Introduction to the Best Chicken Tortellini Recipe with Spinach
There’s nothing quite like a hearty chicken tortellini recipe to bring comfort to your dinner table, especially when it’s brimming with vibrant spinach and tangy sundried tomatoes. I still remember the first time I whipped up this dish—it was a hectic weeknight, and I needed something quick yet satisfying. To my delight, it not only came together in under 30 minutes but also became an instant hit with the whole family. The creamy sauce envelops the tender chicken and cheese-filled tortellini, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Recipe with Spinach
- Easy and Quick: This chicken tortellini recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, so it’s ideal for busy weeknight meals.
- Creamy Delight: This creamy chicken tortellini recipe with spinach features heavy cream and Allouette or Boursin cheese, creating a luscious sauce that’s hard to resist.
- Family-Friendly:
With flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, this chicken tortellini recipe with spinach is a meal the whole family will enjoy. - Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it based on what’s in your pantry.
- Nutrient-Rich: The addition of spinach adds a healthy twist without compromising on taste.
Key Ingredients for the Best Creamy Chicken Tortellini Recipe with Spinach and Substitutions
- Frozen Tortellini: The foundation of this chicken tortellini recipe is a hearty 1-pound package of frozen tortellini. These delightful pasta pockets are typically filled with cheese, offering a creamy texture that complements the sauce. Ravioli or gnocchi can also be great alternatives if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Allouette or Boursin Cheese: These soft, herb-infused cheeses melt seamlessly into the sauce, adding a rich and creamy flavor. If you can’t find Allouette or Boursin, you can substitute with plain cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs.
- Chicken Breast: A pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into 1-inch cubes provides lean protein and cooks quickly. For a different flavor profile, you could use chicken thighs or even turkey breast. To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Sundried Tomatoes: Half a jar of sundried tomatoes introduces a tangy sweetness that elevates the dish. If sundried tomatoes aren’t available, roasted red peppers or cherry tomatoes can serve as a substitute, offering a different yet delightful flavor.
- Frozen Chopped Spinach: A bag of frozen chopped spinach adds color, nutrients, and a subtle earthiness. Fresh spinach works just as well—just remember to sauté it a bit longer. Kale or Swiss chard can also be used if you want to mix things up.
Ingredients List
Let’s delve into each ingredient to understand how they come together to make this best creamy chicken tortellini recipe with spinach genuinely exceptional.
- 1 lb Frozen Tortellini: These are small, ring-shaped pasta filled with cheese or meat. Using frozen tortellini is convenient and cuts down on prep time. They absorb the flavors of the sauce while maintaining a pleasant texture.
- 1 Package of Allouette or Boursin Cheese: These creamy cheeses are infused with herbs and garlic, which melt into the sauce to create a luxurious texture and depth of flavor. If unavailable, mix 8 oz of cream cheese with a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a minced garlic clove as a substitute.
- 1.5 cups of heavy cream, plus more if necessary: Heavy cream is essential for a rich, velvety sauce. It thickens upon cooking and carries the flavors of the cheese and seasonings. For a lighter option, you could use half-and-half, but the sauce will be less creamy.
- Take about a pound of skinless, boneless chicken breast and cut it into bite-sized pieces about 1 inch in size. Cutting the chicken into uniform cubes ensures even cooking. The chicken adds a hearty element to the chicken tortellini recipe, making it a complete meal. For enhanced flavor, lightly season with salt and pepper prior to cooking.
- ½ Jar of Sundried Tomatoes: Sundried tomatoes offer a concentrated tomato flavor with a hint of sweetness and acidity. Be sure to drain any excess oil if they’re packed in oil. Chopped finely, they disperse throughout the dish, ensuring you get a bit in every bite.
- 1 Bag of Frozen Chopped Spinach: Frozen spinach is a time-saver—it’s already cleaned and chopped. Thaw it and squeeze out excess water to prevent diluting the sauce. Spinach adds nutrients like iron and vitamin K, plus a lovely green color.
- ¼ Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a superior flavor compared to the pre-shredded varieties.
- Lemon for Zesting: Lemon zest brightens the chicken tortellini recipe by adding a fresh, citrusy aroma that balances the rich flavors of the cream and cheese. Use an organic lemon if possible to avoid wax or pesticides on the peel.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your taste: these fundamental flavor enhancers are crucial for balancing flavors. It’s best to season at different stages—while cooking the chicken, after adding the cream, and before serving.
- Olive Oil for Searing: Olive oil is used to sear the chicken, adding a subtle fruitiness. If olive oil isn’t on hand, you can use vegetable or canola oil, but you might miss out on that extra layer of flavor.
