Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken

Quick Benefits

Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken is a rich and creamy dish that brings together cheesy tortellini, grilled chicken, and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce. This restaurant-quality meal is easy to make at home and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal. The combination of Parmesan and Asiago cheese creates an ultra-savory depth of flavor, while the crispy breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch.

Essential Ingredients

To make this indulgent dish, gather the following ingredients:

For the Tortellini Base:

• 20 ounces refrigerated five-cheese tortellini
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Italian herb seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Grilled Chicken:

• 1 1/2 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast cutlets

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 6 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Topping:

• 3 tablespoons seasoned bread crumbs
• 3 tablespoons Asiago cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Tortellini

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and place it in a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
4. Coat the chicken breast cutlets with the seasoned oil.
5. Heat a grill to 425-450°F and cook the chicken for 7-8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

7. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
8. Add minced garlic and garlic powder, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.
9. Sprinkle in flour, whisking until fully absorbed.
10. Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
11. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
12. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

13. Pour the Alfredo sauce over the cooked tortellini in the baking dish.
14. In a small bowl, mix seasoned bread crumbs, shredded Asiago cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.
15. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
16. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

17. Slice the grilled chicken and arrange it over the baked tortellini.
18. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: Chicken and cheese provide a good source of protein for muscle growth and energy.
• Calcium Boost: Parmesan and Asiago cheese are rich in calcium, supporting bone health.
• Balanced Flavors: The mix of herbs and spices enhances flavor without excessive sodium.
• Customizable: Adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes boosts the fiber and nutrient content.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Side Salad: A light arugula or Caesar salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Serve with Garlic Bread: A crispy garlic baguette is perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
• Add a Glass of Wine: White wines like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complement the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Spicy Option: Serve with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Creative Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Mix in mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Seafood Twist: Replace chicken with grilled shrimp or salmon.
• Extra Cheese Flavor: Add shredded mozzarella on top for a cheesier bake.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap tortellini for zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Pro Tips

• Let the Chicken Rest: Resting chicken for 5 minutes before slicing keeps it juicy.
• Whisk Constantly: Prevent lumps in the Alfredo sauce by whisking continuously.
• Don’t Overbake: Bake until just golden, as overcooking can dry out the dish.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-packaged versions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Just cook it according to the package instructions before assembling the dish.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

3. What can I substitute for Asiago cheese?
Try Pecorino Romano, Gruyère, or extra Parmesan for a similar flavor.

4. Can I make this without grilling?
Yes! Sauté the chicken in a pan over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side.

5. How do I keep my Alfredo sauce from getting too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen it.

Enjoy your Asiago Tortellini Alfredo with Grilled Chicken—a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion!

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