There’s something irresistible about a skillet bubbling with creamy chicken and tender pasta, especially when it comes together in just one pan. This creamy chicken and spinach tortellini isn’t just another quick weeknight dinner—it’s the kind of comfort food that feels luxurious without demanding hours in the kitchen. Rich with garlic, Parmesan, and silky cream, it wraps every bite in cozy, satisfying flavor. And when you add juicy chicken and fresh spinach into the mix, it becomes a complete meal that hits every note: hearty, creamy, savory, and just a touch bright from lemon.
It’s the kind of dish you make once and immediately bookmark for next week. Let’s dig into why this is more than just another pasta dinner—it’s a skillet classic waiting to happen.
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Creamy Chicken and Spinach Tortellini: A Luscious One-Pan Weeknight Dinner
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
A rich and creamy one-skillet dinner featuring pan-seared chicken, fresh spinach, and cheese tortellini in a garlic-Parmesan sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, this comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Ingredients
4–6 chicken cutlets or 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 tablespoons butter
2 shallots, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried thyme)
Red pepper flakes, to taste
3 cups fresh baby spinach
1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, divided
1 pound cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
3/4 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
1. Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour and garlic powder. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Stir in the shallots, garlic, thyme, a pinch of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
4. Add the butter and spinach to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until the spinach is fully wilted.
5. Pour in 1 cup of the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 8 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
6. Add the tortellini and the remaining 3/4 cup chicken broth. Cook according to package directions, about 2–3 minutes, until tender.
7. Stir in the cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes, until everything is warmed through and the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Finish with fresh lemon juice just before serving. Serve the chicken topped with the creamy spinach tortellini and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
To make this dairy-free, substitute the cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Add more red pepper flakes if you like heat. Leftovers reheat well—just stir in a splash of broth or cream when warming.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Quick & Easy Dinners
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
The Irresistible Allure of Creamy Chicken and Spinach Tortellini
Why this dish wins hearts at first bite
From the first forkful, you know this dish is something special. The richness of the cream clings to every fold of cheese-stuffed tortellini, while pan-seared chicken adds golden, savory depth. What sets this recipe apart isn’t just its balance of textures, but the way each layer of flavor builds naturally in one pan. It’s creamy without being heavy, rich but still vibrant thanks to a final squeeze of lemon.
This isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or cooking for two, this skillet delivers serious satisfaction with a gourmet twist.
A weeknight hero with gourmet flavor
What makes this creamy chicken and spinach tortellini truly shine is its balance of convenience and elegance. In just 30 minutes, you get restaurant-quality results with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Chicken breasts, a bag of tortellini, a few aromatics, and a splash of cream transform into something truly elevated.
No oven, no baking dishes, no complicated steps. Just one skillet, one cutting board, and a dinner that feels indulgent enough for date night but easy enough for a Tuesday.
The creamy chicken twist that upgrades classic tortellini
Tortellini is already a comfort food favorite, but this recipe upgrades it with golden chicken and a cream sauce so flavorful, you’ll want to mop your plate with bread. The pan-seared chicken adds richness and texture, while the sautéed spinach and shallots keep things fresh and bright.
It’s not just about coating the tortellini—it’s about giving it a purpose beyond pasta night. This is comfort food with layers.
Building Bold Flavor in Every Skillet Layer
Perfectly pan-seared chicken for maximum savor
The secret to great creamy chicken and spinach tortellini starts with the chicken. By slicing the cutlets thin and dredging them lightly in seasoned flour, they brown quickly and evenly in olive oil. This step not only gives the chicken a crispy golden crust but also builds a savory base in the pan for everything that comes after.
Once browned, the chicken rests while the other ingredients soak up all those flavorful pan drippings.
Shallots, garlic, and thyme – the flavor trio
The flavor foundation starts with shallots and garlic, which get gently sautéed in the same skillet with thyme and a pinch of red pepper flakes. These ingredients don’t just scent the dish—they infuse the entire sauce with subtle complexity.
This step is where the dish starts to take on that “how did you make this?” quality, with every layer intensifying in aroma and taste.
Fresh spinach and tortellini bathed in velvety sauce
Spinach is added with a little butter for richness, wilting into the garlicky base just before you pour in the broth. Simmering the spinach in broth lets it mellow and sweeten, making it more than just a leafy add-on—it becomes part of the sauce.
Then comes the tortellini, cooked right in the same pan so it soaks up every bit of flavor. The finishing touch is a swirl of cream and a generous handful of Parmesan, melted into a silky, savory sauce that wraps everything in warmth.
