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. The buttery, garlic-infused sauce is perfectly complemented by the subtle heat of crushed red pepper flakes and the richness of Parmesan cheese. Tender chicken and soft tortellini come together in this comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe will satisfy all your cravings. Plus, since it’s made in just one pot, cleanup is a breeze. It’s quick, flavorful, and sure to become a regular in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just one pot, you can whip up this delicious meal without the fuss of multiple pans.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy sauce and tender pasta. It’s a hit at the dinner table!
Quick Cooking Time: In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Comfort: The combination of garlic and butter creates an irresistible aroma that fills your home with warmth.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish is great for meal prep! Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients that will bring this One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini to life. These items are easy to find and make for a deliciously satisfying meal.

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences:

Swap the Protein: Use shrimp or diced turkey instead of chicken for a different twist.
Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach or broccoli during cooking for an extra boost of nutrition.
Choose Different Pasta: If tortellini isn’t available, use any small pasta shape like penne or shells.
Adjust the Spice Level: For less heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether.

How to Make One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through—this should take about 6–8 minutes. This step builds flavor right from the start! Once done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In that same pot, add another tablespoon of butter (because who doesn’t love more butter?). Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant—this takes only about 30 seconds. Adding red pepper flakes at this stage enhances their flavor as they infuse into the buttery goodness.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Next, pour in 2 cups of chicken broth while scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This adds depth to our sauce! Now stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This creamy base is what makes our dish so indulgent.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Once simmering, add in your fresh tortellini (or ravioli) and cook for about 4–6 minutes until they’re tender and heated through. Keep an eye on them; fresh pasta cooks quickly!

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Finally, return that beautiful sautéed chicken back into the pot. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Allow everything to simmer together for an additional 2–3 minutes so those flavors meld beautifully!

Now you have a hearty bowl of One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini ready to be devoured! Enjoy every creamy bite with your loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, so here are some pro tips to make your One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini even more delicious!

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality chicken broth enhance the flavors significantly. Fresh ingredients bring brightness and depth that dried alternatives may lack.
Adjust Heat to Your Liking: If you prefer a milder dish, start with less crushed red pepper flakes and add more gradually. This way, you can control the spice level to suit your taste and that of your guests.
Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Keep an eye on the cooking time for the tortellini; overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. Perfectly cooked tortellini will hold its shape and provide a delightful bite in each forkful.
Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or a sprinkle of feta for added flavor. Different cheeses can bring unique textures and tastes that elevate the dish.
Reserve Some Pasta Water: Before draining any excess liquid, reserve a cup of pasta water. Adding it back into the pot can help adjust the sauce’s consistency without sacrificing flavor.

How to Serve One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

Serving this dish is as fun as making it! With its creamy sauce and vibrant colors, you’ll want to present it beautifully. Here are some ideas to impress your family or guests:

Garnishes

Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Grated Cheese: A light dusting of additional grated Parmesan not only looks appealing but also enhances the cheesy flavor.
Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest adds a bright, zesty note that complements the rich garlic butter sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate. It’s an easy-to-make side that everyone loves!
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta. The crunch and acidity will brighten your meal.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy component that pairs well with this dish. Its mild flavor complements the buttery sauce while adding essential nutrients.
Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and seasoned with salt brings elegance to your table. Its earthy taste works wonderfully alongside the creamy tortellini.

This One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about enjoying good food and great company! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. The flavors only get better as they sit, making leftovers a delightful treat.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Enjoy your dish within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.
If possible, separate the tortellini from the sauce to maintain texture.

Freezing

Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
Transfer to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
Freeze for up to 2 months; label with date and contents.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Stir frequently until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini without chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a vegetarian version. Just sauté them until tender before adding the garlic and following the rest of the recipe.

How spicy is One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini?

The spice level largely depends on how much crushed red pepper flakes you add. Start with a teaspoon and adjust according to your taste preference if you like it milder or spicier!

Can I use frozen tortellini in this recipe?

Yes! Frozen tortellini works perfectly. Just add them directly into the pot as instructed, but you may need to increase cooking time by a couple of minutes.

What can I serve with One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. A fresh side will complement its rich flavors beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this dish is sure to bring smiles around the table. Enjoy every bite, and please do let me know how it turns out!