Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

Name: Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini; 3 cups whole milk; 8 ounces Velveeta cheese; 4 ounces cream cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Published: September 3, 2025

by Dian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze.
Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of Velveeta, cream cheese, and mozzarella creates a luscious sauce.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting dish.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking all ingredients in one place, ensuring even heat distribution.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
Measuring cups and spoons: Help achieve precise ingredient quantities for consistent results.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes

For the Tortellini

20 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini

For the Sauce

3 cups whole milk
8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot over medium heat, add the cubed chicken. Cook until browned and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Add the Tortellini

Once the chicken is cooked, add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the pot. Stir to combine with the chicken.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Pour in the whole milk and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add in the Velveeta and cream cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Stir in Remaining Cheeses

Add shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce. Continue stirring until all cheeses are fully melted and incorporated into a creamy sauce.

Step 5: Serve

Once everything is heated through, remove from heat. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is a delightful one-pot meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Pair with Bread

Garlic Bread: Serve with slices of warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Salad Accompaniment

Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a nice crunch and balances the richness of the tortellini.

Garnish with Cheese

Extra Mozzarella: Top your dish with additional shredded mozzarella for an extra cheesy experience.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

Creating the perfect Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to make it even better.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and dairy products for a richer flavor and creamier texture.
Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Make sure to cook the tortellini just until tender; this will keep them from becoming mushy in the sauce.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for enhanced flavor.
Add Vegetables: Consider including steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color in your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

Complement your meal with some tasty side dishes. Here are some great options that pair well with Creamy Chicken Tortellini.

Garlic Bread: A classic choice, perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers brings earthy flavors to your plate.
Caprese Salad: Sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad of mixed greens dressed lightly enhances the meal without overwhelming it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and sauce can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper to taste for a delicious dish.
Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking the tortellini too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely for perfect texture.
Not using enough sauce: A dry pasta dish is unappealing. Ensure you have enough sauce by measuring out ingredients carefully.
Rushing the cheese melting process: Adding cheese too quickly can cause it to clump. Gradually mix in cheeses on low heat for a smooth sauce.
Using low-fat dairy products: Opting for low-fat milk or cheese may compromise creaminess. Use whole milk and regular cheese for the best flavor.
Ignoring storage guidelines: Improper storage can spoil leftovers. Always cool before refrigerating and use airtight containers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
Freeze for up to 2 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavors.

Is this recipe customizable?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortellini available at many grocery stores to keep this recipe gluten-free.

What is the best way to store leftover Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Mozzarella Garlic Sauce is a delightful one-pot meal that’s both rich and satisfying. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether you add veggies or swap out cheeses, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table!

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