If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy Alfredo sauce, cheesy tortellini, and juicy grilled chicken, this baked Asiago tortellini Alfredo with grilled chicken is your new go-to recipe. It’s easy to prepare yet tastes like a dish straight out of your favorite Italian restaurant. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Asiago Tortellini Alfredo
This dish is the perfect blend of rich, cheesy flavors and satisfying textures, making it a standout choice for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Here’s what makes it irresistible:
Velvety Alfredo Sauce
The Alfredo sauce is made with a simple combination of Asiago cheese, heavy cream, and butter to create a sauce that’s silky, smooth, and indulgently creamy. The nutty flavor of Asiago adds depth, while the butter guarantees a luxurious texture that coats every piece of pasta.
Grilled Chicken
Perfectly seasoned and grilled chicken adds a juicy, smoky flavor that balances the richness of the Alfredo sauce. The chicken provides a satisfying protein boost, making the dish more substantial and well-rounded.
Cheese-Stuffed Tortellini
Tender, cheese-filled tortellini or tortelloni create the ideal base for the creamy sauce. Whether stuffed with Asiago cheese, four-cheese, or ricotta and spinach, the pasta brings layers of flavor and texture to the dish.
Looking for More Comforting Desserts?
To complete your meal, pair this rich and satisfying dish with a light or indulgent dessert. Here are some options that complement the cheesy, creamy flavors of baked tortellini Alfredo:
- Lemon Sorbet: A light, refreshing option that cleanses the palate and balances the richness of the pasta.
- Classic Tiramisu: Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and cocoa powder make this Italian favorite a perfect match.
- Pumpkin Banana Loaf: Soft, moist, and bursting with warm spices, this loaf brings a cozy sweetness to the table.
- Chocolate Mousse: A silky, airy chocolate dessert that’s indulgent but not heavy.
- Panna Cotta with Berries: This creamy, light custard topped with fresh berries adds a pop of color and flavor.
With its indulgent flavors and perfect pairings, this baked Asiago tortellini Alfredo is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Pair it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, and one of these comforting desserts to create a well-rounded, restaurant-quality meal at home!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Tortellini or Tortelloni:
- 500 g of Asiago-filled tortellini (or substitute with four-cheese or chicken-stuffed tortellini).
- Grilled Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 300-350 g total).
- Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (5 g) garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon (2 g) chili flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Asiago Cheese:
- 100 g of grated Asiago cheese.
- Substitute with 100 g Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano if needed.
- Heavy Cream and Butter:
- 250 ml of heavy cream (35% fat, also known as whipping cream).
- 50 g of unsalted butter.
- Breadcrumbs:
- 50 g of panko breadcrumbs.
- Mix with 2 tablespoons (30 g) melted unsalted butter.
- Herbs for Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons (5-10 g) of freshly chopped parsley or chives.
Looking for more baked goods to round out your menu? Check out this Pumpkin Banana Loaf for a moist and flavorful dessert.
How to Make Baked Tortellini Alfredo with Chicken
1. Prepare the Grilled Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili flakes.
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
2. Cook the Tortellini
- Boil a large pot of salted water.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 7-8 minutes).
- Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in Asiago cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Combine and Bake
- Preheat the oven to broil.
- Toss the cooked tortellini in the Alfredo sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Top with sliced grilled chicken.
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the dish. Add shredded mozzarella cheese for an extra-cheesy finish.
- Broil for 4-5 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
5. Serve and Garnish
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
- Serve immediately for a warm, satisfying meal.
Variations for Asiago Alfredo Tortellini
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted broccoli.
- Lighter Alfredo: Use evaporated milk instead of heavy cream for a lower-fat version.
- Protein Swaps: Replace grilled chicken with shrimp, sausage, or tofu.
What to Serve with Baked Asiago Tortellini Alfredo
This creamy, cheesy pasta dish pairs perfectly with lighter sides that balance its richness and add texture or freshness to the meal. Here are some excellent ideas:
1. Garlic Bread or Breadsticks
- A warm, buttery side like garlic bread or soft breadsticks is a classic pairing. It’s perfect for soaking up the extra Alfredo sauce, making every bite indulgent.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs over the bread before toasting.
2. Fresh Salads
A crisp, fresh salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tortellini Alfredo:
- Caesar Salad: Romaine lettuce with a creamy Caesar dressing, Parmesan shavings, and croutons.
- Simple Mixed Greens: Combine arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Dress it with a lemon vinaigrette for brightness.
- Spinach and Strawberry Salad: Fresh spinach paired with sliced strawberries, almonds, and a balsamic glaze.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables bring both color and nutrients to your plate:
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast until tender. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roast with bacon bits or honey glaze for a sweet-savory combination.
- Broccoli or Cauliflower: Lightly charred and seasoned with garlic and herbs for extra flavor.
4. Sautéed or Steamed Greens
Quick, light sides like greens balance the richness of the pasta:
- Sautéed Spinach: Cook fresh spinach in olive oil and garlic until wilted. Add a squeeze of lemon for freshness.
- Steamed Green Beans: Toss with a little butter and toasted almonds for texture.
- Swiss Chard: Lightly sautéed with garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil.
5. Light Soups
If you’re serving this as part of a multi-course meal, a light soup pairs beautifully:
- Tomato Basil Soup: A smooth and tangy soup that offsets the creaminess of the Alfredo.