How to Make the Best Chicken Tortellini Recipe with Spinach (Step-by-Step)
Ready to whip up this delicious chicken tortellini recipe? Let’s get started! I’ll walk you through each step to ensure a tasty meal that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
In a large pan, warm up one tablespoon of olive oil on medium-high heat. When the oil starts to glisten, add the cubed chicken to the pan.
- Tip: Season the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper before adding it to the skillet for extra flavor.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through.
Step 2: Add Sundried Tomatoes
Stir in the ½ jar of sundried tomatoes with the chicken.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the tomatoes release their flavors and meld with the chicken.
Step 3: Pour in the Heavy Cream
Once the heat has been reduced to medium, add the mixture gradually, 1.5 cups of heavy cream.
- Stir gently to combine, ensuring the cream picks incorporate all the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—avoid boiling to prevent the cream from curdling.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese
Add the package of Allouette or Boursin cheese to the skillet.
- Stir continuously until the cheese has fully fully melted into the sauce, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture.
Step 5: Incorporate the Tortellini
Gently fold in the 1 lb of frozen tortellini to incorporate them into the chicken tortellini recipe with spinach.
- Ensure all the tortellini are submerged in the sauce even when cooking.
- Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes or until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.
Step 6: Add the Spinach
Stir in the bag of frozen chopped spinach.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is heated through and well combined.
- Note: If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a splash of more heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Finish with Parmesan and Lemon Zest
Scatter ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the dish.
- Stir to let the Parmesan melt into the sauce, enhancing the flavor.
- Zest a lemon over the skillet, adding a fresh, citrusy aroma that brightens up the chicken tortellini recipe.
Step 8: Season to Taste
Give the sauce a quick taste test.
- Add salt and pepper as needed to perfect the flavor balance.
- Tip: Remember that Parmesan and sundried tomatoes can be salty, so season cautiously.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Your creamy chicken tortellini with spinach is ready to serve!
- Ladle the tortellini and sauce into bowls or onto plates.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, or if desired, Add some fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, as a garnish.
Chicken Tortellini Recipe with Spinach
This creamy chicken tortellini recipe combines tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, and nutritious spinach in a rich, flavorful sauce. It's a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 lb 16 oz frozen tortellini (cheese-filled)
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 package 5.2 oz Allouette or Boursin cheese
- 1½ cups heavy cream plus extra if needed
- ½ jar about 4 oz sundried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 bag 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season 1 lb of chicken cubes with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Stir in ½ jar of chopped sundried tomatoes with the chicken. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Reduce the heat to medium and slowly pour in 1½ cups of heavy cream. Stir gently to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the package of Allouette or Boursin cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted into the sauce, creating a smooth consistency.
- Gently fold in 1 lb of frozen tortellini, ensuring they’re submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender.
- Stir in the bag of thawed and drained spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more heavy cream.
- Sprinkle ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the dish and stir until melted. Zest one lemon over the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Taste the sauce and add additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Thawing Spinach: Ensure the frozen spinach is fully thawed and excess moisture is squeezed out to prevent a watery sauce.
- Cheese Substitute: If you can’t find Allouette or Boursin cheese, substitute with 8 oz of cream cheese mixed with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and 1 minced garlic clove.
- Adjusting Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a little more heavy cream or reserved pasta water.
- Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
Expert Tips for Success for Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Want to make sure your chicken tortellini recipe with spinach turns out perfectly every time? Here are some insider tips:
- Properly Thaw and Drain Spinach: If using frozen thaw, the spinach is thawed, and any excess moisture is pressed out to prevent a watery sauce from forming.
- Avoid Overcooking the Tortellini: Keep an eye on the tortellini as they cook quickly. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and lose their delightful texture.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts more efficiently and offers a richer taste than pre-shredded varieties.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon Zest: The lemon zest adds a subtle brightness that balances the rich, creamy sauce.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: if it’s too thick, stir in a bit more heavy cream. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
- Season at Each Step: Lightly season the chicken and taste the sauce before serving, adjusting the seasoning if necessary.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Boiling the Cream Sauce: High heat can cause the cream to separate. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer for the best texture.
- Forgetting to Stir: Make sure to stir the sauce regularly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Overcrowding the Pan: If your skillet is small, cook the chicken in batches to make sure it browns properly instead of steaming.
- Using Low-Fat Dairy: Substituting heavy cream with lower-fat options may result in a less creamy sauce and could affect the overall flavor.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about this chicken tortellini recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
Vegetarian Option
- Omit the Chicken: Simply leave out the chicken for a delicious vegetarian meal.
