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One-Pot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini

A quick, flavor-packed dinner featuring tender chicken and cheesy tortellini in a spicy garlic butter sauce, all made in one pot for minimal cleanup.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb chicken breast or thighs Cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • 1 pkg fresh cheese tortellini Do not use dried pasta.
  • 4 cloves garlic Minced.
  • 4 tbsp butter Use good quality butter.
  • 2 cups chicken broth For the sauce.
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1 juice lemon To be added at the end.
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 cup spinach Add at the very end for greenery.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan Sprinkle on top before serving.
  • 1 cup diced zucchini or bell peppers Optional for added veggies.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Chop up the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  2. In a big skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
Cooking
  1. Add the chicken to the skillet and brown it, allowing it to develop color without stirring too much.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  3. Add the tortellini to the skillet, cover and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the tortellini is cooked and the sauce has thickened.
  4. Optional: If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or milk at the end.
  5. Before serving, stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Notes

For variations, you can reduce the red pepper flakes for less heat, or substitute with sweet paprika. Other add-ins include sun-dried tomatoes or cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.