Creamy Tuscan Chicken Tortellini is the ultimate comfort dish that tastes like a dream but comes together in under 30 minutes. Picture tender chicken slices nestled among plump cheese tortellini, all bathed in a velvety garlic Parmesan sauce. Add in sun-dried tomatoes and fresh baby spinach, and you’ve got a restaurant-style meal without leaving your kitchen.

This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or an impressive yet effortless dinner for guests. It delivers everything you want in a cozy pasta dish: richness, depth, and a satisfying texture in every bite. Pair it with a glass of white wine or crusty bread for the full Tuscan-inspired experience.

What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

Refrigerated cheese tortellini works best for this recipe, as it cooks quickly and holds its shape well in the creamy sauce. However, you can substitute with frozen tortellini—just increase the cook time slightly and ensure they’re heated through.

Ingredients for the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Tortellini

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound chicken breast, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
3 cups refrigerated cheese tortellini
2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

How To Make the Creamy Tuscan Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken slices with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sear until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer, letting the sauce thicken slightly.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Add the tortellini directly into the sauce. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini is tender and heated through.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Stir in the spinach and cooked chicken. Let everything warm together for another 2 minutes. Season with crushed red pepper flakes if desired, then serve hot.

Serving and Storing Creamy Tuscan Chicken Tortellini

This dish is best served immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh basil if you have it. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen tortellini instead?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Add a few more minutes and check for doneness.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can try swapping the cream for full-fat coconut milk and use a vegan Parmesan alternative, though the taste will slightly differ.

What can I substitute for spinach?

Kale or arugula make great replacements, though they may need a minute longer to soften in the sauce.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the tortellini and cream sauce can change texture when frozen and thawed.

Can I add mushrooms or other veggies?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added when sautéing the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving the rich and creamy flavors in this dish, you should check out these weeknight winners from Nina Dishes:

Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a velvety, garlicky twist.
Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta with bold flavor and hearty sausage.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta if you love romantic meals with depth.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini for another comfort food favorite.
One-Pot Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta for a unique spin on nostalgic flavor.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s just a click away on those busy nights.

And if you give it a try, let me know how yours turned out! Did you go heavy on the garlic? Did you toss in mushrooms or maybe use rotisserie chicken?

I love seeing your twists and questions. Drop them in the comments or tag me if you share it online!

Explore more of my recipes on Pinterest – Nina Dishes.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Tortellini

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Tortellini is a one-pan pasta dish featuring tender chicken, cheese tortellini, and sun-dried tomatoes in a garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and cozy gatherings.

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.

2. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1–2 minutes.

3. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Add tortellini and cover. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.

5. Add spinach and cooked chicken. Let heat through for 2 minutes. Optionally, sprinkle red pepper flakes. Serve hot.