Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream

When comfort food meets a kick of spice, magic happens in the form of this Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream. Every bite is loaded with tender tortellini, succulent chicken, and a fiery garlic-infused Alfredo sauce that clings to every curve of pasta. It’s the kind of dish that makes a weeknight dinner feel like a special occasion.
This creamy, cheesy bowl of goodness strikes the perfect balance between richness and bold heat. The spicy garlic hits you first, followed by the mellow creaminess of the Alfredo and a pop of cheesy tortellini that brings the whole experience full circle. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself, this recipe is a quick way to a cozy, flavor-packed meal.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini
This dish brings together everything you want in a comfort meal: creamy Alfredo, spicy garlic, and the satisfying chew of cheese-stuffed tortellini. It’s ideal for those who love heat but also crave a rich, cheesy finish. What makes this recipe extra special is how fast it comes together without sacrificing depth of flavor. Plus, it’s flexible. Swap the chicken for shrimp or skip the meat entirely and go vegetarian.
Can I Use Store-Bought Tortellini for This Dish?
Absolutely! In fact, store-bought tortellini is one of the biggest time-savers for this meal. Whether you go for refrigerated or frozen varieties, both work beautifully. Cheese tortellini is the most traditional option here, as its creamy filling complements the Alfredo perfectly. Just be sure to cook it al dente so it holds up well when tossed in the sauce.
Ingredients for the Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream
The ingredients in this dish are everyday staples, but they come together to create something truly crave-worthy. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor that are spicy, creamy, and comforting.
- Cheese tortellini
- Chicken breast
- Garlic
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Butter
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley


How To Make the Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and black pepper, then remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Base
In the same pan, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then add red pepper flakes to bloom the spice.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Cream
Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the pan, followed by the cooked tortellini. Toss to coat everything in the sauce and simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, spicy perfection.
How to Serve and Store Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream
This tortellini dish is rich and filling, making it a full meal on its own. Serve it straight from the skillet while it’s hot and creamy. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread to mop up the extra Alfredo sauce. Garnish with extra parsley or chili flakes if you like more heat. This recipe comfortably feeds four hungry people.
To store leftovers, transfer the cooled tortellini to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
What to Serve With Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream?
Garlic Bread
A golden, buttery slice of garlic bread takes the meal over the top and is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
Roasted Broccoli
The charred edges and slight bitterness of roasted broccoli offer a great contrast to the creamy richness of the tortellini.
Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine, salty Parmesan, and tangy dressing balance out the spicy, cheesy profile of this pasta dish.
Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
These add a touch of sweetness and a hint of acidity that cuts through the creamy sauce beautifully.
Caprese Skewers
For something light and fresh, cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on skewers drizzled with balsamic glaze work well.
Lemon Asparagus
The brightness of lemon and snap of asparagus add a zesty contrast that freshens up the whole meal.
Herby Focaccia
Fluffy, olive-oil rich focaccia with rosemary or thyme adds another delicious layer of flavor to this indulgent dish.
Sparkling Water with Lemon
A refreshing drink like sparkling water with lemon helps cleanse the palate between bites and keeps the meal from feeling too heavy.
Want More Pasta Ideas With a Bold Twist?
If you love this Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream, here are a few other creamy, flavor-packed pasta dishes to dive into next:
- Try this Creamy Mushroom Ravioli Recipe for a cozy night with deep umami flavors.
- Craving more Alfredo? This Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni is a crowd-pleaser.
- Looking for something smoky and hearty? Don’t miss our Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.
- Need a seafood variation? Check out the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna.
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make it extra spicy? Did you swap in shrimp or keep it classic with chicken?
I love hearing your kitchen stories. Questions are welcome too — let’s make dinner easier together.
Explore more comforting, flavor-forward meals on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next favorite dinner.
Conclusion
Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream is the kind of meal that wraps you in comfort while giving your taste buds a little thrill. It’s simple, quick, and bold enough to make your weekly rotation. From the garlic bite to the creamy finish, every element works in harmony. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your go-to pasta dinner whenever you want something easy but unforgettable.
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Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A creamy and spicy pasta dinner, this Spicy Garlic Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Alfredo Cream is perfect for cozy nights. Made with cheese tortellini, juicy chicken, garlic, crushed red pepper, and rich Alfredo sauce, this comfort meal is ready in just 30 minutes. Great for family dinners, meal prep, or indulgent pasta cravings.
Ingredients
12 oz cheese tortellini
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes and stir for about 30 seconds.
4. Lower the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add grated Parmesan and stir until fully melted and smooth.
5. Return the cooked chicken and tortellini to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the cheesy Alfredo sauce. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top, serve immediately, and enjoy while hot.
Notes
This dish is best served immediately while the sauce is fresh and creamy.
If reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s texture.
You can substitute chicken with shrimp or skip the meat for a vegetarian option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg