If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the fiery punch of buffalo chicken with the comforting, cheesy goodness of tortellini, then you are in for a real treat with this One Pot Buffalo Chicken Cheesy Tortellini Recipe. It’s a harmonious dance of flavors and textures that come together effortlessly in just one pot, making dinner both exciting and approachable. Creamy, spicy, and irresistibly cheesy, this dish is perfect for those nights when you want something bold but don’t want to fuss over a million dishes. Let me take you through every step of creating this fantastic meal that’s sure to become a beloved favorite at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this irresistible One Pot Buffalo Chicken Cheesy Tortellini Recipe, we keep things simple but impactful. Each ingredient plays a crucial role — from the tender chicken bringing protein and heartiness, to the spicy buffalo sauce giving that signature kick, and the cheeses that transform the dish into a luscious, gooey delight.
- 1 tbsp butter: For sautéing the chicken and adding rich flavor to the base.
- 1 lb chicken breasts (cut into 1 inch pieces): The star protein, providing a tender and juicy centerpiece.
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (divided): The vibrant heat and tang that defines the dish.
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini: Cheesy pockets that soak up all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a smoky warmth and lovely color.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings depth and a hint of savory sharpness.
- ½ tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Creates the cooking liquid that keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- 2 oz cream cheese (cubed): Melts into a creamy texture that binds the dish beautifully.
- ½ cup cheddar cheese (shredded): Adds that rich, gooey cheese pull we all crave.
How to Make One Pot Buffalo Chicken Cheesy Tortellini Recipe
Step 1: Get the Butter Melting
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. This will create a luscious, buttery base to cook your chicken and infuse it with flavor right from the get-go.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken in Buffalo Sauce
Toss your bite-sized chicken pieces with half a cup of buffalo sauce to ensure every piece is packed with that tangy, spicy goodness that makes this recipe so addictive.
Step 3: Cook the Buffalo Chicken
Once your butter is melted and shimmering, add the buffalo-coated chicken pieces to the skillet. Let them cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they are cooked through and slightly caramelized on the edges for an extra flavor boost.
Step 4: Add Tortellini and Spices
Next, add the cheese tortellini along with paprika, garlic powder, and kosher salt. These spices bring a subtle smoky warmth and savory depth that perfectly complement the buffalo heat.
Step 5: Pour in Buffalo Sauce and Broth
Pour in the remaining ½ cup buffalo sauce along with 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring this vibrant mixture to a boil, allowing the tortellini to start absorbing those zesty flavors as it cooks.
Step 6: Simmer Away
Cover your skillet, then reduce the heat and let the contents simmer gently for 7 to 8 minutes. This step ensures the tortellini cooks perfectly while melding all the ingredients into one harmonious bite.
Step 7: Add the Creamy Cheeses
Remove the lid and add the cubed cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. The cheeses will melt into the sauce, turning it into a creamy, decadent blanket that coats every morsel.
Step 8: Stir and Melt
Give everything a good stir to blend all those melty cheeses into the dish. Let it cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes to ensure the cheese is fully melted and the sauce has thickened wonderfully.
How to Serve One Pot Buffalo Chicken Cheesy Tortellini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions can add a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness. For those who love a little extra heat, a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing makes a perfect cooling contrast.
Side Dishes
This dish shines as a one-pot wonder but pairs delightfully with crunchy veggie sticks, a crisp garden salad, or even some buttery garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the buffalo tortellini in individual ramekins or hollowed-out mini bell peppers for a festive party snack. You could also layer it in a casserole dish and bake briefly for a bubbly, golden cheese crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from the One Pot Buffalo Chicken Cheesy Tortellini Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to develop, making for a tasty next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, it freezes well. Just freeze portions in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to bring back that creamy, saucy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Just be sure to add a minute or two to the simmer time since frozen tortellini can take slightly longer to cook through.
What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I adjust the buffalo sauce?
Of course! You can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or substitute it with a milder wing sauce or even barbeque sauce for a different but still delicious flavor.
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes, this recipe is quite flexible! Try cooked shredded turkey, ground beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist paired with a suitable sauce.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
You can swap cream cheese and cheddar for your favorite dairy-free alternatives. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary but still be satisfying.
How can I make this dish even cheesier?
Feel free to add extra shredded cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack near the end of cooking for a gooier, cheesier experience. Just keep an eye on melting so it doesn’t burn.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this One Pot Buffalo Chicken Cheesy Tortellini Recipe enough for anyone looking to excite their taste buds without spending hours in the kitchen. The perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and heartiness makes it a weeknight winner that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become a go-to dish in your culinary repertoire.
Print
One Pot Buffalo Chicken Cheesy Tortellini Recipe
- Prep Time: 6 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One Pot Buffalo Chicken Cheesy Tortellini is a flavorful, quick, and comforting meal combining tender buffalo-seasoned chicken, creamy cheeses, and cheesy tortellini all cooked together in a single skillet. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that packs a spicy punch with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Proteins & Dairy
- 1 lb chicken breasts (cut into 1 inch pieces)
- 2 oz cream cheese (cubed)
- ½ cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 tbsp butter
Pantry & Seasonings
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (divided)
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Prepare the skillet: Add the butter to a large skillet over medium heat and allow it to melt completely to create a rich base for cooking the chicken.
- Season the chicken: Toss the cubed chicken pieces with half of the buffalo sauce (½ cup) to evenly coat them with the spicy flavor before cooking.
- Cook the chicken: Once the butter has melted, add the buffalo-coated chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until the chicken begins to brown and is mostly cooked through.
- Add tortellini and spices: Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the skillet along with the paprika, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
- Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the remaining buffalo sauce (½ cup) and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 7-8 minutes until the tortellini is cooked and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Add cheeses: Remove the lid, then add the cubed cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mixture.
- Finish and melt: Stir the mixture to combine the cheeses evenly, allowing them to melt fully into the sauce over 3-4 minutes to create a creamy, cheesy consistency.
Notes
- Use refrigerated cheese tortellini for best results; fresh or frozen may require different cooking times.
- Adjust buffalo sauce amount based on your preferred spice level.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it.
- Can substitute chicken breasts with thighs if preferred; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Serve with a side of celery sticks or ranch dressing to balance the spicy buffalo flavor.
