There’s a moment in every busy week when meal planning feels like a mini-crisis—what to make, how to keep it simple yet satisfying? Enter my Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce. This dish is an absolute lifesaver, delivering a comforting, delicious dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes. Imagine twirling tender cheese tortellini, bathed in a velvety garlic sauce, with the added protein of juicy chicken and the goodness of fresh spinach. It’s not just quick to whip up; it’s also adaptable. Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp or sausage, or toss in whatever greens you have on hand. This one-pan meal checks all the boxes—wholesome, easy, and utterly satisfying. Curious about how to make this cozy dish for yourself? Let’s dive in! Why is this dish a weeknight winner? Convenient Cooking: This one-pan meal saves you from extensive cleanup, making it ideal for busy evenings. Creamy Comfort: Velvety garlic sauce with parmesan envelops each tortellini, creating a delightfully indulgent experience. Flavor Flexibility: Easily swap ingredients—try shrimp for chicken or experiment with different greens—as your taste buds dictate. Quick Prep: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for last-minute dinner decisions. Pair it with a crisp salad or some garlic bread for an effortless feast. Need some other quick ideas? Check out these Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas and Honey Garlic Chicken for more flavorful meals! Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Ingredients For the Chicken • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The main protein source that can be substituted with shrimp or sausage for a twist. • Cajun Seasoning – Provides bold flavor; opt for a mild version if you prefer less heat. • Smoked Paprika – Adds depth and smokiness; regular paprika works as a substitute. For the Sauce • Olive Oil – Ideal for searing chicken; any neutral oil will also do the job. • Butter – Enhances the sauce’s flavor; use olive oil as a dairy-free alternative. • Minced Garlic – Essential for that rich garlic taste; fresh is best, but pre-minced saves time. • Chicken Broth – Adds moisture and depth; vegetable broth is a great vegetarian substitute. • Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, creamy sauce; half-and-half or non-dairy cream lightens it up. • Parmesan Cheese – The star of cheesy flavor; substitute with Pecorino Romano for a stronger profile. • Shredded Mozzarella – Adds creaminess; optional but recommended for that melty texture. • Salt and Pepper – For seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences. For the Tortellini and Greens • Frozen Cheese Tortellini – The perfect carbohydrate; fresh tortellini can be used with adjusted cook time. • Baby Spinach – A nutritious addition that can be swapped with kale or arugula for variety. With these simple yet wholesome ingredients, you’re one step closer to making the delightful Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Begin by patting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This adds a delightful kick of flavor. Let the seasoned chicken sit for a moment while you heat up your skillet. Step 2: Sear the Chicken In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear for about 5–6 minutes per side until they’re golden-brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate to rest and retain its juiciness. Step 3: Sauté the Garlic In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter, allowing it to melt. As the butter starts bubbling, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden. This step builds the rich garlic flavor essential for our creamy sauce. Step 4: Create the Sauce Base Next, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the broth to reduce slightly for about 2–3 minutes. This will deepen the sauce while incorporating all those delicious drippings. Step 5: Cook the Tortellini Once simmering, add 12 ounces of frozen cheese tortellini to the skillet. Stir gently and cook according to package instructions, usually about 5–7 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and beautifully coated with the broth, soaking up all the flavors from the skillet. Step 6: Fold in the Spinach After the tortellini is cooked, add 4 cups of fresh baby spinach into the skillet. Stir well and let it wilt into the mix for about 2 minutes. This adds a vibrant color and nutritional boost, making your Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce even more wholesome. Step 7: Make it Creamy Lower the heat and slowly pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly. Toss in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheeses melt and create a velvety sauce that envelops every piece of pasta and spinach, turning it delectably creamy. Step 8: Combine and Serve Slice the rested chicken into strips and return it to the skillet, gently folding everything together to coat the chicken in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, and watch everyone savor this delightful one-pan meal that brings comfort to your dinner table. Expert Tips for Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini • Mind the Searing: Don’t rush the chicken searing; this is crucial for achieving a golden crust and rich flavor. • Smooth Sauce Magic: Strain any excess moisture from thawed frozen spinach to avoid a watery sauce in your Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini. • Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute the chicken for shrimp or sausage based on what you have available. It’s versatile and delicious! • Gentle Reheating: Reheat leftovers slowly on the stovetop with a little broth or cream to keep the sauce creamy and prevent separation. • Add Extra Greens: Consider tossing in other greens like kale or arugula. They not only boost nutrition but also add vibrant color and texture! What to Serve with Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini? Elevate your dinner experience by adding delightful sides to complement this creamy, comforting dish. Crisp Green Salad: A fresh mix of lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast to the rich tortellini, balancing the meal perfectly. Garlic Bread: Warm, toasted garlic bread is the ultimate companion, perfect for soaking up that luscious creamy sauce. Its buttery, garlicky aroma fills the air with comforting familiarity. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers provide a colorful, nutritious addition that enhances the dish’s flavors and offers a satisfying crunch. