Go Back
Delicious Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini dish served on a plate

Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini

A delicious twist on classic pasta, this Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini combines tender chicken, creamy cheese tortellini, and vibrant vegetables in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for any dinner occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Protein
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces and season.
Starch/Pasta
  • 9 oz cheese tortellini Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
  • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes Adjust according to taste.
  • salt and black pepper to taste Season chicken before cooking.
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
Liquids/Dairy
  • ¾ cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half.
  • 4 tbsp butter Use for the sauce.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese For creamy flavor in the sauce.
Aromatics & Vegetables
  • 3 cloves minced garlic Fresh garlic preferred.
  • ½ cup chopped fire-roasted red peppers Adds color and flavor.
Optional Finishing Ingredients
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley Stir in before serving.
  • ½ juiced lemon lemon juice To brighten the dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
  2. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking
  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Add butter and garlic, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and squeeze in lemon juice to deglaze the pan.
  6. Pour in heavy cream and add Parmesan cheese, stirring until creamy.
  7. Cook tortellini according to package instructions and drain.
  8. Add cooked tortellini and chopped peppers to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
  9. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Can customize with different proteins or pasta types. Serve with garlic bread or salad for a full meal.