Name: Caesar Chicken Tortellini (Lightened Up)
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2-3 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1 package (20 oz.) quality cheese tortellini; 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided); 1 tablespoon butter; 2-4 cloves garlic (minced); 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Asian fish sauce; 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon; 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 oz. cream cheese (softened (use less fat)); 3 cups cubed French baguette bread (approx. 1/2-1); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan

If you’re looking for a deliciously creamy and satisfying pasta dish that won’t leave you feeling heavy, then you’ll absolutely love this Caesar Chicken Tortellini (Lightened Up). This dish combines the classic flavors of Caesar salad with the comfort of cheesy tortellini, all while lightening up the ingredients for a healthier twist. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe will leave your taste buds singing and your waistline happy!

Why This Caesar Chicken Tortellini (Lightened Up) Stands Out

This lightened-up version of Caesar Chicken Tortellini is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The tender, seasoned chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly and remain juicy. The creamy sauce, made with a combination of fresh ingredients, is rich in flavor but light enough to keep you feeling great. Plus, the addition of tortellini makes this dish hearty and filling without being overly heavy. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

What Goes In

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Caesar Chicken Tortellini (Lightened Up):

2-3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 (20 oz.) package quality cheese tortellini
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 tablespoon butter
2-4 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Asian fish sauce
2 teaspoons chicken bouillon
1/2 teaspoon EACH of dried parsley, dried basil, onion powder, salt
1/4 teaspoon EACH of dried oregano, pepper, red pepper flakes
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 oz. cream cheese, softened (I use less fat)
3 cups cubed French baguette bread (approx. 1/2-1)
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Fresh parsley for garnish

Must-Have Equipment

To whip up this delicious dish, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

Large pot: For boiling the tortellini.
Skillet: To cook the chicken and sauce.
Whisk: For mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly.
Cutting board and knife: Essential for prepping the chicken and garlic.
Meat mallet: To pound the chicken breasts evenly.

Method: Caesar Chicken Tortellini (Lightened Up)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken breasts. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over the chicken, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. This will infuse the chicken with flavor and keep it juicy.

Step 2: Cook the Tortellini

While the chicken is marinating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and add it to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in the 3 tablespoons of flour and whisk well to create a roux. Gradually pour in the 2 cups of milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add 1 1/2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1/2 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of Asian fish sauce, and 2 teaspoons of chicken bouillon. Season with dried parsley, dried basil, onion powder, salt, oregano, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once the sauce is thickened, stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Slice the chicken and place it on top of the tortellini.

Step 6: Prepare the Croutons

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed French baguette bread with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of finely grated Parmesan, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the creamy Caesar Chicken Tortellini in bowls, topped with the crispy croutons and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

To give your Caesar Chicken Tortellini (Lightened Up) a festive flair, consider these ideas:

Add seasonal vegetables such as spinach or kale for a pop of color and nutrition.
Incorporate roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
Use a blend of fresh herbs like basil and thyme for a more aromatic experience.
Serve with seasonal sides like a light salad with lemon vinaigrette.

Cook’s Notes

Here are a few tips to ensure your Caesar Chicken Tortellini (Lightened Up) turns out perfectly:

Don’t skip the marinating step; it’s key to infusing flavor into the chicken.
Feel free to use store-bought tortellini to save time.
Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
For an extra creamy sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This dish can be prepared in advance for a quick weeknight meal or for entertaining:

Marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
Cook the tortellini and sauce ahead of time, and store them separately. Combine when ready to serve.
The croutons can also be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well. Just remember to follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or simply omit it for a lighter sauce.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Desserts to Finish

After enjoying your delicious meal, treat yourself to something sweet! Here are some delightful dessert ideas:

Lemon Blueberry Bundt Cake – A light and refreshing cake to complement your meal.
Vegan Chocolate Mousse – A rich yet airy dessert that’s sure to please.
Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies – Classic cookies made with wholesome ingredients.

Bring It to the Table

This Caesar Chicken Tortellini (Lightened Up) is not just a dish; it’s a centerpiece that brings everyone together. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini, it’s a dish that will impress your family and friends alike. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, it’s bound to be a hit. So gather around the table, serve up this delicious meal, and enjoy the warmth and joy that comes from sharing good food with loved ones.