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CHICKEN TORTELLINI ALFREDO

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Chicken Tortellini Alfredo Recipe: A Comforting and Creamy Delight

Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a sumptuous dish that combines the savory flavors of rotisserie chicken with the rich and creamy texture of cheese tortellini, all enveloped in a delectable five-ingredient homemade Alfredo sauce. This dish is not only satisfying but also quick and easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special family dinners.

Ingredients

  • 19 ounces refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
  • 5 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (also known as whipping cream)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
  • 2 1/2 cups cooked chicken (diced or shredded)
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Cooking the Tortellini

  1. Boil the Water:
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
  1. Cook the Tortellini:
  • Add the cheese tortellini to the simmering water.
  • Cook refrigerated tortellini for 2-3 minutes, frozen tortellini for 3-5 minutes, or dried tortellini for 10-11 minutes.
  • Reserve a 1/2 cup of the pasta water for thinning the sauce if needed. Drain the tortellini well.

Preparing the Alfredo Sauce

  1. Melt the Butter:
  • While the water is coming to a boil, melt the butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat.
  1. Cook the Garlic:
  • Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1 minute while stirring, ensuring it becomes fragrant but doesn’t burn.
  1. Make the Cream Sauce:
  • Whisk in the heavy cream and add the dried Italian seasoning. Allow the mixture to simmer until slightly thickened, but do not let it boil.
  1. Incorporate the Parmesan:
  • Reduce the heat as low as it will go and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it has melted completely into the sauce.

Combining and Serving

  1. Mix in Tortellini and Chicken:
  • Add the cooked cheese tortellini and shredded chicken to the sauce. Stir well to ensure everything is coated evenly.
  1. Season to Taste:
  • Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  1. Garnish and Serve:
  • If desired, sprinkle the dish with a little chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately. For an extra cheesy touch, serve with additional grated Parmesan on the side.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

  • Tortellini Options:
  • Use refrigerated, frozen, or dried cheese tortellini. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are perfectly tender.
  • Simmering Tortellini:
  • Avoid boiling the tortellini vigorously. Instead, simmer them to maintain their delicate texture.
  • Reducing the Cream Mixture:
  • Allow the cream mixture to reduce by about 1/3. This usually takes around 10-15 minutes. Start this process while the water for the tortellini is heating to save time.
  • Grate Your Own Parmesan:
  • For the best flavor, grate your own Parmesan cheese from a block rather than using pre-grated Parmesan.
  • Using Pasta Water:
  • The reserved pasta water can be used to thin the Alfredo sauce if it becomes too thick. Add it gradually until the desired consistency is reached.
  • Storage and Reheating:
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Use the reserved pasta water when reheating to keep the sauce creamy.
See also  Beef and Cheese Chimichanga

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 735 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 43g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 47g
  • Saturated Fat: 26g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0.4g
  • Cholesterol: 185mg
  • Sodium: 816mg
  • Potassium: 230mg
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Vitamin A: 1337 IU
  • Vitamin C: 1 mg
  • Calcium: 328 mg
  • Iron: 3 mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute tortellini with other pasta types such as fettuccine, penne, or ravioli. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta type you choose.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To make a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reducing the amount of Parmesan cheese. You can also use a smaller amount of butter or opt for a butter substitute.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas can enhance the nutritional value and add color to the dish. Simply cook the vegetables separately and add them to the sauce along with the tortellini and chicken.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze Chicken Tortellini Alfredo. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How can I reheat leftovers without drying out the sauce?

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency. Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from separating or sticking to the pan.

Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a versatile and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you follow the classic recipe or add your own twist, it’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this rich and creamy delight with family and friends, and savor the delightful blend of flavors and textures it offers.

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