Description
Get ready to fall in love with bold comfort food. This Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream is the ultimate quick dinner idea that brings the heat and the cream in one unforgettable bite. Tender tortellini are tossed in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce, layered with juicy, spice-rubbed chicken that’s pan-seared to perfection. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner, food ideas to impress, or a creamy pasta recipe with a kick, this dish delivers. Ideal for weeknight meals or cozy weekend indulgence — this is one of those go-to dinner ideas you’ll want to make on repeat.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp onion powder
0.5 tsp cayenne pepper
0.5 tsp chili flakes (optional)
1 tsp dried oregano
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp black pepper
3 cloves garlic minced
0.5 lemon juiced
18 oz cheese tortellini
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic finely minced
1.25 cups heavy cream
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
0.5 tsp Italian seasoning
0.5 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
0.25 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. In a bowl, combine chicken, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, chili flakes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
2. Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini according to package directions, drain, and set aside. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and a drizzle of oil. Sear marinated chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and rest.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in cream and reduce heat to low.
5. Add Parmesan, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt. Stir gently until creamy and smooth. Add pasta water as needed.
6. Toss cooked tortellini into the Alfredo sauce and stir to coat evenly. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
7. Slice chicken and serve on top or beside the cheesy tortellini.
8. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes. Serve hot.
Notes
Let chicken rest after cooking for extra juiciness.
Always use freshly grated cheese for smooth melting.
Adjust spice levels to taste — make it kid-friendly or fiery hot.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion / Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: spicy chicken pasta, creamy tortellini, quick dinner, easy recipe, comfort food