Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken

This Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken is a rich and creamy dish that combines the delicious flavors of Asiago cheese, garlic, and creamy Alfredo sauce. With the addition of tender grilled chicken, it’s a satisfying and comforting meal that is sure to impress everyone at the dinner table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound cheese tortellini
• 1 cup grated Asiago cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound grilled chicken, sliced

Directions

1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Asiago cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the Asiago tortellini Alfredo topped with sliced grilled chicken.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the grilled chicken and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli for a veggie-packed alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Cheese Substitutes: If Asiago isn’t available, you can substitute it with Parmesan, Romano, or a combination of both.
• Tortellini Variations: Use a different type of stuffed pasta, such as ravioli or a spinach and ricotta-filled tortellini, for variety.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tortellini instead of dry?
   Yes, fresh tortellini cooks much faster, so adjust the cooking time as needed according to the package instructions.
2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before adding the tortellini.
3. What if I don’t have Asiago cheese?
   Parmesan or Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for Asiago, giving the sauce a slightly different but still delicious flavor.
4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
   Yes, sautéed spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes would pair nicely with this creamy pasta.
5. Is this dish gluten-free?
   The tortellini in this recipe is typically made with wheat flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can substitute gluten-free tortellini for a gluten-free option.
6. How can I make the dish lighter?
   You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use a reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter sauce.
7. How do I cook the chicken for this recipe?
   Grill, pan-sear, or bake the chicken, then slice it thinly before topping the pasta. Grilled chicken adds a nice smoky flavor to the dish.
8. Can I freeze this dish?
   While the sauce can freeze, the tortellini may become soft when reheated. It’s best to freeze the sauce separately and cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.
9. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, you can omit the chicken and add in some vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian version.
10. What should I serve with this dish?
    A simple side salad with balsamic vinaigrette and garlic bread would complement this dish perfectly.

Conclusion

Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken is a simple yet luxurious meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, tender grilled chicken, and cheesy tortellini, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, versatile, and incredibly satisfying!

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