Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo
If you’re a lover of rich, creamy pasta dishes, then prepare to be enchanted by the irresistible combination of asiago tortellini, tender chicken, and a luscious alfredo sauce. This recipe is a true flavor explosion, blending the comforting familiarity of classic alfredo with the delightful twist of cheese-filled tortellini and juicy chicken. Get ready to indulge in a dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite!
This Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo is the perfect fusion of Italian and American cuisine, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. With its creamy sauce, al dente pasta, and tender chicken, it’s a meal that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
What sets this Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo apart from other pasta dishes is the delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The chewy, cheese-filled tortellini provides a delightful al dente bite, while the tender chicken adds a juicy, protein-packed element. The creamy, velvety alfredo sauce ties it all together, creating a symphony of textures that will have you coming back for more.
Another reason to love this recipe is its accessibility. With simple, readily available ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings. Plus, the make-ahead possibilities make it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining, as you can assemble it in advance and simply bake when ready to serve.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo ❓
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (15 oz) alfredo sauce
• 1 cup shredded asiago cheese
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
The beauty of this Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of cheese-filled tortellini, tender chicken, and a creamy alfredo sauce creates the Italian-inspired flavor profile that has made pasta bake recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and garlic, and sauté until the chicken is cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
• Step 3: Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, sautéed chicken, and alfredo sauce. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Step 5: Transfer the tortellini-chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top evenly with the shredded asiago and parmesan cheeses.
• Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes
Compared to traditional baked ziti or lasagna, which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo saves you 20% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 1,160mg
These Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo provide approximately 35% of your daily protein requirements and 25% of your daily carbohydrate needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Substitute the tortellini with low-carb or zucchini noodles, and use a cauliflower-based alfredo sauce.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Replace the alfredo sauce with a cashew-based or coconut milk-based alternative, and use dairy-free cheese substitutes.
• Added protein: Increase the chicken portion or add cooked, crumbled bacon or sautéed mushrooms for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Sauté spinach, broccoli, or roasted red peppers and mix them into the dish for added nutrition and fiber.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 25% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a crisp, white wine or a light, fruity red for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
• Complement the dish with a simple tomato and basil salad for a pop of freshness.
• For a family-style dinner, serve the Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo alongside roasted vegetables and a loaf of crusty bread.
• Create an impressive appetizer platter by portioning the dish into individual ramekins and garnishing with fresh herbs.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Not sautéing the chicken properly: Taking the time to sauté the chicken until it’s fully cooked through ensures a tender, juicy texture in the final dish.
• Skimping on the cheese: The generous sprinkle of asiago and parmesan cheeses on top creates a delightful golden-brown crust that’s essential to the dish.
• Forgetting to let it rest: Allowing the Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo to cool for a few minutes before serving helps the sauce thicken and the flavors meld together.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Assemble the dish as directed, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked dish to cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for make-ahead preparation. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Can I substitute the chicken with a different protein?
Yes, you can easily swap the chicken for other proteins, such as shrimp, Italian sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and technique accordingly. For example, shrimp would only need a few minutes of sautéing, while Italian sausage may need to be browned and crumbled before adding to the dish.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
To make a dairy-free version of the Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo, you can use a cashew-based or coconut milk-based alfredo sauce, and substitute the cheese with dairy-free alternatives, such as shredded cashew-based mozzarella or almond-based parmesan. These substitutions can be found at most well-stocked grocery stores or specialty health food markets.
Why is my Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo turning out dry?
If your Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo is turning out dry, there are a few potential culprits. Make sure you’re not overcooking the pasta, as this can cause it to become dry and tough. Additionally, ensure that you’re using the full amount of alfredo sauce specified in the recipe, as this creamy sauce is essential for keeping the dish moist and flavorful. Finally, be cautious not to overbake the casserole, as this can also contribute to a dry texture.
Can I add any extra ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! The Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo is a great canvas for a variety of additions. Some tasty options include sautéed mushrooms, diced sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach or kale, roasted red peppers, or even a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits. Just be mindful of not overloading the dish, as you want to maintain the delicate balance of flavors and textures.
Conclusion
These Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, they’re sure to delight with their creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly. So, gather your loved ones, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a dish that’s destined to become a new family favorite.
Print
Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
• 1 package (19 oz) cheese tortellini
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (15 oz) alfredo sauce
• 1 cup shredded asiago cheese
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and garlic, and sauté until the chicken is cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
• Step 3: Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, sautéed chicken, and alfredo sauce. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Step 5: Transfer the tortellini-chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top evenly with the shredded asiago and parmesan cheeses.
• Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: Americans
Keywords: Asiago Tortellini Chicken Alfredo
