If you have been searching for a comforting yet elegant dish that comes together quickly and satisfies everyone at the table, then you absolutely must try this Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe. It perfectly balances the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with the hearty bite of grilled chicken and the delightful flavor of Asiago cheese, making every forkful a little celebration. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this dish brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of indulgence to your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on a handful of simple, quality ingredients that each play a vital role in creating flavor, texture, and color. From the tender cheese tortellini to the sharp Asiago cheese, everything comes together to make an unforgettable meal.
- 2 cups cooked grilled chicken (sliced): Adds smoky, tender protein that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini: Provides a soft, cheesy base that holds on to the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a rich foundation for the Alfredo sauce and enhances its smoothness.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and savory notes.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the sauce that signature creamy, luxurious texture.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Lightens the cream slightly while keeping it rich and velvety.
- 3/4 cup grated Asiago cheese: Brings a nutty, tangy brightness that defines this dish’s unique character.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds extra umami and helps the sauce come together smoothly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional): Offers a hint of herbal warmth if you want to add a subtle complexity.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh pop of green color and brightness at the end.
How to Make Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Start by preparing the tortellini according to the package instructions in salted boiling water. This ensures the pasta is perfectly tender but still holds its shape, making it the ideal canvas for the sauce. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside while you prepare the Alfredo sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about one minute until it becomes fragrant, taking care not to let it burn. This step infuses the butter with a lovely garlic aroma that will carry through the entire dish.
Step 3: Create the Alfredo Sauce Base
Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring gently as the mixture comes to a gentle simmer. This combination strikes a perfect balance, making the sauce rich but not overly heavy. Keep an eye on the heat to prevent the cream from boiling vigorously.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses and Season
Reduce the heat to low and slowly whisk in the grated Asiago and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and silky smooth. This is where the sauce really develops its signature cheesy depth. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if using, tasting as you go to make sure it’s perfectly balanced.
Step 5: Combine Tortellini and Chicken
Add the cooked tortellini and sliced grilled chicken to the skillet, gently stirring to coat everything evenly in that luxurious sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to heat through, giving you a chance to let all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy this ultimate blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness.
How to Serve Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the star garnish here, adding a burst of color and a hint of brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce. If you want to get fancy, a light grating of extra Asiago cheese or a squeeze of lemon can also elevate the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that won’t overshadow it. Consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for added texture and nutrition. Garlic bread is always a winner for soaking up every last bit of that creamy Alfredo.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, try serving the Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe in shallow bowls to keep the sauce front and center. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or cracked black pepper on top adds a sophisticated finish that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, but keep in mind the sauce will thicken as it chills, so a quick reheat with a splash of milk is recommended.
Freezing
While you can freeze the dish, keep in mind that Alfredo sauce tends to change texture after freezing. It’s best to freeze the cooked tortellini and grilled chicken separately without sauce, then make a fresh Alfredo sauce when ready to serve for optimum creaminess and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back that luscious silky sauce. Avoid microwave reheating at high power, as it can cause the sauce to separate or become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken is a convenient shortcut that still delivers great flavor and texture. Just slice it thinly and add it in step 5.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for a delicious vegetarian take that still feels hearty and satisfying.
What can I substitute if I can’t find Asiago cheese?
Parmesan or Pecorino Romano can work well as substitutes, though Asiago provides a distinctive nutty and sharp flavor that makes the dish stand out.
How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from breaking or curdling?
Keep the heat low when adding the cream and cheese, and whisk continuously to combine everything smoothly. Avoid boiling the sauce vigorously to maintain its creamy texture.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free cheese tortellini and ensuring any seasoning blends are gluten-free, this dish can easily adapt to a gluten-free diet without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe, it may just become your go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Its creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender grilled chicken creates a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat!
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Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken is a rich and creamy Italian-American main course featuring cheese tortellini tossed in a luscious Asiago and Parmesan Alfredo sauce, combined with tender grilled chicken for a satisfying and flavorful dinner perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked grilled chicken (sliced)
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup grated Asiago cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini according to package directions, typically about 3-5 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, releasing its aromatic flavor into the butter.
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and whole milk into the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, then whisk in the grated Asiago and Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously until they have fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, and the optional Italian seasoning to the sauce, adjusting flavors to your preference for a balanced creamy taste.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked tortellini and sliced grilled chicken to the skillet, carefully stirring to coat all pieces evenly with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Heat Through: Let the skillet simmer for 2–3 minutes, ensuring the dish is heated through and the flavors meld together harmoniously.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness, and serve the tortellini Alfredo warm for best enjoyment.
Notes
- Use leftover or store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time and add convenience.
- For a vegetarian-friendly twist, omit the chicken and add sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli before serving to incorporate nutritious vegetables.
