Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Alfredo

Buffalo Chicken Tortellini Alfredo is a comforting weeknight dish that brings together spicy buffalo chicken and creamy Alfredo sauce in a single pan The sauce clings to pillowy cheese tortellini and the touch of buffalo sauce brings just the right amount of heat My family cannot get enough of this meal especially when we want something cozy but bold

My first time making this was after a day of nonstop errands and it quickly became one of those dinners the whole family asks for The tangy buffalo chicken is such a fun spin on classic Alfredo

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: select fresh plump chicken for best texture and flavor
• Salt pepper garlic powder: these ensure every bite of chicken is well seasoned from the start
• Flour: helps create a crisp golden crust on the chicken pieces
• Paprika and Italian seasoning: bring warmth and added aroma to the chicken
• Olive oil and butter: this mix gives the chicken a perfect crust while layering in richness
• Minced garlic: use fresh if you can for a sweet mellow taste
• Heavy cream: look for cream with a thick texture not too thin for a lush sauce
• Shredded Parmesan cheese: freshly grated melts smotheringly smooth and flavors the sauce beautifully
• Cheese tortellini: frozen is easiest here just make sure it has plenty of cheese inside for the meltiest results
• Buffalo sauce: choose a milder or bolder buffalo sauce according to your taste Sweet Baby Rays has the right tang and balance
• Dried parsley: fresh is nice too but dried works just fine to finish

Step by Step Instructions

Cut and Season the Chicken:

Pat the chicken breasts dry and cut them into even cubes About one inch pieces are ideal Toss with salt pepper and garlic powder until all coated so that every piece is well seasoned

Dredge the Chicken:

Combine flour with salt pepper garlic powder paprika and Italian seasoning in a shallow bowl or container Dredge chicken cubes in the mixture pressing lightly so the coating sticks well Shake off any excess flour

Brown the Chicken:

Warm the olive oil and a portion of butter together over medium high heat in a large skillet Once the butter foams add the chicken cubes in a single layer Sear on each side for about four to five minutes or until deeply golden and the inside is no longer pink Remove the chicken and set aside wiping any excess grease from the pan for a clean sauce

Make Alfredo Sauce:

Melt one stick of butter in the same skillet over medium heat Add the minced garlic stirring constantly for a minute until fragrant Pour in the heavy cream and keep stirring so nothing sticks Let it get steamy then sprinkle in salt pepper and more Italian seasoning Add the shredded Parmesan cheese slowly stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes extra creamy

Simmer the Tortellini:

Add the frozen cheese tortellini straight into the sauce Stir to coat then cover with a lid and gently simmer for five minutes The tortellini should become plump and tender soaking up some of the sauce

Toss Chicken and Finish:

In a bowl toss the cooked chicken with buffalo sauce ensuring an even coat Spoon the buffalo chicken over the hot tortellini Alfredo Sprinkle over a bit more Parmesan and finish with dried parsley It is ready to serve piping hot

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The cheese tortellini is my favorite part of this meal Every forkful is packed with melty filling and soaks up the spicy creamy sauce My kids always argue over who gets the last pieces of chicken

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge The sauce might thicken more overnight so when reheating on the stove add a splash of milk or cream and heat slowly to loosen it up Microwaving works too but low and slow keeps everything creamy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap in rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken just toss in the flour and seasonings before heating through For a vegetarian spin use sautéed mushrooms or drained chickpeas instead Buffalo sauce can also be switched to barbecue for a different flavor

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this with crisp green salad or roasted broccoli The mild greens help balance the richness of the pasta Try garlic knots or baguette slices to mop up extra sauce For a lighter meal pair with roasted veggies or a simple cucumber salad

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Cultural Context

This dish is the ultimate mashup of Italian American comfort food Classic Alfredo sauce gets a bold American twist thanks to that crowd favorite buffalo hot sauce Bringing together creamy pasta and spicy chicken is pure comfort and a fun blend for anyone craving both cozy and zesty

Recipe FAQs

→ How spicy is buffalo chicken tortellini alfredo?

The level of spice depends on your choice of buffalo sauce. Opt for mild varieties for a gentle kick, or use hot sauce to increase heat.

→ Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh tortellini can be used. It cooks faster, so adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking the pasta.

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?

Cut chicken into even cubes, dredge in seasoned flour, and cook until golden and just cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components in advance. Reheat gently with a splash of cream to maintain the sauce’s texture.

→ Which garnishes pair well?

Finish with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, or even sliced green onions for added flavor and texture.