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Homemade Creamy Chipotle Chicken Tortellini Skillet photo

Creamy Chipotle Chicken Tortellini Skillet

This Creamy Chipotle Chicken Tortellini Skillet is a smoky, spicy, and cheesy one-pan wonder perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Tex Mex
Keyword: Chicken, Comfort Food, Creamy, Easy, One-Pan, Quick, Spicy
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cheese tortellini fresh or frozen
  • 1 pound chicken breast diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup corn frozen or canned
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
  • fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Instructions

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Sharp Knife
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander (optional)

Notes

  • Swap chicken breast for turkey or vegetables for a lighter or vegetarian option.
  • Don’t overcook tortellini to keep it tender but not mushy.
  • Use fresh or frozen tortellini for best texture; dried requires separate boiling.
  • Adjust chipotle peppers amount to control spiciness.
  • Store leftovers refrigerated up to 3 days; reheat gently with added broth or cream to loosen sauce.