Name: Tuscan Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 10 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini; 1 tablespoon olive oil or sun-dried tomato oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 3/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes; 1/2 cup chicken stock or chicken broth; 2 cups heavy cream; 4 ounces freshly shredded Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish; 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste; 1 cup fresh chopped spinach; 1.5 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; Chiffonade fresh basil

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 13 reviews

There is something utterly comforting and vibrant about the Tuscan Chicken Tortellini Recipe that instantly transports you to a cozy Italian kitchen. This dish combines tender cheese tortellini, succulent rotisserie chicken, and a luxuriously creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, enhanced with fresh spinach and a hint of balsamic vinegar. Every bite bursts with layers of savory, tangy, and fresh flavors, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a delightful meal for when you want to impress without too much fuss. Trust me, once you try this Tuscan Chicken Tortellini Recipe, it’ll quickly become your go-to comfort food that’s easy to whip up but feels incredibly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pan with two handles sits on a white marbled surface. Inside the pan, a creamy light beige sauce covers the base. On the left side, there is shredded pale white meat. On the right side, yellow tortellini pasta with a smooth texture are placed close together. The sauce has small flecks of herbs and spices scattered throughout. The image shows the dish before mixing. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Tuscan Chicken Tortellini Recipe lies in its beautifully simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s delivering the creamy texture, adding bright color, or building up the rich, herby flavor that makes this dish shine.

10 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini: The soft, cheesy pasta pillows form the hearty base of this dish and cook quickly for convenience.
1 tablespoon olive oil (or sun-dried tomato oil): Infuses the sauce with a subtle fruity richness and helps sauté the garlic and seasonings perfectly.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that give the dish its signature Tuscan flair.
6 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a bold, aromatic foundation that awakens the senses.
3/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes: Adds a tangy sweetness and vibrant red color that brightens the creamy sauce.
1/2 cup chicken stock (or chicken broth): Builds depth in the sauce and helps deglaze the pan to capture all the caramelized flavors.
2 cups heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety texture that turns this into a rich and indulgent meal.
4 ounces freshly shredded Parmesan + more for garnish: Brings a nutty, umami kick that perfectly rounds out the sauce.
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar: Adds a subtle tang and complexity that balances the creamy sauce beautifully.
1 cup fresh chopped spinach: Introduces a pop of green freshness and nutritional goodness.
1.5 cups shredded rotisserie chicken: Tender, flavorful protein that makes this dish a satisfying and complete dinner.
Chiffonade fresh basil for garnish: Finishes with a fragrant, herbal note and a gorgeous touch of color.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
Fresh cracked black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to every bite.

How to Make Tuscan Chicken Tortellini Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your refrigerated cheese tortellini just until al dente. This means the pasta should still have a pleasant bite to it, as it will continue cooking once it’s combined with the sauce. Be sure to drain it well and set it aside, but keep it close—you’ll be bringing everything together quickly.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large sauté pan. Add the minced garlic along with the Italian seasoning, and sprinkle in a couple pinches of salt and freshly cracked pepper. Stir frequently as the garlic softens and becomes fragrant—this only takes about 30 seconds but it’s crucial for layering those enticing savory notes in the dish.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in a few splashes of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan with your spoon to lift all those delicious browned bits. This simple technique intensifies the flavor and ensures nothing tasty gets left behind. It’s one of those small steps that really elevates the whole recipe.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce

Now add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, the remaining chicken broth, freshly shredded Parmesan, and another sprinkle of salt and pepper. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir gently, letting the cheese melt into the creamy mixture. Bring the sauce just to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and allow it to thicken slightly. This slow simmer will create that velvety, rich texture we all crave.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Balsamic Vinegar

Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the fresh chopped spinach along with the teaspoon of balsamic vinegar. The vinegar adds a subtle tang that perfectly balances the richness while the spinach wilts softly, adding vibrant color and a fresh bite—so don’t rush this part, the texture is key.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Tortellini

Finally, toss in your shredded rotisserie chicken and cooked tortellini, folding everything together. Let it warm through gently over low heat for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Taste and adjust with extra salt and pepper if needed—this is your last chance to perfect the seasoning.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the Tuscan Chicken Tortellini Recipe to plates or bowls, then top with fresh chiffonade basil and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan for that perfect finishing touch. Now sit back and enjoy the reward of your delicious labor!

How to Serve Tuscan Chicken Tortellini Recipe

A white round plate holds a creamy pasta dish with about two layers of tortellini covered in a thick, light beige sauce that has visible small green and red bits. On top, there is a small pile of thinly sliced fresh green herbs, with some white grated cheese sprinkled around. A fork with a white handle rests on the plate under the pasta. The setting includes a white marbled texture surface and a small round white bowl of fresh green leaves in the top right corner. A black and white striped cloth is visible at the bottom left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil chiffonade is a must-have for its aromatic presence and gorgeous green contrast against the creamy sauce. Don’t forget an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan right before serving—that savory crunch takes every forkful to the next level. A twist of fresh cracked black pepper on top adds a subtle kick that ties all the flavors together.

Side Dishes

Because this Tuscan Chicken Tortellini Recipe is rich and filling, lighter sides work best to complement and balance the meal. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini can add freshness and texture. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are great if you want something to soak up every drop of that gorgeous sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant twist, serve the Tuscan Chicken Tortellini Recipe in shallow pasta bowls and garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for a pop of color and freshness. You could also layer the tortellini and sauce in gratin dishes, sprinkle with extra cheese, then briefly broil until slightly golden for a warm, bubbly finish that’s irresistible at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain the creamy sauce’s smooth texture. Give it a quick stir before covering to keep the tortellini and chicken evenly coated.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container, but keep in mind the cream sauce may change texture slightly upon thawing. To preserve flavors, freeze in individual portions and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and restore creaminess. Stir frequently until heated through, avoiding high heat which can cause the sauce to separate. The slow reheating keeps your Tuscan Chicken Tortellini Recipe tasting just as fresh as the first time.

FAQs

Can I use dried tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as dried tortellini usually takes a bit longer to cook. Be sure to cook them until just al dente so they finish cooking perfectly in the sauce.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, full-fat coconut milk or half-and-half can work, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy. For best texture, heavy cream is ideal to achieve that luscious, velvety consistency.

Is rotisserie chicken necessary or can I use fresh chicken?

Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds built-in flavor, but you can definitely use freshly cooked chicken breasts or thighs. Just shred or chop cooked chicken and add it at the same point in the recipe. It’s an easy way to customize based on what you have on hand.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and substitute vegetable broth for the chicken stock. You can add extra sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for more substance. Consider tossing in some toasted pine nuts or crispy chickpeas for added texture and protein.

What’s the best way to prevent the sauce from separating?

Cook the sauce over medium-low to low heat, and avoid boiling once the cream and cheese are added. Stir gently and don’t rush the simmer so the cream emulsifies properly, keeping the sauce smooth and silky throughout.

Final Thoughts

There’s truly nothing quite like the cozy, satisfying flavors packed into this Tuscan Chicken Tortellini Recipe. From the fragrant garlic and herbs to the creamy sun-dried tomato sauce and tender chicken, every bite feels like a warm hug. It’s a fantastic recipe to have in your weekly rotation because it’s quick, indulgent, and packed with fresh ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. Give it a try tonight—you might just find your new favorite comfort dinner!