Get ready to fall in love with comfort food all over again! Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce is a mouthwatering dish that combines juicy chicken, tender cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, and a velvety, cheesy garlic cream sauce. It comes together quickly and easily—perfect for busy weeknights or an impressively cozy meal for friends and family. Every forkful bursts with creamy, garlicky richness, savory Parmesan, and a touch of green for a dinner that’s both indulgent and perfectly balanced.

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed by how a few staple ingredients can create such an irresistible, restaurant-worthy dinner. Each component builds flavor, creaminess, and heartiness in every bite. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Cheese tortellini: These delicate filled pasta pockets soak up the sauce and add an extra cheesy bite.
Olive oil: A dash to cook the chicken and boost savory depth.
Chicken breasts: Lean, juicy protein that anchors the whole dish.
Garlic: A punch of aroma that makes the entire kitchen smell heavenly.
Baby spinach: Lends a pop of vibrant green and subtle earthiness.
Heavy cream: The secret to that luscious, creamy texture in every mouthful.
Chicken broth: Rounds out the flavors and keeps the sauce from being too thick.
Parmesan cheese: Brings nutty, salty, cheesy flavor that defines the sauce.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts in for gooey, stringy cheesy goodness.
Italian seasoning: A thoughtful blend to enhance the Italian-inspired essence.
Red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat to balance the cream and cheese—use if you like a subtle kick!
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle for garnish, adding freshness and color at the finish.

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until they’re perfect—plump but not mushy. Drain them gently and set aside; you want them ready to catch every bit of that dreamy sauce later.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces, season with a generous pinch of salt and pepper, and cook for about 5–7 minutes. The goal is a golden crust and fully cooked, juicy chicken. Transfer the chicken to a plate—the magic is just getting started.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Without wiping out the skillet (all those chicken flavors, yes please!), toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, just until fragrant. You want it to smell irresistible but not browned.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to scrape up every flavorful bit from the pan. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer for about 3–4 minutes so it starts to thicken. Now, stir in the Parmesan, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like things a little spicy. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and you have a silky, smooth sauce.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Finish

Stir in the roughly chopped baby spinach and let it wilt—this takes just a minute but brings both color and nutrition. Return the cooked chicken and tortellini to the skillet, tossing everything together so it’s coated in that irresistible sauce. Give it a taste and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce

Garnishes

A finishing flourish is the secret to taking Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce from hearty to unforgettable. Sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness, and don’t be shy with a little extra Parmesan if you want a snow-like cheesy effect on top.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich and filling, so consider pairing it with a simple side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette, or crisp roasted vegetables. Warm, crusty bread (think garlic or focaccia) is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

You can serve Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce family-style in a big serving bowl, or plate individually with a sprinkle of parsley and some fresh cracked black pepper. For a special touch, pile the tortellini high and swirl the sauce in a wide-rimmed pasta bowl to show off that luscious creaminess.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re meal prepping, portion individual servings for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.

Freezing

While creamy sauces sometimes change texture after freezing, you can still freeze Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce. Let it cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, simply return leftovers to a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and stir until it’s heated through and creamy again. The microwave works too—just use short bursts and stir for best results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just cook the frozen tortellini according to the package directions, making sure not to overcook so they stay plump and tender for the sauce.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

Yes, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half, reduce the cheese a bit, and even use rotisserie chicken for a slightly lighter but still creamy result.

Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers all fit seamlessly with the flavors in Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce and add extra color and nutrition.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No worries—mix together a blend of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and a pinch of rosemary or marjoram to recreate that classic Italian flavor.

How spicy is this dish with the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat, but you can easily adjust the amount or leave them out entirely if you prefer a milder flavor. Taste as you go and make it your own!

Final Thoughts

Whether you need an easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopper for your next gathering, Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce always delivers a big, comforting hug in a bowl. Give it a try—and don’t forget to share the love (and that extra sauce) with your favorite people!

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce Recipe

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4.7 from 23 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a comforting and flavorful dish with this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce. Tender cheese tortellini, juicy chicken, and fresh spinach are enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce bursting with garlic and Parmesan goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini:

1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 cups baby spinach (roughly chopped)
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the Tortellini: Prepare tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sear the Chicken: In a skillet, cook chicken in olive oil until browned. Remove and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Sauté garlic, then add cream and broth. Simmer, then stir in cheeses, seasoning, and spinach.
Combine and Serve: Return chicken and tortellini to the pan, coat in sauce, adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half and reduce the cheese slightly.
Add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired