Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini in Mozzarella Three-Cheese Sauce

If there’s one dish that perfectly embodies creamy indulgence, rich flavor, and simple elegance, it’s this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini in Mozzarella Three-Cheese Sauce. Tender chicken strips, pillowy cheese tortellini, and a velvety three-cheese sauce make every bite a decadent experience. This is the ultimate comfort food that’s elegant enough to serve guests, yet cozy enough for a weeknight dinner at home.

Whether you’re craving a creamy pasta dinner with a hint of spice, or simply want a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds, this recipe delivers. It’s ready in just 35 minutes and brings together classic Italian flavors with a subtle Cajun kick for depth and warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini

Here’s what makes this dish stand out:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in 35 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Creamy & Rich: The three-cheese sauce—Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan—creates a luxurious, silky coating.
• Tender, Flavorful Chicken: Searing the chicken locks in moisture while seasoning with Cajun spice adds a subtle kick.
• Comfort Food at Its Finest: Soft tortellini, rich sauce, and aromatic garlic make it irresistible.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone, from kids to adults, will love this indulgent pasta.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe serves 4 and uses fresh, readily available ingredients.

Protein:

• 2 small chicken breasts, sliced into thick strips

Pasta:

• 10 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)

Sauce Base:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

Cheeses:

• 3 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1½ oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning & Garnish:

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Tip: Using a combination of cheeses ensures a creamy, rich, and flavorful sauce that coats the tortellini perfectly.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this dish flawlessly, gather:

• Large pot for cooking tortellini
• Large skillet or sauté pan for chicken and sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or spatula for stirring sauce
• Knife and cutting board
• Tongs or spoon for tossing pasta
• Grater for Parmesan cheese

Having all tools ready makes the process efficient and stress-free.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps closely to create a perfectly creamy, cheesy tortellini dish.

1. Cook the Tortellini

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3–4 minutes for fresh pasta.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ¼ cup of pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency if necessary.

Pro Tip: Slightly undercook fresh tortellini—they’ll continue to absorb the sauce, ensuring they remain soft without becoming mushy.

2. Season the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken strips dry with a paper towel to ensure even searing.
2. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

The Cajun seasoning adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

3. Sear the Chicken

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and fully cooked.
3. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Chef Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to get a nice golden crust on the chicken.

4. Build the Sauce Base

1. Reduce heat to medium.
2. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.

Garlic forms the aromatic backbone of the sauce, infusing each bite with richness and warmth.

5. Add Liquids

1. Pour in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream.
2. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.

This combination of liquids creates the foundation for a luscious, creamy sauce.

6. Melt the Cheeses

1. Add Velveeta and cream cheese first, whisking until smooth.
2. Gradually stir in mozzarella and Parmesan, whisking until the sauce is glossy, thick, and velvety.

Tip: Add cheeses gradually to prevent clumping and to ensure a smooth, cohesive sauce.

7. Season and Finish the Sauce

1. Stir in Italian seasoning and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
2. Simmer on low for 2–3 minutes until the sauce reaches a rich, velvety consistency.

The Italian seasoning adds subtle herbal notes that complement the garlic and cheeses perfectly.

8. Combine the Tortellini

1. Gently fold the cooked tortellini into the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated.
2. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs to loosen slightly.

This step ensures every bite is coated with the creamy, cheesy goodness.

9. Bring It Together

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning some sauce over it.
2. Let rest for 1 minute to allow flavors to meld.

Serving Tip: Resting allows the sauce to slightly thicken and infuse the chicken with flavor.

10. Serve and Garnish

1. Arrange tortellini and chicken on plates side by side.
2. Drizzle additional sauce over the top.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

A simple garnish elevates the dish visually and adds a touch of freshness to balance the richness.

Tips & Variations

• Spice Level: Increase Cajun seasoning or add crushed red pepper for a spicier version.
• Vegetable Boost: Sauté spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added texture and nutrients.
• Cheese Swap: Gouda or fontina can replace Velveeta for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Protein Swap: Shrimp or sausage work beautifully in place of chicken.
• Dairy-Free: Use vegan cream cheese, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese to make it dairy-free.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Sauce: Rich, creamy, cheesy with a subtle Cajun kick.
• Chicken: Juicy, golden, and perfectly seasoned.
• Tortellini: Soft, pillowy, and perfect for absorbing the sauce.

Suggested Side Dishes: Serve with garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the sauce.

Nutritional Overview

Approximate nutrition per serving (4 servings total):

• Calories: 870 kcal
• Protein: 42g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fat: 55g (Saturated: 30g)
• Fiber: 3g
• Cholesterol: 210mg
• Sodium: 850mg

This is a hearty, protein-rich, and comforting meal perfect for dinner when you want something indulgent yet satisfying.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Chicken: Can be cooked ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 1 day.
• Tortellini: Cooked al dente and stored separately.
• Sauce: Can be prepped in advance and reheated gently, stirring frequently to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.

3. How can I make it spicier?
Add more Cajun seasoning, a pinch of cayenne, or crushed red pepper flakes.

4. Can I use pre-grated cheese?
Yes, but freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a smoother sauce.

5. How long will leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain sauce consistency.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Step	Time	Notes
Prep chicken & tortellini	5 min	Slice chicken, measure ingredients
Cook tortellini	3–4 min	Al dente
Sear chicken	6–8 min	Medium-high heat
Make sauce	10 min	Melt cheeses, simmer
Combine tortellini & chicken	3 min	Coat with sauce, warm together
Garnish & serve	1 min	Parsley & Parmesan
Total	35 min	Ready to enjoy

Serving Suggestions

• Serve in wide bowls to highlight the creamy sauce.
• Drizzle extra sauce on top for presentation.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Recipe Variations

1. Spinach & Sun-Dried Tomato Tortellini: Add wilted spinach and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
2. Creamy Pesto Chicken Tortellini: Stir in 2 tablespoons of basil pesto for a fragrant variation.
3. Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tortellini: Toss cooked chicken with buffalo sauce before adding to the pasta.
4. Mushroom Lover’s Version: Sauté a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms in the butter before adding garlic.

Ingredient Spotlight

Velveeta & Cream Cheese

• Function: Provides smooth, creamy texture and richness to the sauce.
• Tip: Cube Velveeta for even melting and whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps.

Cajun Seasoning

• Flavor: Smoky, slightly spicy, and aromatic.
• Tip: Toast lightly in a dry pan for deeper flavor before seasoning the chicken.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Pat chicken dry for a golden sear.
• Gradually add cheese to prevent clumping.
• Use reserved pasta water to loosen sauce without losing flavor.
• Serve immediately to enjoy the sauce at its creamy best.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Chicken: Store separately for up to 1 day; freeze if needed.
• Tortellini: Can be frozen after cooking in airtight containers.
• Sauce: Refrigerate for 1–2 days; do not freeze with pasta for best texture.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount	Notes
Calories	870 kcal	Rich, satisfying portion
Protein	42g	Chicken & cheese
Carbs	58g	Tortellini
Fat	55g	Cheeses & butter
Saturated Fat	30g	High due to cheese & cream
Fiber	3g	Minimal
Cholesterol	210mg	Eggs and cheeses
Sodium	850mg	From seasoning & cheeses

Expanded Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini in Mozzarella Three-Cheese Sauce is indulgence at its finest—rich, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting. The combination of tender chicken, soft tortellini, and a velvety, flavorful sauce makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Every bite is a balance of creamy, cheesy, and subtly spiced flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Serve it with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Give this recipe a try, savor every bite, and make it a staple in your comfort food repertoire—you won’t regret it!

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