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
Scale
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
