Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Cheese

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There’s something deeply comforting about a big pan of creamy pasta, especially when it features tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a silky garlic Parmesan sauce. This Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Cheese is a dish that brings everyone running to the dinner table. It strikes the perfect balance between weeknight-easy and restaurant-worthy, offering rich flavor with every bite.

With juicy bites of seared chicken, pillowy cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach all bathed in a garlicky cream sauce, this is a meal that feels indulgent without being fussy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, it delivers pure comfort in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Tortellini

This recipe is everything you want in a one-pan dinner. It’s fast, filling, and wildly flavorful. The tortellini soaks up the luscious Parmesan sauce beautifully, while the spinach adds a fresh, slightly earthy note that cuts through the richness. You don’t need sides or extra sauces — just a spoon and maybe some warm garlic bread to mop up every drop.

It’s also wonderfully adaptable. Swap the chicken for shrimp or Italian sausage, or stir in sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for added depth. It makes delicious leftovers and is a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.

What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Fresh or refrigerated tortellini works best here. It cooks quickly and holds its shape in the creamy sauce. You can use cheese-stuffed tortellini for a mellow, gooey center, or go for spinach or meat-filled varieties to add even more complexity. While frozen tortellini can work in a pinch, you may need to slightly adjust the cooking time and stir more often to ensure even heating without overcooking the pasta.

Ingredients for the Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Cheese

This dish is all about combining simple ingredients into something rich and satisfying. You don’t need anything fancy, just real flavor from real food. Here’s what makes this recipe shine:

• Chicken breast — Lean, tender, and perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Cheese tortellini — Choose a fresh or refrigerated version for best results.
• Fresh spinach — Adds color, nutrients, and a slight earthiness to the dish.
• Garlic — The backbone of the flavor, it infuses the cream sauce with warmth.
• Heavy cream — Creates that rich, luscious texture in the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese — Freshly grated is ideal for meltability and deep umami flavor.
• Olive oil — Used for searing the chicken to golden perfection.
• Salt and pepper — Basic seasonings to bring everything into balance.

How To Make the Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Cheese

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat with olive oil. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper, then cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and let it rest before slicing.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into a creamy sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

Add the tortellini directly to the sauce. Let it cook according to the package instructions (usually around 3-5 minutes), stirring occasionally to keep it from sticking.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Chicken

Once the tortellini is tender, stir in the fresh spinach. It will wilt quickly in the heat. Add the sliced chicken back into the pan and toss everything together so it’s well coated in the sauce.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Serve immediately while the dish is hot and the sauce is silky. A bit of extra Parmesan on top never hurts!

How to Serve and Store Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Spinach and Garlic Parmesan Cheese

This dish is best enjoyed hot off the stove when the sauce is at its creamiest and the tortellini is still tender. It makes a hearty meal that comfortably serves four people, and you won’t need much else on the plate. Just grab a fork and enjoy it while it’s fresh and comforting.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and keep that luscious texture. Avoid microwaving it too long, as it can cause the tortellini to overcook or the sauce to separate.

What to Serve With Creamy Chicken Tortellini

Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfect for mopping up extra sauce.

Simple Side Salad

A crisp Caesar or garden salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Its nutty, slightly charred edges are a great contrast to the creamy sauce.

Sauteed Green Beans

Keep it light and crisp with a quick sauté in olive oil and garlic.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet and tangy roasted carrots complement the garlicky Parmesan profile.

Caprese Skewers

Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a colorful starter.

Bruschetta

Classic tomato and basil bruschetta on toasted baguette is a bright, flavorful bite.

Antipasto Platter

For gatherings, serve this tortellini with a board of cured meats, cheeses, and marinated veggies to start.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this creamy chicken tortellini, you’ll definitely enjoy these other rich and savory pasta dishes that bring comfort to your table:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a classic one-pot favorite.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce with bold, cheesy flavor.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta when you need something quick and satisfying.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a meatier twist.
• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce for those nights when you want it baked to perfection.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use a different protein? Add some mushrooms? Did your kids ask for seconds like mine did?

I always love to see the variations you try. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, share feedback, or just drop a photo of your plate!

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