Go Back
–+ servings
Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini

Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini for Cozy Nights

Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini is a comfort dish featuring chicken, tortellini, and a creamy garlic sauce, ready in 30 minutes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts Adds protein and texture; substitute with shrimp or steak for alternative proteins.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil For sautéing the chicken; can be replaced with butter or a different cooking oil if needed.
  • Salt and black pepper Enhances flavor; adjust to taste.
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika Adds smokiness to the chicken; regular paprika can be used as a milder alternative.
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder Provides additional garlic flavor; fresh garlic can be used for a fresher taste.
For the Cowboy Butter Sauce
  • 4 tbsp butter Forms the base of the cowboy butter sauce; can substitute with a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the sauce with a robust garlic flavor; increase the amount for an extra kick.
  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes Adds spice; adjust quantity to taste for milder or hotter versions.
  • ½ lemon Juice Brings brightness to the sauce; can substitute with vinegar for acidity.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard Adds tang and depth; yellow mustard can be used in a pinch.
  • ½ tsp onion powder Provides subtle flavor; fresh onion may also work but will change the texture.
  • ½ tsp dried thyme For herbal flavor; fresh thyme can be substituted if available.
For the Pasta and Cream
  • 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini The core component of the dish; fresh or refrigerated tortellini is recommended; dried pasta can be used as well.
  • ¾ cup heavy cream Creates a rich sauce; substitute half with milk for a lighter version.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds creaminess and depth; nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option.
  • ½ cup chopped fire-roasted red peppers Provides sweetness and smokiness; roasted red bell peppers are a great substitute.
For Garnish
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley Adds color and freshness; use basil or cilantro for different flavor accents.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package directions until al dente, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Once done, drain the tortellini and set it aside, allowing any remaining water to evaporate as you prepare the rest of the Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini.
  2. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, coating them evenly. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest, then slice it into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, scraping up any brown bits from the chicken for flavor. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them. Mix in ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, the juice of ½ lemon, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon dried thyme, allowing the mixture to cook for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Pour in ¾ cup of heavy cream, and gently stir in ½ cup of chopped fire-roasted red peppers. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and takes on a rich, creamy texture that perfectly complements the Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini.
  5. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, then gently add the cooked tortellini. Toss everything together until the tortellini and chicken are well-coated in the luscious sauce. Sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet, stirring until melted and creamy. If the sauce needs thinning, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
  6. Spoon the Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini onto plates and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. For an extra burst of freshness, squeeze a little lemon juice over the top before serving. This delightful dish is now ready to enjoy, encapsulating the warmth and comfort of a homemade meal!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store any remaining Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently with a splash of cream to maintain texture.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!