Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini in Cheesy Velveeta Sauce
Introduction (Short)
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is the ultimate comfort food — juicy, Cajun-spiced chicken paired with tender cheese tortellini, all coated in a velvety, garlicky Velveeta sauce. Every bite is rich, creamy, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thick strips)
1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
For the Sauce and Pasta:
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
4 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp Italian seasoning
2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce Base:
Lower heat to medium, melt the remaining 1 tbsp butter, and add garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Liquids:
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up the browned bits from the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add Cheeses:
Stir in Velveeta cubes until melted and smooth. Gradually add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
Season and Combine:
Add Italian seasoning, adjust salt and pepper. Toss in cooked tortellini until fully coated.
Serve:
Arrange tortellini on a plate, top with chicken, and drizzle extra sauce over both. Garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
How to Make It Perfect
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
For extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Substitute grilled chicken for a smoky flavor.
Variations
Shrimp Tortellini Alfredo: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
Spinach Addition: Add a handful of spinach to the sauce for color and freshness.
Mushroom Cream: Sauté mushrooms with the garlic for extra umami.
Tips
Don’t overcook the tortellini — slightly firm (al dente) keeps it from breaking apart.
Always melt cheese gradually to prevent clumping.
Save a bit of pasta water — it can loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
Conclusion (Short)
Rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy — this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini will quickly become a family favorite. Serve it warm with a side of garlic bread for the perfect indulgent meal.