Introduction
If you’re searching for a comforting and delicious meal that is both simple to prepare and satisfying, look no further than this creamy cheese tortellini with chicken dish. With the delightful combination of savory chicken, tender tortellini, and a velvety cheese sauce, it’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something hearty and flavorful.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 lb frozen cheese tortellini
1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cubed
8 oz Velveeta, cubed
1 cup shredded mozzarella
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1/2 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: dried basil or Italian seasoning
A splash of olive oil for cooking
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
This creamy cheese tortellini with chicken is not only quick to prepare, but it also brings a comforting sensation with every bite. Whether you choose to serve it as a main dish or pair it with a side salad, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Tortellini
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to form a paste. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, ensuring a smooth mixture. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens, approximately 3 minutes.
Incorporate the Cheeses
Add the cubed Velveeta to the sauce, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella until melted. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a sprinkle of dried basil or Italian seasoning.
Combine and Serve
Return the cooked tortellini and chicken to the skillet, gently stirring to coat them evenly with the sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, add a bit more milk to reach the desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with extra mozzarella or cracked black pepper if preferred.
Notes
Chicken Cut Options
You can use either chicken breast or thighs based on your preference.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to substitute other cheese types, but keep the Velveeta for a creamy sauce.
Spice Adjustments
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Vegetable Additions
For extra nutrition, you can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli to the dish.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Cook Techniques
Cooking Tortellini
Boil salted water and cook the tortellini for 3–4 minutes until tender, then drain and set aside.
Sautéing Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season cubed chicken with salt and pepper, cooking until golden and fully cooked, approximately 6–8 minutes.
Preparing the Sauce
Melt butter in the skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Sprinkle in flour to form a paste, then gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, allowing it to simmer until thickened.
Incorporating Cheeses
Add cubed Velveeta to the sauce, stirring until melted, then remove from heat and stir in shredded mozzarella until smooth, seasoning as desired.
Combining Ingredients
Return cooked tortellini and chicken to the skillet, stirring well to coat with the sauce. Adjust consistency with additional milk if necessary.
FAQ
Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
Yes, if using fresh tortellini, adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, typically reducing it to 2–3 minutes.
What can I substitute for Velveeta?
You can substitute Velveeta with other types of cheese, such as cream cheese or a combination of cheddar and provolone, though the texture may vary.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Yes, you can use whole grain tortellini, leaner cuts of chicken, and low-fat cheese, as well as adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
What can I serve with this tortellini dish?
This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken and cheese tortellini dish is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, providing a comforting meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. The combination of tender tortellini, succulent chicken, and velvety cheese sauce creates a family-friendly dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite herbs or additional vegetables for a personalized touch.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Tortellini Bake
Swap out the chicken for a mix of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach. Combine with the cheese sauce and bake for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Spicy Chicken Tortellini
Add some heat by incorporating red pepper flakes or jalapeños into the sauce for a spicy kick. This variation will spice up your standard tortellini meal.
Tortellini Alfredo with Shrimp
Replace the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist on this dish. The creamy cheese sauce will coat the shrimp beautifully, creating a luxurious meal.
One-Pot Italian Tortellini Soup
Transform this dish into a comforting soup by adding additional broth, diced tomatoes, and fresh spinach. Simmer together for a lighter yet flavorful option.
Broccoli and Cheese Tortellini
Add steamed broccoli florets to the tortellini blend for an extra burst of color and nutrition. The broccoli pairs excellently with the cheese sauce.
Buffalo Chicken Tortellini
Mix in some buffalo sauce to the chicken before combining it with the tortellini, creating a spicy and tangy dish that packs a flavorful punch.
