If you’re in the mood for something creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious, this Chicken Alfredo Bacon Tortellini is the ultimate comfort dish. It combines the rich flavors of Alfredo sauce, tender shredded chicken, savory bacon, and pillowy tortellini all topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor a perfect dish for weeknight dinners or when you want to indulge a little.
Jump to RecipeWhy You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy & Cheesy: The Alfredo sauce coats everything in a luscious, creamy blanket of flavor.
- Savory Bacon: Adding crispy, crumbled bacon brings an irresistible salty kick.
- Hearty Comfort: With pasta, chicken, and bacon, this dish is filling and satisfying.
- Quick & Easy: It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Family Favorite: This crowd-pleasing recipe will be a hit with everyone at the dinner table.
Ingredients for Chicken Alfredo Bacon Tortellini
Here’s what you’ll need to create this indulgent pasta dish:
- 2 cups tortellini, cooked: You can use cheese or meat-filled tortellini, whichever you prefer.
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded: A great way to use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or make homemade if you prefer.
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds a savory, smoky flavor and crunchy texture.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: For that perfect cheesy finish.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: Optional, but it adds a nice touch of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Directions to Make Chicken Alfredo Bacon Tortellini
1. Cook the Tortellini
Start by boiling 2 cups of tortellini according to the package instructions. Once the tortellini is cooked to al dente, drain and set it aside. This step should only take about 5-7 minutes depending on the type of tortellini you’re using.
2. Prepare the Chicken, Bacon, and Sauce
In a large pan, combine 1 cup of Alfredo sauce, 1 cup of shredded chicken, and 4 slices of cooked, crumbled bacon. Stir everything together over medium heat until the mixture is heated through and the chicken is warm. The Alfredo sauce will meld all the flavors together, making it irresistibly creamy.
3. Add the Tortellini
Next, toss the cooked tortellini into the pan with the Alfredo sauce mixture. Make sure the tortellini is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. The sauce should cling perfectly to the pasta, making every bite indulgent.
4. Serve and Garnish
Once everything is combined and heated through, it’s time to plate. Serve the Chicken Alfredo Bacon Tortellini in bowls or on plates, and top each portion with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Alfredo Bacon Tortellini
- Use Fresh Tortellini: If you can find fresh tortellini, it cooks faster and has a great texture. If not, frozen or dried works just fine.
- Shred Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using rotisserie chicken from the store. It’s already cooked and flavorful, making this dish even quicker to put together.
- Cook the Bacon Just Right: Make sure your bacon is crispy but not burnt. Crumble it into small pieces so it spreads evenly throughout the dish.
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to add extra cheeses like mozzarella or even a bit of cheddar for more cheesy goodness.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Leave out the chicken and bacon for a vegetarian take on this dish. Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for a veggie-packed version.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy variation.
- Different Meats: Swap the chicken for cooked shrimp or diced ham for a different protein option.
- Extra Creamy: Add an extra splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese to make the sauce even richer.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Alfredo Bacon Tortellini is filling enough to be served on its own, but if you’d like to round out the meal, here are a few suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: A side of crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A light, refreshing Caesar salad is a great way to balance out the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed Veggies: Serve with some steamed broccoli or green beans for a nutritious side that adds color and crunch.
Storing and Reheating
- To Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce if needed.
- To Freeze: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Chicken Alfredo Bacon Tortellini
The creamy Alfredo sauce is packed with flavor, and the tender chicken and bacon add a delicious texture. This recipe is easy to follow and produces a delicious and hearty meal.
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
Directions
- Cook Tortellini: Boil tortellini as per package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Combine: In a pan, mix Alfredo sauce, shredded chicken, and crumbled bacon, stirring until heated.
- Add Tortellini: Toss in the cooked tortellini, ensuring all is coated with sauce.
- Serve: Top with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Notes
- A creamy and indulgent pasta dish with added bacon for a savory kick!
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo Bacon Tortellini is a delicious, creamy pasta dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. The combination of tender tortellini, savory chicken, smoky bacon, and creamy Alfredo sauce is pure comfort food. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want something indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.