Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken

This OnePot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini has become one of my favorite meals whenever I want something indulgent yet comforting. The creamy garlic butter sauce with a spicy kick wraps the tender chicken and soft tortellini perfectly, making it a satisfying dinner that comes together in no time and with minimal cleanup.

I first made this during a hectic weeknight, and now it’s on regular rotation because of how quickly and effortlessly it comes together without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs or breasts: A juicy source of protein that keeps the dish hearty thighs stay tender and moist while breasts offer a leaner option
• Fresh tortellini: Soft, tender, and quick to cook cheesefilled varieties balance the spice with creamy richness but meat or spinachfilled ones add interesting depth
• Garlic: Essential for that fragrant, aromatic backbone to the sauce fresh garlic delivers far better flavor than preminced
• Butter: The luxurious base of the sauce that carries all the flavors and lends creaminess
• Crushed red pepper flakes: The element that brings the perfect amount of heat adjust based on your spice tolerance
• Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps cook the tortellini through in the sauce
• Heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky texture that clings to the pasta and chicken
• Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, nutty richness and melts into the sauce to unify everything
• Fresh herbs like basil or parsley: Brighten the dish at the end with their freshness cutting through the richness
• Salt and black pepper: Simply bring all the flavors to life and balance the dish

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken:

Season your chicken pieces well with salt and black pepper. In a large pot over mediumhigh heat melt a generous pat of butter and cook the chicken until it’s golden on the outside and cooked through. Remove and set aside so the flavorful fond can be used for the next steps.

Step 2: Make the Spicy Garlic Butter Base:

Add a little more butter to the same pot if necessary. Toss in minced garlic and cook it gently for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes and stir so their spicy oils infuse the butter.

Step 3: Build the Sauce:

Pour in the chicken broth and let it come to a simmer while scraping up those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and watch the sauce gradually thicken and smooth out.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini:

Add fresh tortellini straight into the simmering sauce. Let them cook gently for about 4 to 6 minutes until tender and fully coated in the creamy, spicy sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Finish with Chicken and Cheese:

Return the cooked chicken to the pot and combine everything thoroughly. Sprinkle a generous handful of grated Parmesan on top letting it melt into the sauce for a glossy irresistible finish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve:

Turn off the heat. Toss in fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add brightness and a pop of color. Stir well then serve immediately with extra Parmesan and a little more crushed red pepper if you want an added kick.

The Parmesan cheese is my favorite finishing touch because it melts right into the sauce giving it a smooth, salty richness that pulls everything together. One memorable night, my family declared this their new favorite and asked me to make it again the very next day. It’s proof that a simple, wellbalanced meal can bring everyone to the table with smiles.

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken can be swapped for shrimp, turkey, or tofu for variety. Frozen tortellini works but add a couple minutes to cooking time. Butter can be replaced with ghee or a vegan alternative for dairyfree needs. Heavy cream can be swapped for halfandhalf or coconut cream for a lighter or dairyfree option. Herbs like thyme or oregano add a different flavor profile if basil or parsley are not on hand.

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate up to three days or freeze for up to one month. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce and revive creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce. Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus bring freshness and texture contrast. A chilled glass of white wine cuts through the buttery sauce and complements the spicy notes beautifully.

The OnePot Spicy Garlic Butter Chicken Tortellini is a fantastic combination of ease, comfort, and flavor. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and again because it hits all the right notes without any fuss.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen tortellini works well but requires a few extra minutes to cook through compared to fresh varieties.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute butter with dairy-free alternatives and use coconut cream or plant-based cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for cheesy notes.

→ What are good protein substitutes for chicken?

Try shrimp, tofu, turkey, or plant-based meat substitutes, adjusting cooking times to match the protein choice.

→ How do I control the spice level?

Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to taste — reduce for mild heat or add hot sauce for extra spice.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Garlic bread, simple green salads, roasted vegetables, or a crisp glass of white wine complement the rich, creamy flavors nicely.

→ How to reheat without drying it out?

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.