One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

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Indulge in a soul-warming bowl of One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini, a dish that effortlessly brings comfort and flavor to your table. This creamy, spicy, and garlicky pasta dish features pillowy cheese-stuffed tortellini swimming in a luscious sauce made with rich butter, aromatic garlic, tender chicken, and a splash of heat. It’s the perfect harmony of indulgence and convenience — a must-try for fans of quick comfort meals with a gourmet twist.

Whether you’re looking to whip up an easy dinner after a long day or planning a cozy night in with your favorite people, this recipe hits all the right notes. Ready in under 30 minutes and made entirely in one pot, it’s a food idea that simplifies cooking without sacrificing taste. The balance of heat, creaminess, and savory chicken makes it a standout among quick weeknight dinner ideas — and it just might become a staple in your rotation.

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Ingredients for this One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

• 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cubed
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
• Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the sauce

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Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by heating olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your cubed chicken. Season generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Cook the chicken for about 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1–2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn it — this is the flavor base!

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Step 3: Deglaze and Create the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This is where the flavor lives! Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.

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Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Add the cheese tortellini directly into the sauce. Reduce the heat slightly and simmer uncovered for about 5–7 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and the sauce begins to thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

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Step 5: Add Chicken and Cheese

Return the cooked chicken to the pot and mix well to coat in the sauce. Stir in the parmesan cheese and let everything simmer together for another 1–2 minutes. The sauce should be rich, creamy, and cling beautifully to the tortellini.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil. If desired, add a small squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Serve hot with extra parmesan and cracked black pepper on top for that perfect touch.

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Storage Instructions

One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: While the tortellini may soften slightly upon thawing, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
• Reheating Tips: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to restore the creamy consistency. Microwave reheating also works — cover loosely and heat in short intervals.

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Estimated Nutrition

Note: Nutrition may vary based on portion size and exact ingredients used.

• Calories: ~540 kcal per serving
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of tortellini should I use?

Refrigerated cheese tortellini works best for this recipe because it cooks quickly and holds up well in the sauce. Frozen tortellini is also fine, just add a few extra minutes of cook time.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken is a great time-saver. Add it during the final minutes just to warm it through.

Is this dish very spicy?

The spice level is moderate due to the red pepper flakes. Adjust up or down based on your preference — or leave it out entirely for a milder version.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the chicken and use veggie broth instead of chicken broth. You could also add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra texture.

What sides go well with this dish?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread is perfect for pairing. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also complement it nicely.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer a bit longer uncovered, or add a small amount of grated parmesan to help thicken it naturally.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Add a bit of flour or cornstarch slurry if you want to keep the thickness.

What herbs can I use besides parsley?

Fresh basil, thyme, or even chives add a great burst of flavor and color to the final dish.

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