Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe
If you’ve been dreaming of a creamy, dreamy pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of cheese with perfectly grilled chicken, then look no further than this Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings together tender cheese tortellini enveloped in a luscious Asiago-infused Alfredo sauce, topped with juicy grilled chicken strips that add that irresistible smoky touch. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish feels special but is surprisingly simple to make, turning any dinner into a memorable feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe. From the creamy richness of the heavy cream to the subtle tang of Asiago cheese, every item contributes to making this dish truly mouthwatering.
- 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated): The star pasta choice that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For brushing the chicken and adding a light, healthy fat layer before grilling.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Protein-packed and perfect for grilling to add smoky flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that boosts savory notes on the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the depth of flavor without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat to the chicken seasoning and sauce.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base for your velvety Alfredo sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic freshness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Gives your Alfredo sauce its rich, creamy texture.
- ¾ cup grated Asiago cheese: The star cheese that delivers a sharp, nutty bite.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth and silkiness.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Seasoning the sauce to perfection.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, colorful touch to brighten the final dish.
How to Make Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Start by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Fresh or refrigerated tortellini work beautifully here, so just boil until tender and then drain well. Set it aside while you prepare the rest, because this is the base that will soak up all that decadent Alfredo goodness.
Step 2: Prepare and Grill the Chicken
Brush your boneless, skinless chicken breasts with olive oil to keep them juicy and prevent sticking. Sprinkle the chicken evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for a flavor-packed crust. Heat up a grill pan or outdoor grill on medium and cook each side for 5 to 6 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is delightfully charred. Let it rest a few minutes so the juices redistribute, then slice into juicy strips ready to top your pasta.
Step 3: Make the Asiago Alfredo Sauce
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and toss in the minced garlic, letting it sauté for about a minute. The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter is already making your kitchen feel like an Italian trattoria! Next, pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated Asiago and Parmesan cheeses, whisking continuously until your sauce turns into a smooth, thick, creamy masterpiece. Add black pepper and taste to adjust seasoning. This luxurious sauce is the heart of your Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Toss the drained tortellini in the creamy Alfredo sauce, making sure every piece is coated in cheesy heaven. Plate the pasta and generously top with your grilled chicken strips. If you like, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top to add a refreshing hint of color and brightness that cuts through the richness.
How to Serve Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like chopped parsley or freshly cracked black pepper elevates this dish instantly. The parsley offers a pop of green that complements the creamy white sauce beautifully, while a dusting of extra Asiago or Parmesan cheese can pump up the cheesy factor if you’re feeling indulgent.
Side Dishes
This sumptuous Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli. These sides balance the richness while adding freshness and a delightful crunch to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try serving this dish in individual shallow bowls with the grilled chicken artfully fanned on top. Drizzle a little extra olive oil or a squeeze of lemon over the chicken for a zesty finish. You could even garnish with toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, transfer your Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe to an airtight container and refrigerate. The dish will keep well for up to 3 days, though the sauce’s texture might thicken, which is easily fixed when reheating.
Freezing
While the tortellini Alfredo sauce doesn’t freeze perfectly due to the cream, you can freeze the grilled chicken separately for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken overnight and gently rewarm while preparing fresh sauce and tortellini for best results.
Reheating
The best way to reheat this dish is on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and stir gently until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it may cause the sauce to separate.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making my own?
Absolutely! Store-bought Alfredo sauce can save time, but making the Asiago cheese sauce from scratch really brings out the distinctive sharp and nutty flavors that make this particular recipe stand out.
What other proteins can I use besides grilled chicken?
Shrimp, sautéed mushrooms, or even Italian sausage make fantastic alternatives that pair wonderfully with this creamy pasta and keep the dish exciting.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the grilled chicken and add flavorful veggies like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers to keep it hearty and delicious.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can grill the chicken a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Also, grate your cheeses beforehand to speed up the cooking process when it’s time to assemble.
What type of Asiago cheese should I use?
For this recipe, fresh Asiago cheese (the softer, younger variety) works best because it melts smoothly and contributes a milder, creamier taste that blends perfectly with Parmesan.
Final Thoughts
This Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe is a delightful blend of creamy sauce, tender pasta, and smoky grilled chicken that feels both comforting and special. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want to impress with minimal fuss. I can’t recommend trying this recipe enough—you’ll soon find it becoming a beloved favorite in your pasta rotation!
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Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian (without chicken)
Description
This Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken is a rich and creamy Italian-American main dish featuring cheese tortellini tossed in a decadent Asiago and Parmesan Alfredo sauce, topped with tender grilled chicken breast strips. It combines the comforting flavors of garlic, butter, and cheese with a perfectly grilled protein, making it a satisfying meal for any pasta lover.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Asiago cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare and Grill the Chicken: Brush the chicken breasts on both sides with olive oil, then season evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium heat. Grill the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reads 165°F and the meat is cooked through. Remove from grill and allow to rest a few minutes before slicing into strips.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: 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. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Gradually whisk in the grated Asiago and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Stir in the black pepper, and taste to adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked tortellini directly into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Serve: Plate the creamy tortellini and top with the sliced grilled chicken strips. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute grilled shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for the chicken for alternative protein options.
- For extra richness and color, stir in a handful of fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the Alfredo sauce just before adding the tortellini.
- Use fresh or refrigerated tortellini for optimal texture; frozen may require extra cooking time.
- Grill the chicken outdoors or inside using a grill pan depending on availability and preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
