Simple Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini
Simple Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini is a bold, flavor-packed dinner that comes together quickly but tastes restaurant-worthy.
Ingredients
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Cowboy Butter Sauce:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Simmer 1–2 minutes.
- Return chicken to skillet and toss to coat in sauce.
- Add cooked tortellini and gently stir to combine.
- Sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan if using. Serve warm.
Notes
- Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
- For a creamier version, stir in ¼ cup heavy cream.
Simple Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini is a bold, flavor-packed dinner that comes together quickly but tastes restaurant-worthy. Tender bites of seasoned chicken are seared until golden, then tossed in a rich cowboy butter sauce made with melted butter, fresh garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, herbs, and a subtle kick of spice.
Cheese-filled tortellini adds a creamy, comforting element that perfectly balances the zesty, garlicky sauce. The combination of smoky paprika, parsley, and red pepper flakes gives the dish its signature “cowboy butter” flavor—savory, buttery, and slightly spicy. Everything comes together in one skillet for easy cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Serve it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors that the whole family will love.
