Description
Looking for a bold and creamy twist on pasta night? This Buffalo Chicken Tortellini recipe is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy tortellini tossed in a rich, spicy buffalo sauce with tender shredded chicken, finished with a touch of ranch and melty cheese. It’s a crave-worthy dinner that comes together fast and brings big flavor with every bite.
Perfect for busy weeknights, game day, or when you want something hearty and satisfying with a spicy kick!
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Ingredients
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1 (20 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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¾ cup buffalo wing sauce
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½ cup chicken broth
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½ cup heavy cream
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¼ cup ranch dressing
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1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes).
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ¼ cup of pasta water if you want to thin the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic & Build the Sauce
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Stir in buffalo sauce, chicken broth, heavy cream, ranch dressing, onion powder, and paprika.
7. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened.
Step 3: Add Chicken & Tortellini
8. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
9. Gently fold in the cooked tortellini.
10. Simmer everything together for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
11. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 4: Melt Cheese
12. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top of the skillet.
13. Cover and cook for 2-3 more minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
14. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
15. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
16. Serve hot with a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce or ranch if desired.
Notes
Use Rotisserie Chicken – It’s quick, flavorful, and makes prep even easier.
Adjust Heat – Use mild or hot buffalo sauce depending on your preference.
Add Veggies – Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
Cheese Options – Add cheddar or Monterey Jack for a sharper flavor.
Make It a Bake – Transfer to a baking dish, top with more cheese, and broil until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American