Imagine coming home after a long day, the air filled with the irresistible aroma of garlic and butter, and sitting down to a comforting, creamy pasta dish that feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple to make. This Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini in One Pot is the perfect solution for cozy evenings at home when you crave a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss of multiple pans.

Inspired by classic Italian flavors with a modern twist, this dish combines tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich, garlicky sauce with just the right hint of spice. The inspiration came from late-night family dinners where simplicity met flavor—a dish that everyone could enjoy in a single pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing satisfaction. This recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner, a casual weekend meal with friends, or even a comforting treat for one when you need a little culinary indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 package (9 oz / 250 g) cheese tortellini, fresh or refrigerated

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 2 cups fresh baby spinach

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

2. Sauté aromatics: In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning for a subtle kick of heat and flavor.

3. Deglaze and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits. Allow it to simmer for 2 minutes to slightly reduce and intensify the flavors.

4. Add cream and cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

5. Cook the tortellini: Add the tortellini directly into the creamy sauce. Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Combine chicken and greens: Once the tortellini is tender and the sauce has thickened, return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in the fresh baby spinach until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

7. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately for a decadent, one-pot meal that’s creamy, garlicky, and lightly spicy.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

Notes

• Adjusting spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

• Tortellini options: Fresh or refrigerated tortellini works best. If using frozen tortellini, increase the cooking time slightly.

• Protein swaps: While chicken works beautifully, you can try shrimp or turkey for a different twist.

• Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

• Make-ahead tip: The sauce can be prepared in advance. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen it before adding the tortellini.

Why This Recipe Works

There are a few reasons this Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini stands out as a weeknight favorite:

• One-pot convenience: Cleanup is minimal, and all the flavors meld beautifully in a single pan.

• Balanced flavors: The garlic butter sauce offers richness, while red pepper flakes provide just enough heat to elevate the dish.

• Comforting and filling: The combination of protein, pasta, and creamy sauce is satisfying and perfect for dinner cravings.

• Versatility: You can adjust spice, add vegetables, or swap proteins to suit your taste.

Tips for Perfect One-Pot Pasta

1. Use a wide, deep skillet: This allows the tortellini to cook evenly in the sauce without overcrowding.

2. Don’t overcook pasta: Check the tortellini a minute or two before the recommended cooking time to avoid mushy pasta.

3. Deglaze for flavor: Scraping the pan after sautéing chicken and aromatics ensures no flavor is lost.

4. Fresh herbs matter: Parsley or basil added at the end brightens the dish and balances the richness.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

This creamy, garlicky tortellini pairs beautifully with simple sides that won’t overpower the dish:

• Garlic bread or breadsticks: Perfect for sopping up the extra sauce.

• Simple green salad: A light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the pasta.

• Roasted vegetables: Try asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers lightly roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

For drinks, stick with sparkling water, lemonade, or iced tea. The creaminess of the pasta pairs well with refreshing, non-alcoholic beverages.

Common Variations

• Cheesy twist: Add shredded mozzarella or fontina to make the sauce even cheesier and gooier.

• Vegetable-packed: Toss in mushrooms, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes to boost nutrients and flavor.

• Herb-forward: Use fresh basil or oregano in addition to parsley for a more aromatic dish.

• Protein swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp, turkey, or even sausage alternatives for a different spin.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can absolutely prepare parts of this recipe in advance, which makes it even more convenient for busy weeknights or planned gatherings. The best approach is to cook the chicken and make the creamy garlic butter sauce ahead of time, up to 24 hours before serving. Store them together in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The key is to keep the tortellini separate, because pasta tends to absorb sauce as it sits and may become too soft or mushy if stored already mixed. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and chicken mixture gently over low heat on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth or milk as needed to restore the silky texture of the sauce. Then cook the tortellini fresh and combine everything just before serving. This method ensures the dish tastes freshly made while saving you preparation time.

2. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly in this recipe and can be added straight into the pot without thawing. This is a great option if you like keeping tortellini on hand for last-minute meals. Frozen pasta will typically need a few extra minutes to cook compared to refrigerated tortellini. Make sure to stir occasionally so the tortellini doesn’t stick together or settle at the bottom of the pot. You may also notice that frozen pasta absorbs slightly more liquid, so keep an eye on the sauce and add a small splash of broth if needed. The end result remains just as delicious—soft, cheesy, and tender tortellini coated in a creamy garlic sauce.

3. Can I reduce the creaminess?
If you prefer a lighter, less rich sauce, you can absolutely reduce the creaminess without losing the core flavors of the dish. The most common substitute for heavy cream is half-and-half, which still provides a smooth texture but with less fat. Whole milk also works, especially if you simmer it a little longer to allow the sauce to thicken naturally. Keep in mind that using lighter dairy will produce a thinner sauce, and the richness will be slightly reduced. To balance the flavor, be sure to taste and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, and Parmesan.

4. How spicy is this dish?
This recipe features a gentle, approachable level of heat from red pepper flakes, offering a mild to medium warmth that most people enjoy. The spiciness is very easy to control based on your preference. If you’re cooking for children or someone sensitive to heat, you can reduce the amount significantly or leave it out entirely while still maintaining the delicious garlic-butter flavor. For spice lovers, you can add extra red pepper flakes or incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper to create a deeper, more noticeable kick. This flexibility makes the dish suitable for a wide range of tastes and occasions.

Why You’ll Love Making This Recipe

This Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The combination of tender chicken, rich creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked tortellini brings comfort, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite. One-pot cooking makes it approachable for anyone, even those who are new to making homemade pasta dishes. It’s a perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence, ideal for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends.

Beyond the flavor, this recipe is versatile, adaptable, and a crowd-pleaser. You can easily make it your own by adding favorite vegetables, adjusting the spice, or swapping proteins. The creamy sauce clings to every tortellini bite, ensuring no flavor is wasted. Plus, the dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to maintain creaminess.

• Freezing: The cooked pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but the sauce and chicken can be frozen separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before combining with freshly cooked tortellini.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini in One Pot is a game-changer for anyone seeking a quick, flavorful, and comforting meal. Its combination of garlic, butter, cream, and a touch of heat delivers a rich culinary experience without complicated steps. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress while being effortless to prepare.

Enjoy the convenience of one-pot cooking, the satisfaction of a creamy, garlicky sauce, and the joy of sharing a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Give this recipe a try, and it may just become your new go-to for cozy weeknight dinners or anytime you crave a delicious pasta feast.

Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini in One Pot

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A warm, comforting one-pot pasta dish that blends tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, garlic butter, and a touch of spice into a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for cozy evenings when you want a hearty, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Everything cooks in one pot, making it a convenient and satisfying choice for busy nights or relaxed weekend dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced

• 1 package (9 oz / 250 g) fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 6 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth

• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream

• 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 2 cups baby spinach

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

• Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

• Add the remaining butter to the same pan. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.

• Add red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine.

• Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to release browned bits. Simmer for 2 minutes.

• Reduce heat and add heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy.

• Add the tortellini to the sauce, ensuring it is fully submerged. Cover and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender.

• Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add spinach and stir until wilted.

• Taste and adjust seasoning, then finish with chopped parsley. Serve warm.

Notes

• Reduce or omit red pepper flakes for a milder dish.

• Frozen tortellini can be used; increase cooking time slightly.

• Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

• Add extra veggies like mushrooms or peas for more texture.

• Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to maintain creaminess.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Michelle Davis