One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini is the perfect blend of ease and flavor. This dish is designed for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. With its rich garlic butter sauce and tender chicken, it promises a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, the one-pot cooking method means less cleanup, making it an ideal choice for any home cook.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
- Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
- Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
- Step 5: Combine and Finish
- How to Serve One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Pair with Bread
- Include a Salad
- Serve in Individual Bowls
- How to Perfect One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
- Best Side Dishes for One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
- Reheating One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use different types of pasta?
- How can I customize One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini?
- Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
- What if I want a milder version?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and savory sauce that elevates the dish.
- One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in one pot simplifies both preparation and cleanup, saving you time.
- Versatile Dish: Great for family dinners or entertaining guests; this meal fits any occasion with ease.
- Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and tender tortellini create a comforting dish that warms the soul.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini effectively, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure your meal turns out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking of all ingredients while preventing spills.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring your ingredients mix well.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to better flavor balance in your dish.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping chicken and garlic quick and easy.

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 with salt and pepper.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes).
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same pot, add a bit more butter if needed.
- Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add the crushed red pepper flakes and stir to combine.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Stir in the heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
- Add the fresh tortellini.
- Cook for about 4–6 minutes until tender and heated through.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
- Return the cooked chicken to the pot.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Let everything cook together for another 2–3 minutes before serving.
This One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini is sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy every flavorful bite!
How to Serve One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
Serving your One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini can elevate the meal experience. Here are several creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of freshness.
- Chili Flakes: Add a few extra red pepper flakes for those who crave more heat.
Pair with Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a satisfying crunch.
- Crusty Baguette: Offer slices of crusty baguette to soak up the savory sauce.
Include a Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the richness of the dish.
- Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette adds brightness and balance.
Serve in Individual Bowls
- Personalized Portions: Serve the tortellini in individual bowls for a cozy dining experience.
- Family-Style Serving: Alternatively, serve it from a large pot for a communal feel.
How to Perfect One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
Perfecting your One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini can enhance both flavor and presentation. Here are some tips to consider.
- Bold Seasonings: Don’t shy away from seasoning your chicken well. This adds depth to the overall flavor.
- Use Fresh Tortellini: Opting for fresh tortellini instead of dried will yield better texture and taste.
- Adjust Creaminess: For a richer sauce, increase the amount of heavy cream or reduce broth slightly.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for 5 minutes before serving helps flavors meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
Adding side dishes can enhance your meal and create a well-rounded dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic make a great complement.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide refreshing contrast.
- Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil offers a low-carb alternative alongside your meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs makes a perfect pairing for soaking up sauce.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with lemon add an earthy crunch.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A medley of quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives brightens the plate with freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of this dish.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality tortellini for the best flavor. Cheap ingredients can lead to a bland dish.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until browned and cooked through. Overcooking can make it dry and less enjoyable.
- Neglecting the Seasoning: Don’t skip seasoning your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking. This step enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Adding Tortellini Too Early: Wait until your sauce is simmering before adding tortellini. Adding them too soon can result in mushy pasta.
- Ignoring Consistency Adjustments: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to achieve the desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Consider freezing without adding cheese, then mix in when reheating.
Reheating One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover lightly, and reheat in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or cream to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini that may help you as you prepare this dish.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While tortellini works wonderfully, you can substitute with other pasta types like penne or farfalle.
How can I customize One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini?
Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What if I want a milder version?
Reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer less heat in your One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini.
Final Thoughts
One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This recipe allows for customization based on personal preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try today, and enjoy the rich flavors that come together effortlessly!
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One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, creamy tortellini, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this one-pot wonder allows you to create a flavorful meal without the hassle of excessive cleanup. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a comforting dish that is sure to impress family and friends alike. The combination of savory chicken, fresh cheese tortellini, and aromatic herbs makes every bite a satisfying experience.
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
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a large pot, melt butter over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until browned (about 6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds, then add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Pour in chicken broth while scraping any bits from the bottom. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add tortellini and cook for about 4–6 minutes until tender.
- Return cooked chicken to the pot, mix in grated Parmesan cheese until melted, then serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg





