When comfort food meets bold flavor, you get something magical—like this Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream. It’s a dish that brings together the richness of a creamy cheese sauce, the savory kick of garlic and herbs, and perfectly seared, seasoned chicken. The tortellini soaks up all that cheesy goodness, creating an unforgettable bite every time.

This recipe is perfect for cozy nights in, special family dinners, or anytime you want to impress with something that’s both indulgent and easy to pull together. It’s an elevated twist on your typical pasta dish—layered with textures and flavors that feel straight out of a restaurant kitchen but are totally doable at home.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this flavorful dish come together smoothly, having the right kitchen tools on hand is a game changer:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-bottom Pan: Perfect for getting that golden crust on the chicken while locking in flavor.
Large Pot: Needed for boiling tortellini without crowding them.
Colander: Ensures quick and easy draining of the pasta.

Whisk: Crucial for creating a lump-free, velvety Alfredo sauce.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken evenly and tossing pasta gently into the sauce.
Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: For prepping garlic, herbs, and slicing chicken cleanly.

Each of these tools helps you control heat, texture, and consistency—turning your meal from good to gourmet.

Ingredients for the Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream

Each ingredient in this dish serves a flavorful purpose and layers beautifully together:

Chicken Breasts – A lean protein that holds seasoning well and gets a perfect sear for savory contrast.

Cheese Tortellini – These pasta pillows are filled with cheese, adding creaminess and texture to every bite.
Garlic Cloves – Freshly minced garlic infuses deep flavor into both the chicken and the Alfredo base.
Heavy Cream – The rich foundation for the Alfredo sauce that brings luxurious silkiness.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds sharp, salty depth to the sauce and helps thicken it naturally.
Mozzarella Cheese – For an extra layer of gooey, stretchy goodness.
Red Pepper Flakes – Brings the kick that makes this recipe “spicy” in the best way.

Butter – Adds richness and helps carry garlic flavor into the sauce.
Olive Oil – Ideal for searing chicken while keeping it juicy inside.
Italian Seasoning – Balances herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for a well-rounded flavor.

Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning at every stage.
Fresh Parsley (Optional) – A bright, herby finish that lifts the dish visually and in flavor.

How To Make the Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and a dash of red pepper flakes. In a hot cast iron skillet with olive oil, sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside and slice once rested.

Step 2: Boil the Tortellini

Bring a pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Cook cheese tortellini according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Alfredo Sauce Base

In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat and melt butter. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

Step 4: Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly. Add grated parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheeses melt into a thick, smooth sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and extra red pepper flakes for more heat.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Gently fold the cooked tortellini into the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated. Top with sliced spicy garlic chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

How to Serve and Store Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream

This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet or a warm serving dish. Plate a hearty portion of tortellini and nestle slices of the spicy garlic chicken on top. Add a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes and fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with garlic bread or a crisp green salad to round out the meal.

For storing leftovers, transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may cause the cheese to separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

It has a mild-to-moderate heat thanks to red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the spice level by using more or less according to your preference.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, you can substitute with your favorite jarred Alfredo sauce to save time, though making it fresh delivers the best flavor.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Definitely. Just keep the sauce and tortellini separate from the chicken if storing for later, and combine when reheating for optimal texture.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Absolutely. Shrimp or Italian sausage would also work well in this recipe.

Do I need fresh tortellini or can I use frozen?

Either works! Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package to avoid overcooking.

Want More Chicken & Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream, you’re in for a treat with these other hearty and flavor-packed favorites:

Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta – A comforting blend of veggies, garlic, and cheese.
One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese – Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini – Indulgently creamy and full of cozy garlic flavor.

Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff – A rustic twist on a classic dish.
One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta – For when you want that same spicy garlic hit, but with steak!

And for even more everyday meal inspiration, head over to my Pinterest board: Life With Olivia Recipes.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know how yours turned out in the comments! Did you go bold with the spice? Try a different cheese blend? Maybe added mushrooms or spinach? I’d love to hear your twist on it.

Questions? Drop them below and let’s make dinner delicious together.

Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream is a rich, bold, and comforting dish featuring golden seared chicken breasts, pillowy cheese-filled tortellini, and a silky homemade Alfredo sauce infused with garlic and spice. Perfect for a hearty dinner that’s simple yet elevated.

Instructions

1. Season both sides of chicken breasts with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.

2. In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear chicken on both sides until golden and cooked through. Remove, let rest, then slice.

3. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add tortellini and cook according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

4. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium-low heat. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Pour in heavy cream, whisking to combine. Add parmesan and mozzarella. Stir until cheese melts into a smooth sauce.

6. Season sauce with extra red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.

7. Add cooked tortellini to the sauce, folding gently to coat.

8. Top with sliced chicken and garnish with fresh parsley if using. Serve hot.