One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy tortellini, and a punch of flavor in just one pot. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also features a rich garlic butter sauce that is simply irresistible. The combination of spices with the buttery goodness makes it stand out as a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With everything cooked in one pot and ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of garlic, butter, and crushed red pepper flakes gives this dish an unforgettable taste.
• Versatile Option: Ideal for different occasions, whether it’s a family meal or hosting friends.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in one pot means less time spent on washing dishes afterward.
• Hearty Meal: Filling enough to satisfy your cravings while being light on the stomach.

Tools and Preparation

To create your One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in cooking efficiency and enjoyment.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows for easy mixing and prevents spills while cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients without damaging your countertops.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and efficient cutting of chicken and vegetables.
• Measuring cups: Accurately measuring ingredients helps maintain the recipe’s intended flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Tortellini

• 2 cups fresh cheese tortellini (or ravioli)

For the Sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

For the Broth

• 2 cups chicken broth

For Creaminess

• 1 cup heavy cream

For Flavor

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish

• 1 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt half of the butter.
3. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes).
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same pot, add a bit more butter if needed.
2. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Stir in crushed red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

1. Pour in chicken broth while scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pot.
2. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

1. Add fresh tortellini to the pot.
2. Cook for 4–6 minutes until tender and heated through.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

1. Return cooked chicken to the pot.
2. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
3. Let everything cook together for an additional 2–3 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini!

How to Serve One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

Serving your One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini in delightful ways can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that pair well with this flavorful dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and a fresh taste.

Add a Zesty Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Serve with a light mixed greens salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the tortellini.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, enhancing the meal’s flavor.

Include a Vegetable Side

• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds a healthy crunch and complements the creamy sauce.

Serve with Extra Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Offer additional grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who love extra cheesiness in their dish.

Create a Family-Style Presentation

• Large Serving Bowl: Serve in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves, making it perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties.

How to Perfect One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

To get the most out of your One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini, follow these simple tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Bold Seasoning: Always season your chicken well. A good amount of salt and pepper enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh tortellini instead of dried for better texture and taste. Fresh pasta cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, add extra crushed red pepper flakes during cooking. This allows you to customize spiciness to your liking.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps meld all flavors together.
• Creamy Consistency: For creamier sauce, consider adding more heavy cream gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It reheats well but may need a splash of broth to regain creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

Pairing sides with your One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs perfectly with creamy pasta dishes; toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing and croutons.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make an elegant appetizer.
4. Grilled Zucchini: Sliced zucchini grilled until tender offers a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the rich tortellini.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch alongside your creamy meal.
6. Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter featuring olives, artichokes, and marinated vegetables creates an inviting start to your meal.
7. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts until crispy adds depth and crunch that pairs wonderfully with creamy dishes.
8. Spinach & Feta Stuffed Peppers: These baked peppers filled with spinach and feta provide both texture and flavor contrast to the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish.

• Using cold chicken: Always start with chicken at room temperature. This ensures even cooking and prevents toughness.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Keep an eye on the cooking time for the tortellini. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, so follow package instructions closely.
• Not seasoning properly: Don’t forget to taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavors in your dish.
• Skipping the scraping step: When adding broth, scrape the bottom of the pot well. This releases caramelized flavors that add depth to your sauce.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add brightness. Don’t skip them; add just before serving for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini.

Can I make One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini without cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.

What type of tortellini should I use?

Fresh cheese tortellini works best, but you can also use frozen varieties if that’s what you have on hand.

How spicy is this dish?

The level of spice depends on how much crushed red pepper flakes you use. Start with less and adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I customize the protein in this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey or beef if you prefer those proteins over chicken.

Final Thoughts

One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini is a delightful meal that combines comforting flavors and easy preparation. Its versatility allows for various protein options and customization with different herbs or vegetables. Give it a try, and enjoy this delicious dish!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini, a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken and creamy cheese tortellini in a rich garlic butter sauce, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. The blend of spices and creamy textures makes it a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups fresh cheese tortellini
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt half the butter. Cook chicken until browned (6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add more butter if needed and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (30 seconds). Stir in crushed red pepper flakes.
3. Pour in chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Add tortellini and cook for 4–6 minutes until tender.
5. Return chicken to the pot and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Cook together for an additional 2–3 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 840mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 130mg