Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream

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Creamy, cheesy, spicy, and packed with flavor—this Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream is what comfort food dreams are made of. Think golden seared chicken seasoned with a bold blend of spices and nestled beside pillowy cheese tortellini, all coated in a rich Alfredo sauce with a kiss of heat and a burst of garlic. It’s indulgent, it’s hearty, and it’s exactly what your dinner table needs tonight.

Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or meal prepping something special for the week, this dish is a flavorful game-changer. It pairs the quick convenience of store-bought tortellini with a homemade spicy garlic rub on the chicken and a silky cheese-laden Alfredo sauce that ties everything together in just the right way.

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What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Cheese tortellini is the best option here. The creamy Alfredo sauce is already rich, so adding cheese-stuffed pasta complements the flavors beautifully without overwhelming the dish. You can use fresh, refrigerated tortellini for the best texture and taste, but frozen or dried will work if that’s what you have on hand—just adjust the cook time accordingly.

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Ingredients for the Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream

Chicken Breasts or Thighs
You want lean but flavorful cuts. Chicken thighs will be juicier, but breasts work beautifully when seared properly.

Cheese Tortellini
The soft, cheese-filled pasta brings comfort and pairs perfectly with the Alfredo cream.

Garlic (freshly minced)
This is where the dish gets its punch. Fresh garlic infuses the cream sauce and seasons the chicken.

Heavy Cream
For that thick, luscious Alfredo base that hugs every bite of pasta.

Parmesan Cheese (grated)
It melts into the sauce for that signature Alfredo taste.

Butter
Used for cooking and flavoring, especially with the garlic for the sauce.

Olive Oil
For getting that perfect sear on the chicken.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
To add that spicy kick without overpowering the dish.

Italian Seasoning, Paprika, Salt & Pepper
These seasonings bring the warmth and depth to your chicken rub.

Fresh Parsley or Basil (optional)
Adds a pop of color and a bit of freshness to balance the creamy base.

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How To Make the Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry and season it generously with a mix of Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken and let it rest before slicing.

Step 2: Boil the Tortellini

While the chicken is cooking, boil a pot of salted water. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.

Step 3: Create the Alfredo Base

In the same skillet you used for the chicken (don’t wipe it clean!), lower the heat and add butter. Once melted, stir in the freshly minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese

Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it fully melts and the sauce thickens. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Toss in the Tortellini

Add the drained tortellini to the sauce and gently stir to coat each piece. Simmer for a minute or two to let the flavors marry.

Step 6: Slice and Serve the Chicken

Slice the rested chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces and arrange on top of or alongside the creamy tortellini. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flair.

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How to Serve and Store Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream

Serve this dish hot off the stove for the ultimate creamy indulgence. It makes a perfect standalone meal, but you can pair it with garlic bread or a crisp green salad to round out your dinner spread. For a touch of elegance, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top with fresh herbs and a light drizzle of olive oil.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s silky texture. For freezing, store only the chicken and sauce—tortellini tends to lose texture after thawing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs give the juiciest texture, but chicken breasts are leaner and cook up beautifully when seasoned and seared correctly.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Absolutely! Simply reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. The garlic and Alfredo cream still bring tons of flavor.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken can be sliced and added at the end. Just warm it slightly before mixing it with the sauce.

What vegetables can I add to this dish?

Great add-ins include spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli. Stir them into the Alfredo sauce just before adding the tortellini.

How do I avoid curdling the Alfredo sauce?

Keep the heat low when adding the cream and cheese, and avoid boiling. Stir constantly and patiently allow the sauce to thicken.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can easily make it so with gluten-free tortellini and by checking labels on the seasonings and cheese.

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Want More Pasta Dishes with a Kick?

If you’re loving this Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream, here are more bold and comforting pasta recipes you’ll want to try next:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for a cozy, family-style dinner.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta if you love Alfredo with an extra cheesy twist.
• Sweet Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta to switch things up with a touch of sweetness.
• Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites for a nostalgic weeknight hit.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli if you want to add veggies into your Alfredo routine.

These are crowd-pleasers that offer all the rich, creamy satisfaction of this tortellini dish, each with its own flavor twist.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner or pasta board so you can find it again when the cravings hit.

And when you try it, I’d love to know! Did you turn up the heat or add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes? Let me know how you made it yours in the comments.

Hungry for more comfort food with bold flavors? Check out my Pinterest board where I share daily recipes like this one. Let’s keep your dinner game strong!

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