Creamy Chipotle Chicken Tortellini Skillet

If you’re craving a dish that combines comfort food with a smoky, spicy kick, the Creamy Chipotle Chicken Tortellini Skillet is exactly what you need. This one-pan wonder is packed with tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a luscious chipotle cream sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests, blending smoky chipotle peppers with creamy textures and a hint of sweetness from corn to create a dish that’s truly unforgettable.

Why This Recipe Works

This skillet meal is a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors. The cheese tortellini adds a delightful pillowy texture that pairs beautifully with the succulent, diced chicken breast. Using chipotle peppers in adobo sauce infuses the dish with smoky heat without overpowering the palate. The heavy cream and chicken broth come together to create a rich sauce that coats every bite, while the sweet corn and paprika add subtle layers of flavor and color. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, which means minimal cleanup and maximum taste. This recipe is both satisfying and straightforward, making it a staple for busy cooks who want something delicious on the table fast.

What We’re Using

• 2 cups cheese tortellini: Fresh or frozen tortellini works perfectly for creamy, cheesy bites.
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced: Tender chicken pieces provide lean protein and heartiness.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and aromatics.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for savory flavor foundations.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the rich, velvety base of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced: Brings smoky, spicy heat.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and intensifies savory notes.
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned: Adds sweetness and texture contrast.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Enhances color and smoky undertones.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and elevates all the flavors.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For extra cheesy indulgence and topping.
• Fresh cilantro for garnish: Brightens the dish with herbal freshness.

Essential Tools for Success

• Large skillet or sauté pan: A wide pan ensures even cooking and plenty of space for stirring.
• Sharp knife: For neatly dicing the chicken and chopping aromatics.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To get ingredient quantities just right.
• Colander (optional): If using frozen tortellini that requires draining.

Creamy Chipotle Chicken Tortellini Skillet Made Stepwise

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoning it lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This builds a flavorful base for your sauce.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze and lift any browned bits. Stir in the heavy cream, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, and paprika. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add Tortellini and Corn

Toss in the cheese tortellini and corn. If using frozen tortellini, no need to pre-cook; they will cook in the sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta and corn with the creamy chipotle sauce. Cover and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini are tender.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Cheese

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet once again for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the flavors to come together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese is melted and the dish is creamy and bubbling, remove from heat. Garnish generously with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and brightness. Serve hot and enjoy the perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and creamy in every bite.

Year-Round Variations

• Swap chicken breast for turkey to try a lighter protein option.
• Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra freshness and heat.
• Use spinach or kale stirred in at the end for a boost of greens.
• For a smoky-sweet twist, mix in some diced pineapple or mango.
• Try substituting cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

What Not to Do

• Don’t overcook the tortellini; it should be tender but not mushy.
• Avoid skipping the deglazing step—it’s key for flavor depth.
• Don’t add the cheese too early, or it might separate instead of melting smoothly.
• Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper toward the end for balanced seasoning.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

This dish stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as needed. While freezing is possible, the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, so reheating gently and stirring well is key. For best results, consume fresh or refrigerated.

Popular Questions

Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, but dried tortellini will require a longer cooking time and may need to be boiled separately before adding to the skillet. Fresh or frozen tortellini is recommended for the best texture and convenience.

How spicy is this Creamy Chipotle Chicken Tortellini Skillet?

The chipotle peppers in adobo provide a smoky heat that is moderately spicy but can be adjusted by varying the amount used. If you prefer less heat, reduce the chipotle amount or remove seeds before mincing.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter sauce, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. Coconut cream is another alternative if you want a dairy-free version with a slightly different flavor.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add plant-based protein alternatives to keep it filling.

Next Up in Your Queue

• For a comforting twist on a classic, try One Pan Tex Mex Chicken And Rice—it’s an easy skillet meal with bold flavors.
• If you love chipotle flavors, the Maple Chipotle Turkey Meatloaf is a wonderful way to enjoy smoky heat with a hint of sweetness.

Before You Go

Make sure to save this recipe for nights when you want something quick, comforting, and packed with flavor. The creamy sauce, smoky chipotle, and cheesy tortellini work together to create a meal that everyone will ask for again and again. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this skillet dinner is an easy crowd-pleaser that balances spice and creaminess perfectly.

The Creamy Chipotle Chicken Tortellini Skillet is a delicious way to bring warmth and zest to your dinner table. Enjoy the rich, smoky sauce coating every bite of tender chicken and cheesy pasta—comfort food elevated with a spicy twist that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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