- Vegetable Minestrone: A hearty but light soup packed with vegetables and beans.
- Italian Wedding Soup: Delicate meatballs, spinach, and acini di pepe pasta in a flavorful broth.
6. Grilled or Roasted Proteins
For a more protein-packed meal, consider these additional mains:
- Grilled Shrimp: Lightly seasoned shrimp grilled to perfection adds a seafood twist.
- Roasted Salmon: A simple lemon-butter salmon fillet pairs beautifully with Alfredo dishes.
- Italian Sausage: Add spicy or mild Italian sausage for a hearty, complementary flavor.
7. Wine Pairing
To complement your meal, pair the dish with a light wine:
- White Wine: Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay cuts through the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Light Reds: A smooth Pinot Noir or Chianti complements the cheese and chicken without overpowering the dish.
8. Simple Desserts
Finish the meal with a light and sweet dessert:
- Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing palate cleanser that balances the heaviness of the meal.
- Panna Cotta: Creamy but light, with fresh berries on top.
- Tiramisu: A classic Italian favorite with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.
Quick Pairing Combos
- Combo 1: Garlic bread + Caesar salad + roasted asparagus.
- Combo 2: Mixed greens salad + steamed green beans + tomato basil soup.
- Combo 3: Sautéed spinach + roasted Brussels sprouts + lemon sorbet for dessert.
These sides provide a variety of options—from crisp, fresh salads to warm, roasted vegetables—that perfectly complement the creamy richness of baked Asiago tortellini Alfredo. Whether you’re hosting guests or preparing a family dinner, these pairings will complete your meal beautifully!
If you’re looking for an afternoon tea pairing instead, these Earl Grey Cookies are the ideal light and sweet treat.
Storage Tips for Tortellini Alfredo
Properly storing your baked Asiago tortellini Alfredo guarantees it remains fresh, creamy, and delicious for later meals. Whether you’re making it ahead, saving leftovers, or freezing portions for quick dinners, here are the best tips to keep it tasting perfect:
Make Ahead
- Prepare the grilled chicken, Alfredo sauce, and tortellini separately up to 1 day in advance.
- Keep each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine everything in a baking dish, add a little extra cream to loosen the sauce, and bake until bubbly and golden.
- Pro Tip: Assemble the dish just before baking to prevent the tortellini from absorbing too much sauce and becoming mushy.
Store Leftovers
- Transfer any leftover tortellini Alfredo to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Avoid leaving the dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
- If the sauce thickens or dries out in the fridge, add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Reheat
To keep the Alfredo sauce smooth and prevent it from separating, follow these reheating tips:
- On the Stovetop: Place leftovers in a saucepan over low to medium heat. Add a little cream, milk, or chicken broth and stir frequently until the pasta and sauce are heated through.
- In the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tortellini Alfredo in a baking dish, add a bit of cream or broth, and cover the dish with foil to prevent drying. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- In the Microwave: For single servings, place leftovers in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of cream or milk, cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between intervals to avoid hot spots.
Freeze for Later
Freezing tortellini Alfredo is a great way to enjoy a quick, satisfying meal on busy days:
- Portion the Dish: Divide leftovers into freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags for easy portioning. Flatten bags to save freezer space.
- Freeze: Store for up to 2-3 months. Label each container with the date for easy tracking.
- Thaw and Reheat:
- Thaw the frozen tortellini Alfredo overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat using the stovetop or oven methods above, adding a bit of cream or broth as needed to restore creaminess.
- Pro Tip: Avoid freezing unbaked Alfredo sauce alone, as the cream may separate. Fully assembled, baked dishes freeze and reheat better.
Quick Recap for Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare components separately, combine before baking.
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Use the stovetop, oven, or microwave with a splash of cream.
- Freeze: Portion and freeze for up to 2-3 months, then thaw and reheat gently.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your baked Asiago tortellini Alfredo at its best—even days after making it! Whether you’re meal prepping or saving leftovers, a little extra care guarantees every bite is just as creamy and satisfying as the first.
FAQs
- What’s the difference between tortellini and tortelloni?
- Tortellini are smaller, ring-shaped pasta, while tortelloni are larger, crescent-shaped, and usually stuffed with ricotta or spinach.
- Can I substitute Asiago cheese?
- Yes, Parmesan or Grana Padano works as a great alternative for similar nutty flavors.
- How do I prevent Alfredo sauce from curdling?
- Use low heat when adding cheese, and avoid overheating the cream.
- What protein can I use instead of grilled chicken?
- Absolutely! Prepare the tortellini, Alfredo sauce, and grilled chicken separately. Combine everything in a baking dish and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the freshest results.
- Can I make baked tortellini Alfredo ahead of time?
- For variety, try using shrimp, Italian sausage, or even roasted turkey breast. Vegetarians can replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Conclusion
This baked Asiago tortellini Alfredo with grilled chicken is a rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With velvety Alfredo sauce, cheesy pasta, and juicy grilled chicken, it’s a complete comfort meal.
Serve it alongside garlic bread, a crisp salad, and finish off with treats like Earl Grey Cookies or Muddy Buddies for a perfectly balanced meal.
Give it a try tonight—you won’t be disappointed!