Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Bake
If you’re craving a meal that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors, look no further than this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Bake. It’s the perfect blend of tender cheese tortellini, juicy shredded chicken, and a rich garlic Parmesan sauce that bakes into bubbly, golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly and tastes like it took hours to make.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines because it balances simplicity with rich, comforting flavors. The cheese tortellini provides a tender, cheesy base while the shredded chicken adds hearty protein. Garlic and Parmesan cheese elevate the dish with a savory depth, and the creamy sauce ties everything together beautifully. Baking the casserole allows the cheese to melt and brown just right, creating a crispy, golden top layer that’s irresistible.
The addition of Italian seasoning and fresh parsley brings freshness and aromatic notes, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy. Plus, this recipe uses everyday ingredients you likely have on hand, making it easy to whip up on busy weeknights. It’s a one-dish meal that’s sure to impress without any fuss.
What You’ll Gather
- 8 oz cheese tortellini – fresh or frozen works great
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken is perfect
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – for that aromatic kick
- 1 cup heavy cream – adds a luscious, creamy texture
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – sharp, nutty flavor
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – melty, gooey goodness
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs to enhance the flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential for seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil – to sauté the garlic and bring everything together
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – adds a pop of color and freshness
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Large pot – to boil the tortellini
- Skillet or frying pan – for sautéing garlic
- Mixing bowl – to combine the sauce and ingredients
- Baking dish (around 9×9 inches) – to bake the casserole
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy
- Cheese grater – if grating your own Parmesan
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Bake in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the 8 oz of cheese tortellini. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Garlic is the star here, so keep an eye on it to avoid bitterness.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic. Bring it to a gentle simmer and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, shredded chicken, and the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Mix gently so everything is well coated.
Step 5: Assemble the Bake
Transfer the mixture to your greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top for that golden, bubbly finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden brown spots.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
- Replace cheese tortellini with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to cut down on carbs.
- Use cauliflower florets instead of pasta for a vegetable-packed alternative.
- Swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free creamy sauce.
- Choose shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey for lean protein options.
Cook’s Notes
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the heavy cream slightly or add a tablespoon of cream cheese.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese yields the best flavor and texture compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven—just cover to keep moisture in.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Bake comes together easily for make-ahead meals. Prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, then cover tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time until bubbly and hot throughout. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Reader Q&A
Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cheese tortellini works perfectly. Just ensure you cook it according to package instructions before mixing it with the sauce and chicken.
What can I substitute if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. Just note that the sauce might be slightly less rich.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts. You can also use store-bought vegetarian tortellini to keep the dish meat-free.
Can I add more cheese to this bake?
Of course! Feel free to increase the mozzarella or Parmesan if you love extra cheesy dishes. Just keep in mind the bake might be richer and more indulgent.
Keep Cooking
- For another cheesy chicken pasta delight, try the Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne—it’s packed with gooey cheeses and tender chicken.
- If you love baked pasta dishes, the Baked Four Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups are a fantastic, cheesy twist on classic lasagna.
- For a seafood pasta option with garlic richness, check out the Garlic Butter Scallop Fettuccine—it’s elegant and full of flavor.
Make It Tonight
With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Bake is your go-to for a cozy dinner tonight. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with garlic flavor—everything you want in a comforting pasta bake. Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that everyone will ask for again and again.
This dish perfectly marries ease and indulgence, making it an essential recipe to keep in your weeknight dinner rotation. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this bake is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the 8 oz of cheese tortellini. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic. Bring it to a gentle simmer and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, shredded chicken, and the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Mix gently so everything is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to your greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden brown spots.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the heavy cream slightly or add a tablespoon of cream cheese.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese yields the best flavor and texture compared to pre-grated varieties.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven; cover to retain moisture.
