Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini with Fire-Roasted Red Peppers
Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini with Fire-Roasted Red Peppers is the kind of dish that transforms a regular dinner into something extraordinary. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful tortellini, all enhanced by the vibrant taste of fire-roasted red peppers. It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for weeknight meals, date nights, or even casual gatherings with friends. The secret? Cowboy butter, which adds a rich and decadent quality that you’ll crave again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini is not just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights. In less than 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that feels comforting yet sophisticated—no reservations required! Plus, the use of fire-roasted red peppers gives a smoky depth to the dish, elevating it from standard fare to something truly special.
“Absolutely loved this dish! The cowboy butter makes all the difference, and it was quick enough to make on a hectic weeknight!” – Happy Home Cook
Preparing Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini with Fire-Roasted Red Peppers
This recipe is straightforward, making it suitable even for beginner cooks. You’ll start by cooking the tortellini while you prepare a flavorful sauce with garlic, chicken, and peppers. Before you know it, you’ll have a rich, creamy dish that’s ready to serve. Let’s walk you through the process!
What You’ll Need
Gather these items to make your Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini:
- 2 cups tortellini
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup cowboy butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fire-roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Tip: If you don’t have cowboy butter, you can substitute it with regular butter mixed with your favorite seasonings to mimic that flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the cowboy butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, around 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the fire-roasted red peppers and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens just a bit.
- Toss the cooked tortellini into the skillet, ensuring it’s well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To serve Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini, consider plating it in a shallow bowl for a rustic look. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can add a delightful sharpness that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that will impress your guests or family.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool entirely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions; it should maintain quality for about a month. When reheating, do so on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to bring back the sauce’s consistency.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Always taste and adjust the seasoning as you go! This ensures that your dish is just right for your palate.
- If you’re short on time, pre-diced chicken and pre-cooked tortellini can be real time-savers.
- Experiment with adding fresh spinach or kale for extra nutrition and flavor. They cook down beautifully in the creamy sauce!
Creative Twists
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or even a plant-based protein for a different take on the dish. You can also add a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat or throw in some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra pop of flavor.
Your Questions Answered
-
What is Cowboy Butter?
Cowboy butter is a flavorful compound butter typically made with garlic, herbs, and spices. It adds a delicious richness to various dishes. -
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely! Just follow the package instructions for cooking time and adjustments. -
How long does this recipe take to prepare?
From start to finish, expect about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
By creating this Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini with Fire-Roasted Red Peppers, not only will you enjoy a satisfying meal, but you’ll also impress your guests with your culinary skills. Happy cooking!
Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups tortellini Use fresh or frozen tortellini.
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced Use pre-diced chicken for faster prep.
- 1/2 cup cowboy butter Can substitute with seasoned regular butter.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is recommended for best flavor.
- 1 cup fire-roasted red peppers, chopped Canned or jarred fire-roasted peppers work well.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream For a lighter version, use half-and-half.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to your preference.
- for garnish Fresh parsley Chopped for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the cowboy butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, around 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the fire-roasted red peppers and heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens just a bit.
- Toss the cooked tortellini into the skillet, ensuring it’s well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately.
