Creamy Tuscan Chicken Tortellini

This creamy Tuscan chicken tortellini comes together in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients! Perfect for busy weeknights, this cozy pasta dish is loaded with flavor and requires minimal effort.

Easy Creamy Tuscan Chicken Tortellini Recipe

• A quick and easy one-pan dinner ready in about 30 minutes.
• Packed with sun-dried tomatoes and tender cheese tortellini in a rich, creamy sauce for the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Chicken Tortellini

• Cheese Tortellini: The base of this dish! Use refrigerated tortellini for the best texture. Frozen tortellini also works. Just cook according to package directions.
• Olive Oil: Adds flavor to the sauce and helps sauté the garlic. Try using oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes for even more flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that creates a savory, well-rounded taste. Use dried basil, dried oregano, and dried thyme if you don’t have a blend.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the sauce bold flavor. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adds tangy, slightly sweet flavor and texture. I prefer the oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes.
• Chicken Stock: Thins the sauce and adds depth. Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used instead.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a rich, creamy sauce. Half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be thinner.
• Parmesan Cheese: Brings salty, nutty flavor to the sauce. Grate it fresh so it melts easily, and makes a super creamy sauce. Romano or Asiago will work as well.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Adds a hint of acidity to balance the richness. Red wine vinegar or white balsamic vinegar can be used instead.
• Fresh Spinach: Adds color, nutrients, and a light, earthy flavor. Kale or arugula are great alternatives.
• Rotisserie Chicken: Makes this recipe super quick and easy! Leftover cooked chicken also works well.
• Fresh Basil: A bright, fresh garnish that complements the creamy sauce. Optional but highly recommended.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Chicken Tortellini

Cook the tortellini just until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently. Deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, remaining chicken broth, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Cook for a couple minutes over medium-low heat until the cheese melts. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly.

Add balsamic vinegar and spinach and stir until the spinach wilts.

Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Stir in the chicken and cooked tortellini and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Season to taste with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.

Tips for Making Creamy Tuscan Chicken Tortellini

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the creamiest sauce and the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Don’t overcook the tortellini. Most refrigerated brands only need about 3 minutes. The tortellini will cook a bit more in the sauce as well.
• Adjust the sauce thickness by adding more chicken broth or cream, depending on your preference.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Make-Ahead Instructions

• You can prepare the sauce up to 1 day in advance and store it in the fridge.
• When ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce, then stir in freshly cooked tortellini and chicken.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Chicken Tortellini

• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at half power, stirring often.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• crispy garlic bread
• spinach artichoke cheese bread
• Caprese garlic bread
• olive cheese bread
• simple house salad

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