Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken is a creamy, indulgent dish that combines the rich flavors of Asiago cheese and Alfredo sauce with tender cheese-filled tortellini and perfectly grilled chicken. This comforting recipe is easy to prepare and offers a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal right at home. With the right balance of creamy texture and savory seasoning, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat. Add the Asiago cheese, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- While the sauce is simmering, heat a separate pan over medium heat. Lightly coat the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and slice it into strips.
- Serve the cooked tortellini on a plate, topped with sliced grilled chicken. Pour the creamy Asiago Alfredo sauce over the top.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the grilled chicken and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.
- Lighter Sauce: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter, less rich sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat and an extra layer of flavor.
- Herb Infusion: For a more aromatic sauce, stir in a teaspoon of fresh thyme or basil.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the tortellini and sauce in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
10 FAQs
- Can I use other types of cheese instead of Asiago? Yes, you can substitute Asiago with Parmesan, Romano, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a slightly different flavor.
- Can I use frozen tortellini? Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well. Be sure to cook it according to the package instructions.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce and grill the chicken ahead of time, then reheat them and combine with the tortellini when ready to serve.
- How can I make the sauce richer? For a richer sauce, you can add more butter or use a combination of heavy cream and mascarpone cheese.
- Can I use boneless, skinless thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier and more flavorful option.
- How can I make the sauce thicker? If the sauce is too thin, simmer it a bit longer to allow it to reduce, or add more grated Asiago cheese to thicken it.
- Can I substitute Italian seasoning with fresh herbs? Yes, fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme can replace Italian seasoning for a more fresh and aromatic taste.
- Is this dish gluten-free? This dish is not gluten-free, as tortellini typically contains gluten. However, you can use gluten-free tortellini to make it gluten-free.
- Can I freeze this dish? While the sauce may freeze well, tortellini may become mushy upon thawing, so it’s best to freeze the sauce separately and cook fresh tortellini when ready to serve.
- How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. Additionally, the juices should run clear, not pink.
Conclusion
Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and perfectly seasoned grilled chicken. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, providing a luxurious meal without the hassle. With its rich sauce, tender tortellini, and savory chicken, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings for comfort food with a gourmet twist.