If you’re looking for a meal that’s packed with flavor but still easy to make, this One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini is everything you need. This dish combines tender chicken with creamy tortellini in a garlic-infused butter sauce, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. The unique blend of spices and cheese ensures that each bite is a burst of comfort and satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a rich sauce that elevates the simple ingredients.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or an impressive dish for guests.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and mixing of all ingredients without overflow.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meat, keeping your workspace organized.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts, speeding up your prep time while enhancing safety.

Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh cheese tortellini (or ravioli)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
- Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same pot, add a little more butter if necessary.
- Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth while scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring it to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
- Add fresh tortellini to the simmering sauce.
- Cook for about 4–6 minutes until they are tender and heated through.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
- Return the sautéed chicken back to the pot.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Let everything cook together for another 2–3 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini!
How to Serve One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
Serving One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to enjoy this flavorful dish.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with basil or parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs on top for added freshness and color.
- Add a squeeze of lemon: A touch of citrus enhances the flavors and adds brightness to the dish.
Accompanied by Bread
- Serve with garlic bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the tortellini perfectly.
- Try crusty Italian bread: Use it to soak up the delicious sauce for an extra treat.
As a Complete Meal
- Pair with a light salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad adds crunch and balances the richness.
- Include roasted vegetables: Add seasonal roasted veggies for more texture and nutrients.
How to Perfect One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
To ensure your One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tortellini will cook faster than dried, yielding a better texture.
- Adjust heat levels: Customize the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Ensure the chicken is just cooked through to maintain juiciness.
- Stir frequently: This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking of the tortellini.
- Let it rest before serving: Allowing it to sit for a few minutes helps flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
Complement your One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini with these delightful side dishes for a well-rounded meal.
- Garlic Bread – A classic pairing that’s fantastic for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
- Steamed Broccoli – This healthy option adds vibrant color and nutrients to your plate.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze enhance the meal’s flavors.
- Roasted Asparagus – Seasoned asparagus spears add a delicious crunch and earthy taste.
- Zucchini Noodles – Light and low-carb, they provide additional bulk while remaining healthy.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a fun, summery vibe to your dinner table.
- Mixed Vegetable Medley – A colorful assortment of sautéed seasonal veggies elevates your dish nutritionally.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.
- Skipping the seasoning: Many forget to season the chicken. Seasoning enhances the flavor, so sprinkle salt and pepper before cooking.
- Overcooking the tortellini: If you cook tortellini too long, they become mushy. Always follow the package instructions for perfect texture.
- Not scraping the pot: Failing to scrape up bits from the bottom can lead to missed flavors. Be sure to deglaze the pot when adding broth.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold cream can cause your sauce to curdle. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before adding.
- Rushing the sauce: Cooking the sauce too quickly can result in uneven flavors. Allow it to simmer gently for a balanced taste.
- Not tasting as you go: It’s crucial to taste your dish while cooking. Adjust seasonings as needed for the best flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow it to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy thawing.
Reheating One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini.
Can I use other types of pasta instead of tortellini?
Yes! You can substitute with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
What can I add for extra spice?
For additional heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or more crushed red pepper flakes when cooking.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! Replace chicken with mushrooms or your favorite vegetables and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I store leftovers of One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for later enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or adjusting the spice level. It’s an easy dish that is sure to impress anyone at your table—give it a try!
One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini, a delightful meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. This dish features tender chicken and creamy cheese tortellini enveloped in a garlic-infused butter sauce, creating a perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. The combination of spices and rich Parmesan elevates this easy recipe, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. With its customizable spice level, you can tailor the heat to your liking, ensuring every bite is a satisfying experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh cheese tortellini
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. In a large pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Cook the seasoned chicken until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add more butter if needed and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Stir in crushed red pepper flakes.
- Pour in chicken broth while scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add fresh tortellini to the simmering sauce and cook for about 4–6 minutes until tender.
- Return sautéed chicken to the pot. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted; let cook together for another 2–3 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 830mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 160mg



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