Looking for a fast, satisfying dinner that feels like comfort food without the hassle? This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach in Creamy Sauce is a rich, hearty meal that comes together in one skillet — no baking or complicated steps required.
With tender chicken, cheese-filled tortellini, fresh baby spinach, and a velvety garlic parmesan cream sauce, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup. It’s the kind of meal that tastes restaurant-worthy but takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe is a go-to crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Serves 4 people
Main Ingredients
- Two tablespoons olive oil
- One pound boneless skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- Three cloves garlic, minced
- One package (about 9 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Two cups baby spinach, loosely packed
- One and a half cups heavy cream
- One half cup grated Parmesan cheese
- One teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes or extra Parmesan for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 to 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 to 30 minutes
- One-skillet recipe; no oven needed
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
- Cook for six to eight minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Build the Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and remaining Italian seasoning.
- Whisk until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 3: Add Tortellini and Spinach
- Add the uncooked tortellini directly into the sauce.
- Simmer for four to six minutes, or according to package directions, stirring occasionally.
- Once the tortellini is nearly done, stir in the fresh spinach and cooked chicken.
- Cook for another one to two minutes until spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 560 |
| Protein | 35 grams |
| Total Fat | 34 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 17 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 32 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugars | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 470 milligrams |
Nutritional Benefits:
- Chicken and tortellini offer a balance of protein and carbohydrates for energy and satiety.
- Spinach provides iron, calcium, and antioxidants.
- Garlic and Parmesan contribute flavor without relying on artificial additives.
- The recipe is filling and high-protein, making it ideal for post-workout meals or family dinners.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread or a light Caesar salad for a complete meal.
- Add roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
- Serve with a chilled glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for a more elegant experience.
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream with milk and reduce the cheese slightly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not overcook the tortellini — it will become mushy. Keep it al dente.
- Avoid boiling the cream sauce; simmer gently to prevent separation.
- If using frozen tortellini, thaw it first or increase the simmer time slightly.
- Add spinach at the end to preserve its color and nutrients.
Variations to Try
- Use sun-dried tomato tortellini or spinach and ricotta for variety.
- Swap chicken for Italian sausage or cooked shrimp for a different protein.
- Make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and doubling the spinach.
- Add a tablespoon of pesto to the sauce for a basil-garlic twist.
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Spinach is the kind of dish that makes weeknight cooking feel effortless yet indulgent. With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and minimal cleanup, it hits all the right notes for a cozy family dinner or a meal to impress with very little stress.