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and a fresh bite, enhancing the nutritional profile while balancing the meal’s richness. Creamy Coleslaw: The tangy flavor and crunchy texture of coleslaw bring a fun twist, offering a perfect palate cleanser alongside that velvety garlic sauce. Red Wine: Pair with a glass of Merlot or Pinot Grigio. The wine’s fruity notes will harmonize beautifully with the creamy, cheesy goodness of the dish. Tiramisu: For a sweet finish, serve this classic Italian dessert. Its creamy layers and coffee flavor will round off your comforting meal with a decadent touch. Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own, adding flavors and textures that excite your taste buds! Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a delightful seafood twist. Cook shrimp just until pink to avoid overcooking. Sausage Addition: Swap the chicken for Italian sausage for a hearty, flavorful change. Remove casing and crumble into the skillet for a rich flavor. Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas instead of chicken to create a protein-packed vegetarian version. The earthiness will complement the creamy sauce beautifully. Greens Galore: Substitute baby spinach with kale or arugula for a nutritious, vibrant change. Each green brings its unique flavor and texture. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic for a mild heat that elevates the flavors. Adjust to taste for your preferred spice level! Different Tortellini: Experiment with tortellini filled with different cheeses, like spinach and ricotta or even pesto-filled pasta for additional flavor profiles. Smoky Flavor: Use smoked mozzarella instead of regular mozzarella for a lovely, deep flavor in your sauce. It adds another layer of deliciousness! Creamy Alternatives: Lighten up with half-and-half in place of heavy cream or try non-dairy cream for a healthier option while keeping that velvety texture. Make sure to also check out these delicious ideas like Garlic Butter Chicken and Steak Garlic Parmesan for more adaptable and tasty meals! How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Consider dividing into smaller portions for easy reheating. Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the creamy texture of the Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen dish in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results. Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on weeknights! You can prep the chicken by seasoning it with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can also cook the tortellini and make the creamy sauce up to 3 days ahead; simply combine the broth, garlic, and heavy cream, then refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat everything together in a skillet, adding fresh spinach just before plating to maintain its vibrant color. Enjoy restaurant-quality comfort at home with minimal effort! Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use? For this dish, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully as they cook quickly and stay juicy. However, I often suggest swapping in shrimp or sausage if you’re looking to change things up—both options provide distinct flavors while keeping the dish delightful. How do I know when my ingredients are ripe and fresh? When selecting spinach, look for bright green leaves without dark spots or wilting, as this indicates freshness. For the chicken, it should be pinkish in color and without any unusual odor. If fresh tortellini isn’t available, frozen cheese tortellini are perfectly fine, but check the packaging for the best before date to ensure quality. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store your Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain its delicious flavors. Can I freeze this meal, and if so, how? Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or portion it into smaller freezer bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’d like to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth for the best creamy texture. What should I do if my sauce is too thick? If you find your sauce has become too thick after cooking, simply add a little chicken broth or heavy cream while reheating to loosen it up. Stir well while you heat it, and don’t forget to taste for seasoning—this will bring it back to that delectable, creamy consistency you love! Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions? While the recipe contains dairy, you can make it dairy-free by substituting heavy cream with a non-dairy cream alternative, and using olive oil instead of butter. Always check for allergies if serving guests, especially with the tortellini, as it may contain eggs or other allergens depending on the brand. Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini in Creamy Spinach Delight Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce is a quick, one-pan dinner perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Can be substituted with shrimp or sausage.1 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning Use a mild version if preferred.1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used as a substitute.For the Sauce2 tablespoons Olive Oil Any neutral oil can be used.2 tablespoons Butter Use olive oil for a dairy-free option.3 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh is best.1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be substituted.1 cup Heavy Cream Can use half-and-half or non-dairy cream.½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Substitute with Pecorino Romano if desired.1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Optional but recommended.to taste Saltto taste PepperFor the Tortellini and Greens12 ounces Frozen Cheese Tortellini Fresh tortellini can be used with adjusted cook time.4 cups Baby Spinach Can substitute with kale or arugula. Equipment large skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let sit while heating skillet.Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side until golden-brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.Pour in chicken broth, scraping the skillet's bottom to release bits. Bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce.Add frozen cheese tortellini to the skillet and cook according to package instructions (about 5–7 minutes), until tender.Stir in baby spinach and let it wilt for about 2 minutes.Lower the heat and add heavy cream, stirring. Mix in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy.Slice the rested chicken and fold into the skillet. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper and serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesMind the searing to achieve a golden crust. Strain excess moisture from spinach to avoid watery sauce. Substitute proteins based on preference. Reheat leftovers gently with cream or broth. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
