring cup on a white marbled surface. There is a white colander filled with yellow tortellini pasta with folded, round shapes. Next to the colander, a white bowl holds shredded cooked chicken with light beige pieces. Above these, a white bowl contains shredded white cheese with long, thin strips. Another small white bowl holds minced garlic with a soft, pale yellow color. Next to it, a small white bowl contains a square piece of butter, pale yellow and smooth. A small white dish holds three spices: black pepper, white salt, and a reddish-brown seasoning, neatly divided. Finally, a clear glass measuring cup is filled with white milk. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Alfredo Tortellini with Chicken and Parmesan Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each item plays an essential role in creating the ultimate creamy texture, balanced flavor, and a beautiful presentation that’s irresistible.

10 ounce package refrigerated cheese ravioli: The star pasta that delivers a luscious cheese filling and tender bite.
4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create the silky base for the sauce.
1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated: Gives the sauce a fragrant punch without overpowering it.
8 ounces heavy cream: Provides the luxurious, creamy texture that makes Alfredo sauce unforgettable.
3 ounces shredded Parmesan cheese: Infuses the sauce with sharp, nutty, and savory notes.
1/4 teaspoon Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors delicately.
1/8 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warming spice to balance the creaminess.
Pinch of nutmeg, optional: A traditional touch that deepens the sauce’s complexity.
1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken: Quick, tender protein that blends beautifully into the dish.
Fresh parsley for garnish: Brings a burst of color and a refreshing herbal hint.

How to Make Alfredo Tortellini with Chicken and Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the refrigerated cheese ravioli according to the package directions. The goal is to achieve that perfect al dente texture where the pasta is tender but still offers a slight bite. This ensures it won’t get mushy later when stirred into the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Base

While the pasta cooks, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large sauté pan over low heat. Add the finely minced garlic and cook gently for 30 to 60 seconds. Be careful not to let it brown, as you want the garlic to release its sweet, aromatic flavor that will beautifully infuse the sauce.

Step 3: Whisk in Heavy Cream and Simmer

Pour in the heavy cream and slowly bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer over medium heat. This careful heating prevents the cream from curdling and ushers in that velvety consistency. Reduce the heat to low or medium-low afterwards and let the sauce thicken for 3 to 4 minutes, whisking frequently. You’ll notice it starting to coat the back of your spoon—this is exactly the texture you need.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Seasonings

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly. Add a pinch of nutmeg if you like, and season with Kosher salt and black pepper. These finishing touches bring the sauce to life, giving it depth and a subtle warmth that complements the richness.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Gently add the drained tortellini and shredded rotisserie chicken to the sauce, tossing everything to coat evenly in that luscious Alfredo goodness. Season again if needed, and then set the pan over medium-low heat just long enough to warm everything through—about two minutes should do it.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of green and a fresh herbal note. Your Alfredo Tortellini with Chicken and Parmesan Recipe is ready to be savored!

How to Serve Alfredo Tortellini with Chicken and Parmesan Recipe

A black pan with two side handles sits on a white marbled surface. Inside the pan, there is a creamy white sauce covering the bottom fully. On the left side, there are yellowish, soft tortellini pasta piled together. On the right side, there is shredded white chicken placed on top of the sauce next to the tortellini. The creamy sauce has small black pepper specks visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few shavings of Parmesan just before serving amps up both the visual appeal and the flavor. For a little extra zing, a crack of black pepper or a hint of red pepper flakes can brighten the richness without overwhelming the delicate cheese sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish shines beautifully alongside simple greens like a crisp Caesar salad or mixed baby greens with a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is a perfect companion, ready to soak up any remaining Alfredo sauce, turning every bite into pure comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Alfredo Tortellini with Chicken and Parmesan Recipe in shallow bowls to highlight the creamy sauce coating every piece of tortellini. For a fun twist, scoop it into hollowed-out mini bell peppers or drizzle a touch of fresh basil pesto on top to add color and an herby surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. The sauce may thicken as it chills, but that’s easy to fix when reheating. Leftovers are best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days to keep the flavors fresh and crema silky.

Freezing

While freezing creamy Alfredo dishes isn’t usually recommended due to potential changes in texture, you can freeze the cooked tortellini and shredded chicken separately if desired. Freeze them in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months and make the sauce fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the dish gently over low heat, stirring frequently. Adding a splash of cream or milk helps to loosen the sauce and bring back that velvety consistency. Alternatively, reheat in a microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until everything is warmed through and luscious again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Absolutely! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to package instructions. Frozen tortellini generally take a bit longer to cook but work perfectly well in this recipe.

What kind of chicken works best in this Alfredo Tortellini with Chicken and Parmesan Recipe?

Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut here because it’s already cooked, shredded, and flavorful. But leftover roasted or grilled chicken also works beautifully.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Yes! You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream for a lighter sauce, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich or thick as traditional Alfredo. Adding a little cornstarch slurry can help thicken it up.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

While the Alfredo sauce is best made fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter base and have the cream and cheese ready to whisk in just before serving. This saves time and keeps the sauce silky and fresh.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking or curdling?

The key is gentle heat—avoid boiling the cream and stir frequently. Adding cheese off the heat and reheating gently helps preserve that smooth texture.

Final Thoughts

This Alfredo Tortellini with Chicken and Parmesan Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. It strikes the perfect balance between comfort and elegance, making it easy to impress your family or friends without fuss. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a favorite in so many homes. So go ahead, dive into that creamy, cheesy goodness—you won’t regret it!

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