Name: One Pan Tortellini with Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste); 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices; 1 cup heavy/whipping cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 (9 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini; 2 cups shredded cooked or rotisserie chicken; 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach; Salt and pepper, to taste; Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, to taste)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 10 reviews

If you’re craving an effortless yet comforting meal that bursts with flavor and comes together in just one pan, you’re going to adore this One Pan Tortellini with Chicken Recipe. It’s a lovely blend of creamy sauce, tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and delicate cheese tortellini all simmered to perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this dish feels cozy and special without any fuss in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A shiny silver pan sits on a white marbled surface. Inside the pan, in the left image, there is one layer of small, chopped white onions cooking in a thin layer of oil, softening and turning slightly clear. In the right image, the same pan shows multiple layers: a creamy white sauce forms the base, topped with scattered chopped red tomatoes, sprinkled black pepper, and pale yellow tortellini pasta pieces resting on top, some beginning to float. The textures vary from smooth sauce to the soft, plump tortellini and small tomato bits. The pan handle extends out toward the bottom left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building the rich, creamy, and savory layers that make this dish shine. From the silky cream to the fresh spinach, every component contributes to the texture, flavor, and visual appeal of this One Pan Tortellini with Chicken Recipe.

1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base for sautéing and brings out the flavors in the aromatics.
1 tablespoon butter: Offers richness and a velvety finish to the sauce.
1/2 medium onion (chopped): Provides a sweet and savory foundation when softened.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Packs a punch of aromatic depth that complements the Italian seasoning.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A perfect herb blend that lifts the overall flavor profile.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or to taste): Brings just the right hint of heat without overpowering.
1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices): Adds tangy brightness and balances the creaminess.
1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Creates a luscious, thick sauce that coats every bite.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the sauce light and flavorful, preventing it from getting too heavy.
1 (9 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini: The star pasta, soft and cheesy in each tender pillow.
2 cups shredded cooked/rotisserie chicken: Protein-packed and ready to absorb all that saucy goodness.
2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach: Adds a fresh, slightly earthy green contrast and vital nutrients.
Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring everything together.
Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, to taste): For a final touch of sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.

How to Make One Pan Tortellini with Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by melting the olive oil and butter in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté gently until it becomes soft and lightly browned, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base and sweet undertones that set the stage for everything to come.

Step 2: Build the Sauce and Cook Tortellini

Next, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Let those spices bloom for a minute before adding the entire can of diced tomatoes (with their juices), creamy heavy cream, chicken broth, and the refrigerated cheese tortellini. Crank the heat up to medium-high and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes. The magic here is that the tortellini cooking right in the sauce releases starch, helping it thicken and intensify the flavor. Watch the heat to prevent too vigorous bubbling.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Reduce

Fold in the shredded cooked chicken, letting it warm through gently for a couple of minutes. As the sauce reduces and your kitchen fills with that irresistible aroma, feel free to splash in a little extra cream if the mixture seems like it’s drying out. This step ensures the chicken soaks up the flavors while keeping everything creamy and luscious.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach and Season

Finally, stir in the fresh baby spinach and allow it to wilt in the heat of the sauce. This vibrant addition gives the dish a fresh, colorful contrast and subtle earthy note. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, then serve piping hot, with an optional shower of freshly grated parmesan cheese for that classic Italian finish.

How to Serve One Pan Tortellini with Chicken Recipe

A white bowl filled with a creamy pasta dish that has three main layers: the bottom layer is small yellow ravioli with a soft, smooth texture; the middle layer contains shredded light brown chicken mixed with wilted dark green spinach and pieces of red tomato; the top layer is covered in a thick light orange sauce sprinkled with finely grated white cheese and small black pepper flakes. A gold and white spoon rests inside the bowl, and the bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese is a wonderful touch—it melts slightly into the warm pasta and adds a nutty, salty burst. Fresh basil or a few basil leaves torn over the top can also brighten the dish and give it an inviting, fragrant note that’s tough to resist.

Side Dishes

While this One Pan Tortellini with Chicken Recipe stands beautifully on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette can introduce a refreshing crunch. Garlic bread or warm, crusty bread is another classic side to soak up every last bit of creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this dish in warm bowls and place individual parmesan curls on top for an elegant touch. Drizzle a swirl of good quality olive oil or a few drops of chili oil for an added depth of flavor and color contrast. Serving in rustic cast iron skillets at the table makes the experience feel homey and special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, simply transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and place them in the refrigerator. This One Pan Tortellini with Chicken Recipe holds up well for up to 3 days. Store the cheese separately if you plan to add it fresh when reheating to keep it from clumping.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers, although the spinach might change texture slightly upon thawing. Pack the dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This keeps the tortellini tender and prevents the dish from drying out. Microwaving works too but be sure to heat in short bursts and stir in between.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Absolutely! Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time since frozen tortellini will take a bit longer to cook through directly in the sauce.

What other proteins can I substitute for chicken?

If you’re not a fan of chicken, cooked Italian sausage or shrimp works beautifully in this dish, giving it a different flavor profile that’s equally delicious.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream for a coconut cream or cashew cream alternative and use a dairy-free cheese substitute or nutritional yeast to keep things creamy and flavorful.

Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

For sure! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can be sautéed along with the onions to pack in even more flavor and nutrition without overwhelming the sauce.

How spicy is this recipe? Can I omit the red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a subtle hint of heat, so if you prefer a mild dish, feel free to leave them out entirely or reduce the amount to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

This One Pan Tortellini with Chicken Recipe is genuinely a game-changer for anyone who loves simple, hearty meals that are bursting with flavor and require minimal cleanup. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again because it’s reliable, comforting, and downright delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite with your loved ones!

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