Short Description
Chicken Alfredo Bacon Tortellini is a rich and creamy pasta dish featuring cheese-filled tortellini, tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a luscious Alfredo sauce. Topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this dish is a perfect balance of comforting flavors and textures. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
- Creamy and cheesy with a smoky bacon flavor
- Uses simple ingredients for a restaurant-quality dish at home
- Perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners
- Easily customizable with different proteins and veggies
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups tortellini, cooked
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Cook the tortellini: Follow the package instructions to cook the tortellini. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the bacon: Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain on a paper towel and crumble into small pieces.
- Heat the Alfredo sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the Alfredo sauce until it starts to simmer.
- Combine ingredients: Add the cooked tortellini, shredded chicken, and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Stir to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and well combined.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and top with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
- Vegetable Addition: Mix in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or Italian sausage for a different twist.
- Lighter Option: Use a homemade lighter Alfredo sauce with milk instead of heavy cream.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix in some mozzarella cheese for an extra gooey texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream-based sauce may separate when thawed.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes, store-bought Alfredo sauce works well, but you can also make homemade Alfredo for a fresher taste.
What type of tortellini should I use?
Cheese-filled tortellini is the best option, but you can also use spinach and cheese or meat-filled tortellini.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe and adds extra flavor.
How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much, add a small amount of milk or pasta water to thin it out.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon is a great alternative for a lighter version of this dish.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat with a splash of milk before serving.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can use gluten-free tortellini and ensure the Alfredo sauce is gluten-free.
How can I make the dish more flavorful?
Add garlic, Italian seasoning, or a splash of white wine to enhance the flavors.
Can I make this without bacon?
Yes, you can omit the bacon or replace it with crispy pancetta for a similar taste.
Conclusion
Chicken Alfredo Bacon Tortellini is a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With tender pasta, rich Alfredo sauce, and crispy bacon, this meal is a comforting option for any occasion. Whether you serve it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
Print
Chicken Alfredo Bacon Tortellini
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Chicken Alfredo Bacon Tortellini is a rich, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Loaded with tender tortellini, shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and Parmesan, it’s a comforting meal that comes together in minutes!
Ingredients
- 2 cups tortellini, cooked
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
-
Cook the Tortellini:
- Boil tortellini according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
-
Prepare the Chicken & Bacon:
- If not already cooked, shred or dice the chicken.
- Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble it.
-
Combine Everything:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the Alfredo sauce.
- Add in the shredded chicken, cooked tortellini, and crumbled bacon. Stir to coat everything in the sauce.
-
Add Cheese & Serve:
- Stir in grated Parmesan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until everything is heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra bacon bits.
-
Enjoy!
- Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Swap tortellini for pasta if desired.
- Use grilled, rotisserie, or leftover chicken for a quick meal.
- For extra flavor, add garlic powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
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