Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo With Grilled Chicken

Creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken is the perfect comfort food that doubles as an impressive meal for special occasions. This restaurant-quality dish combines pillowy cheese-stuffed tortelloni, a velvety Alfredo sauce enriched with the nutty flavor of Asiago cheese, and perfectly seasoned, grilled chicken. Whether you’re serving it as a centerpiece for a romantic dinner or a crowd-pleasing family meal, this recipe guarantees smiles at the table. The combination of flavors and textures is a match made in culinary heaven, and the best part? You can easily recreate this gourmet dish in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Restaurant-Quality at Home: This dish delivers the rich flavors and indulgent experience of dining out, without the hefty price tag.
• Customizable: Adjust the cheese blend, add vegetables, or swap proteins to suit your preferences.
• Perfectly Balanced: The creamy Alfredo sauce complements the robust flavor of grilled chicken for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
• Impressive but Easy: Despite its gourmet appearance, this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether for a weeknight dinner or a dinner party, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a standalone main course or pair it with sides like garlic bread or a fresh salad.
• Rich, Comforting Flavors: The creamy Asiago Alfredo sauce adds an extra depth of flavor, taking a classic dish to the next level.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 generous portion

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 670
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 41g
• Fat: 34g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tortelloni

• 1 lb cheese-filled tortelloni (store-bought or homemade)

For the Asiago Alfredo Sauce

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Asiago cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra grated Asiago or Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Grilled Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub them with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly on both sides.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Tortelloni

1. Boil the Tortelloni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortelloni and cook according to the package instructions, typically 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Asiago Alfredo Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
2. Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Incorporate the Cheese: Gradually whisk in the grated Asiago and Parmesan cheeses until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Toss the Tortelloni: Add the cooked tortelloni to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, tossing gently to coat.
2. Plate the Dish: Divide the tortelloni Alfredo among four plates. Top each serving with slices of grilled chicken.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.

Ingredient Background

• Asiago Cheese: Known for its nutty, sharp flavor, Asiago adds depth to the Alfredo sauce, setting it apart from traditional versions.
• Tortelloni vs. Tortellini: Tortelloni are larger and often stuffed with a more generous filling, making them ideal for creamy sauces like Alfredo.
• Chicken Breast: Lean and high in protein, chicken breast is a healthy, flavorful addition to this dish.
• Heavy Cream: Essential for creating a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce, heavy cream balances the tangy Asiago cheese.
• Parmesan Cheese: A classic complement to Asiago, Parmesan enhances the sauce’s overall cheesiness.

Technique Tips

• Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning.
• Low and Slow for the Sauce: Keep the heat low when making the Alfredo sauce to prevent the cheese from clumping or burning.
• Don’t Overcook the Tortelloni: Boil just until al dente, as overcooked tortelloni can become mushy when tossed in the sauce.
• Rest the Chicken: Allow the grilled chicken to rest before slicing to retain its juices.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Layered Bake: Transfer the tortelloni Alfredo to a baking dish, top with sliced chicken and breadcrumbs, and broil for a golden crust.
• Single-Serve Bowls: Serve in individual bowls for an elegant presentation.
• Vegetable Base: Use roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers as a base instead of pasta for a low-carb option.

Additional Tips for Success

• Grate Your Cheese Fresh: Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly, so opt for freshly grated Asiago and Parmesan.
• Season Gradually: Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning to avoid over-salting.
• Use High-Quality Pasta: A good-quality tortelloni will hold up better in the rich Alfredo sauce.

Recipe Variations

• Seafood Option: Replace the grilled chicken with shrimp or scallops for a seafood twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add roasted broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms.
• Spicy Alfredo: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.

Freezing and Storage

• Store Leftovers: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freeze the Sauce: Alfredo sauce can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore its consistency.
• Avoid Freezing Assembled Dish: The tortelloni may lose its texture when thawed. Store components separately for best results.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Light Alfredo Sauce: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter for a lighter sauce.
• Whole Wheat Tortelloni: Swap regular pasta for whole wheat tortelloni to boost fiber content.
• Lean Protein Options: Substitute chicken breast with turkey breast or a plant-based protein alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Dinner Party: Pair this dish with a Caesar salad and crusty garlic bread for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.
• Romantic Dinner: Serve with a glass of crisp white wine and a side of sautéed green beans or asparagus.
• Family Meal: Accompany with a bowl of minestrone soup and a platter of antipasto for an Italian-inspired feast.

Special Equipment

• Grill Pan: For achieving perfect grill marks on the chicken indoors.
• Large Skillet: Essential for making and tossing the Alfredo sauce with the tortelloni.
• Microplane or Cheese Grater: For finely grating Asiago and Parmesan cheeses.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes, but homemade sauce delivers a fresher, richer flavor. If using store-bought, enhance it with extra Asiago cheese and fresh garlic.

2. What’s the difference between tortelloni and tortellini?
Tortelloni are larger and typically have a more substantial filling, making them ideal for hearty sauces like Alfredo.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free tortelloni and double-check that all other ingredients, including the cheeses and cream, are gluten-free.

4. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping in the sauce?
Add the cheese gradually while whisking continuously, and keep the heat low to avoid overheating the sauce.

5. Can I substitute Asiago cheese?
Yes, you can use Pecorino Romano or additional Parmesan, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.

6. How do I make the chicken more flavorful?
Marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and Italian herbs for 30 minutes before grilling for extra flavor.

7. Can I prepare the components in advance?
Yes. Grill the chicken and make the Alfredo sauce up to a day ahead, then reheat gently while cooking the tortelloni fresh.

8. What can I serve with this dish?
A light green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent side dishes.

Conclusion
Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken is a luxurious dish that combines creamy, cheesy pasta with tender, flavorful chicken. It’s versatile enough for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, and its rich, comforting flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds. With easy-to-follow steps and plenty of room for customization, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re treating yourself, hosting a dinner party, or preparing a romantic meal, this dish is sure to impress.

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