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost the veggie content.
Spice It Up
- Add Heat: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for different flavor profiles.
Cream Alternatives
- Lighter Sauce: Instead of using heavy cream, use half-and-half or mix milk with a bit of cornstarch to thicken.
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute with coconut cream or almond milk creamers designed for cooking.
Pasta Choices
- Try Different Pasta: Swap tortellini with ravioli, penne, or fusilli if you prefer.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free tortellini or pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
Sundried Tomatoes Substitutes
- Instead, you may use roasted red peppers from a jar for a sweeter flavor.
- Fresh Tomatoes: Diced fresh tomatoes can add a fresher taste and lighter texture.
Storage and Reheating Instructions for the Chicken Tortellini Recipe
To make the most of your leftovers, follow these storage and reheating tips:
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Place any leftover creamy chicken tortellini with spinach in an airtight container.
- Shelf Life: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezing Tips for Chicken Tortellini Recipe
- Suitable for Freezing: This dish freezes well, making it great for meal prep.
- To freeze, let the dish cool down completely.
- Place into freezer-safe containers or sturdy freezer bags.
- Label it with the date and freeze it for up to 1 month.
Reheating Instructions
- From the Refrigerator: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If necessary, add a small amount of thickened milk or cream sauce.
- Microwave: Put a serving in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
- From Frozen:Thawing: For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Follow the exact instructions above once it is thawed.
Tips for Best Results
- Avoid Overheating: Gently reheat to prevent the cream sauce from separating.
- Refresh the Dish: Add a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan or a zest of lemon to revive flavors.
| Storage Method | Instructions | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Store in an airtight container | Up to 3 days |
| Freezing | Use a freezer-safe container or bag | Up to 1 month |
| Reheating (fridge) | Skillet over medium-low heat | Immediate use |
| Reheating (frozen) | Thaw in fridge overnight, then heat slowly | Immediate use |
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Tortellini Recipe with Spinach
Elevate your chicken tortellini recipe with spinach by pairing it with these delightful accompaniments:
- Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp mix of mild vinaigrette, cherry tomatoes, and greens enhance the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed Vegetables: Simple sides like steamed broccoli or asparagus add a nice crunch and extra nutrients.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Serve with soft breadsticks sprinkled with garlic and Parmesan for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Refreshing Beverages: A glass of iced tea with a slice of lemon or sparkling water infused with cucumber complements the meal nicely.
- Garnish Ideas: Sprinkle fresh basil, parsley, or additional grated Parmesan on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I substitute fresh spinach for frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach works wonderfully in this recipe. Simply add about 4 cups of fresh spinach leaves to the skillet when you would add the frozen spinach. Sauté until wilted, which should take just a couple of minutes.
2. What can I substitute for Allouette or Boursin cheese?
If you can’t find Allouette or Boursin cheese, you can use plain cream cheese mixed with a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a minced garlic clove. This will mimic the creamy texture and herb-infused flavor.
4. Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare specific components in advance:
- Sauce and Chicken: Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to two days in separate, airtight containers.
- Assembly: When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and chicken on the stovetop, cook the tortellini fresh, and then combine everything.
5. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Definitely! Here’s how:
- To freeze: Let the dish cool entirely before you transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. On the stovetop, reheat slowly over medium-low heat, and add a little cream or milk if the sauce has thickened.
6. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can opt for half-and-half to create a lighter sauce. To maintain the creamy texture, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water to the sauce and simmer until it thickens.
Try These Other Delicious Recipes!
If you loved our Chicken Tortellini Recipe with Spinach, here are some other tasty dishes you might enjoy:
- Boursin Pasta Recipe: A creamy and simple pasta where Boursin cheese adds rich, herby goodness.
- Chicken Penne Pasta: Savory penne tossed with tender chicken—perfect for dinner or meal prep.
- Lemon Chicken Pasta: Juicy chicken in a refreshing lemon sauce over your favorite pasta.
- Chicken Sausage Pasta: Comforting pasta with a flavorful kick from chicken sausage and fresh herbs.
Conclusion
This chicken tortellini recipe with spinach brings together the comforting flavors of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and nutritious spinach in a dish that’s both easy to make and satisfying to eat. Whether preparing for a family dinner or a special event.
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience its delightful blend of flavors. Give it a go, and let me know how it turned out! Your feedback means the world to me, so please leave a comment below, sharing your thoughts or any creative twists you added.