Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini One-Pot Delight 🍝🌶️🧄
1. Introduction
If you’re looking for an easy dinner recipe that combines bold flavors with minimal cleanup, this one-pot chicken tortellini dish is the perfect choice. Packed with spicy garlic butter chicken, creamy pasta, and fresh herbs, this recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal in just under 30 minutes. Its versatility makes it a great weeknight dinner for busy households or impressing guests with a hearty, flavorful commitment that’s simple to prepare.
2. Ingredients Needed for Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
- 1 pound chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 package (9-10 oz) of tortellini (cheese or meat-filled)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Shredded Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
3. How to Make Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Spices
In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This step enhances the spicy garlic butter flavor characteristic of this creamy pasta dish.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. This creates the flavorful base for the sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
Stir in the tortellini, cover, and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb the flavors and become tender.
Step 5: Add Cream and Finish
Stir in the heavy cream and cooked chicken. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, adjust salt and pepper to taste, and simmer for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through and creamy. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and, if desired, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
4. Storage Tips for Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to restore creaminess. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but keeps well for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
5. Serving Suggestions
This creamy pasta dish pairs beautifully with a leafy green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For an extra touch of flavor, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added spice. You can also serve it alongside crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
6. FAQs about Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
Can I make this recipe with gluten-free tortellini?
Yes, simply substitute regular tortellini with gluten-free varieties available at most grocery stores. The cooking process remains the same.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use coconut milk or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative in place of heavy cream, and opt for dairy-free butter or margarine. The flavor remains rich and satisfying.
How long does it take to prepare?
This one-pot chicken tortellini recipe takes approximately 25 minutes from start to finish, making it one of the best easy dinner recipes for busy weeknights.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Non-stick skillet or large saucepan — Essential for even cooking and easy cleanup, this pan allows you to prepare the entire dish effortlessly.
- Liquid measuring cups — Precise measurement of broth and cream ensures perfect consistency in your sauce.
- Silicone spatula — Great for scraping down the sides of the pan and mixing ingredients smoothly.
- Cheese grater — For freshly grated Parmesan to garnish your dish.
Using quality kitchen tools can significantly enhance your cooking experience, making this easy dinner recipe even more enjoyable.
8. Variations and Substitutions
If you want to customize this creamy pasta dish, try adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to boost the flavor and nutrition. For a milder taste, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. Vegetarian options can be created by substituting chicken with roasted vegetables or tofu.
9. Conclusion
This spicy garlic butter chicken tortellini one-pot delight is a perfect solution for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Its creamy texture, bold spices, and tender tortellini make it an all-around winner for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone who loves simple yet delicious recipes, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Give it a try today and enjoy a hearty, comforting dinner the whole family will love!
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Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini One-Pot Delight
A creamy, spicy chicken tortellini dish cooked entirely in one pot, blending garlic, butter, and red pepper flakes for a quick and flavorful dinner.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 ounces (340g) cheese tortellini
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions.
- Stir in heavy cream, cooked chicken, salt, and pepper. Cook until sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust spice level by varying red pepper flakes.
- Use cooked chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- Best served immediately, garnished with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free option available by using gluten-free tortellini
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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