One Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

Save this article on:

There’s something deeply comforting about a rich, creamy pasta dish that comes together in a single skillet. This One Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini is everything you crave in a cozy meal—tender chicken, plump cheese tortellini, a velvety garlic butter sauce with a spicy kick, and fresh spinach for a pop of color and balance. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent yet refreshingly simple to prepare.

Perfect for weeknights when you want something hearty and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen, this dish combines the bold essence of garlic butter with the satisfying texture of pan-seared chicken and cheesy tortellini. The mild heat sneaks in just enough to warm your palate without overwhelming the creamy sauce. One bite and this recipe will easily earn a permanent place in your dinner rotation.

---

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

• All-in-One Meal: Protein, carbs, and greens all cooked in one pan—no need for sides or multiple dishes.
• Bold and Comforting Flavors: Garlic butter with a touch of spice makes this irresistibly rich and satisfying.
• Quick and Convenient: Ready in around 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Minimal Cleanup: Fewer dishes mean more time to relax after dinner.
• Family-Friendly: Customize the spice level for picky eaters or turn it up for heat lovers.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to have your kitchen prepped and tools ready to make the process seamless.

Essential Tools & Equipment:

• Large Non-Stick or Cast Iron Skillet: This is your one-pot wonder—ensures even cooking and a beautiful sear on the chicken.
• Tongs or Spatula: Perfect for flipping chicken and stirring everything together without tearing the tortellini.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For prepping chicken breasts and garlic with precision.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Ensures accurate portions for cream, broth, seasoning, and cheese.
• Ladle or Serving Spoon: Helpful for serving the saucy tortellini with ease.

Each of these tools plays a vital role in achieving the creamy texture, even cooking, and gorgeous presentation this dish is known for.

---

Preparation Tips

For best results, start by bringing your chicken to room temperature before searing—it helps get a golden crust without overcooking the inside. Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor punch, and don’t be shy with the butter; it’s a star of the sauce. If using frozen tortellini, make sure they’re fully thawed or adjust the cooking time slightly. Stir gently when the tortellini are added to keep them intact, and let the sauce simmer just long enough to thicken without drying out. A final sprinkle of parmesan and fresh basil or spinach right before serving adds both flavor and a beautiful finishing touch.

---

Ingredients for One Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

• 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
• 1 package (about 10-12 oz) cheese tortellini, refrigerated or fresh
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

---

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear each side until golden brown and fully cooked through (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and set aside.

---

Step 2: Build the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

---

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, then stir in the parmesan cheese. Allow it to melt and thicken the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

---

Step 4: Add the Tortellini

Gently stir the tortellini into the sauce, making sure they’re submerged. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender and cooked through. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash more broth or cream.

---

Step 5: Reintroduce the Chicken & Add Greens

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and nestle it into the sauce. Add the fresh spinach and let it wilt for a minute or two. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly in the creamy sauce.

---

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the spinach is wilted and the dish is heated through, remove from heat. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, and fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

---

Notes

This dish is incredibly versatile—you can switch the tortellini filling to spinach, mushroom, or even meat-based versions based on your preference. For extra richness, stir in a splash of white wine before adding the cream. If you prefer a lower-fat version, substitute half of the heavy cream with milk, though the sauce will be thinner. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients, but you could also use kale or arugula for a slightly different texture and flavor.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Chicken: Dry chicken ruins the texture—cook just until golden and done.
• Boiling the Sauce Too Long: A rapid boil can cause the cream to separate. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
• Tortellini Turning Mushy: Cook just until tender; overcooking makes them fall apart.
• Not Seasoning Layers: Season the chicken and sauce separately to build flavor throughout.
• Adding Spinach Too Early: It wilts quickly—add it at the end to retain color and nutrients.

---

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to bring back the sauciness. Avoid freezing, as cream-based sauces tend to separate and lose their silky texture when thawed.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~720
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fat: 42g
• Saturated Fat: 21g
• Cholesterol: 170mg
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best fresh. You can prep the chicken and sauce a few hours ahead and cook the tortellini right before serving.

What if I don’t have fresh tortellini?

You can use frozen tortellini—just thaw first and slightly increase the cooking time.

How do I adjust the spice level?

Use less or more red pepper flakes depending on your preference. For no heat, omit them entirely.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich and might not thicken as much.

What protein alternatives work here?

Shrimp, sausage, or even rotisserie chicken are great substitutions.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your broth and cheese are gluten-free.

What vegetables can I substitute for spinach?

Kale, arugula, or chopped zucchini can be used instead of spinach.

How do I make this dish more budget-friendly?

Use regular pasta instead of tortellini and add extra veggies for volume.

---

Conclusion

One Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini brings together the ease of a one-pan recipe with the comfort of creamy pasta and bold garlic spice. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this dish delivers flavor, convenience, and satisfaction every time. Try it once, and it may just become your go-to weeknight favorite.

---

Print