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Spinach Tortellini
Fresh vs. frozen tortellini – what makes the cut
You can use either fresh or frozen tortellini for this recipe—just adjust the cook time by a minute or two. Fresh tortellini will cook slightly faster and tends to be more delicate, while frozen holds its shape well during simmering.
What matters most is choosing tortellini with a flavorful cheese filling that complements the cream sauce. Whether store-bought or homemade, it’s the pasta that soaks up the sauce and delivers the dish’s signature bite.
Cream, broth, and cheese: the trifecta of texture
Cream brings richness, but it’s the combination with low-sodium chicken broth and Parmesan that creates balance. The broth prevents the sauce from becoming too thick, while the cheese adds depth and umami.
If you want a dairy-free twist, full-fat coconut milk works beautifully—offering the same velvety texture with a subtle nuttiness. Just be sure to finish the dish with lemon juice to brighten and balance.
Aromatics and citrus – small touches, big impact
The small flavor notes in this dish make a big difference. Thyme lends earthiness, red pepper flakes give a hint of heat, and lemon juice lifts the whole skillet with a touch of acidity.
These aren’t just afterthoughts—they’re the flavors that turn this from a rich pasta into a balanced, craveable dinner.
Tips, Tricks, and Serving Suggestions
Customizing spice, creaminess, or protein
You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your taste. Want more heat? Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. For extra creaminess, stir in an additional ¼ cup of heavy cream or finish with a dollop of mascarpone.
Prefer a different protein? Swap the chicken for turkey cutlets, Italian sausage, or even shrimp. The sauce and tortellini are versatile enough to pair with almost anything.
Pairing ideas from garlic bread to roasted veggies
A warm, crusty garlic bread is the obvious pairing here, perfect for swiping through the creamy sauce. But it’s also lovely with roasted vegetables like broccolini, asparagus, or even a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
If you’re serving guests, pour a chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay to round out the meal.
Storing and reheating creamy tortellini dishes
Leftovers reheat surprisingly well—just add a splash of broth or cream before warming to loosen the sauce. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
While the tortellini may soften slightly, the flavors continue to meld beautifully, making it just as enjoyable the next day.
More One-Skillet Favorites You’ll Love
Try this easy cheeseburger pasta skillet
If you love one-pan pasta with bold flavors, this cheesy, beefy skillet dinner is next on your list. It’s quick, hearty, and full of nostalgic flavor—just like a classic cheeseburger in pasta form.
Or dig into our cheesy chicken taco skillet
Southwest flavors meet melty cheese and tender chicken in this easy dinner. It’s another skillet superstar for nights when you want big flavor and minimal cleanup.
Why one-pan dinners are the ultimate kitchen hack
One-skillet meals save time, effort, and dishes—but they also build flavor better than anything else. Each step layers onto the last, creating a depth that’s hard to beat.
FAQ About Creamy Chicken and Spinach Tortellini
Is this like Marry Me chicken tortellini?
Yes, the concept is similar—juicy chicken in a creamy, garlicky sauce with bursts of flavor from herbs and cheese. This version adds spinach and tortellini to make it a complete, one-pan meal. It’s every bit as comforting and crowd-pleasing.
Can I use alfredo sauce instead of cream?
You can, but it’s best to go light. Store-bought Alfredo tends to be saltier and thicker, so use a smaller amount and thin it with broth or milk to keep the balance right.
What’s the best kind of tortellini to use?
Look for cheese-filled tortellini with simple, clean ingredients. Brands that use ricotta and Parmesan tend to pair best with the creamy sauce. Whether you use fresh or frozen, the key is to not overcook them—just until they’re tender.
Can I make it dairy-free or low-carb?
For dairy-free, swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. For low-carb, replace tortellini with zucchini noodles or roasted cauliflower and keep the creamy sauce with chicken and spinach—it’s still incredibly satisfying.
Conclusion: Creamy Chicken and Spinach Tortellini for the Win
A dish that blends comfort, convenience, and flavor
Creamy chicken and spinach tortellini is a weeknight dinner that doesn’t feel rushed. With just one pan and half an hour, you’ve got a warm, elegant meal that tastes like it took far more effort. It’s the perfect recipe to add to your rotation when you’re craving something rich, comforting, and just a little impressive.
Why it’s worth making again and again
Once you make it, this dish becomes an instant favorite. It’s endlessly adaptable, easy to reheat, and even easier to love. Whether you keep it classic or make it your own with extra veggies or spice, the core recipe remains rock solid.
Final thoughts for a cozy dinner masterpiece
So the next time you’re staring into your fridge wondering what to make, let this be your answer. One skillet, one beautiful creamy sauce, and a handful of simple ingredients are all you need to make dinner magic with creamy chicken and spinach tortellini.
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