Name: Chicken Tortellini Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 19 oz frozen cheese tortellini; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed; 24 oz marinara sauce; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided); 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Non-stick cooking spray

Why You’ll Love Chicken Tortellini Bake Recipe

• Comforting and creamy — rich sauce and melted cheese make every bite satisfying.
• Easy to prepare — uses store‑bought tortellini and cooked chicken to save time.
• Feeds a crowd — great for families or making ahead for potlucks.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

20 ounce package refrigerated cheese tortellini cooked and drained
3 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
15 ounce jar Alfredo sauce or homemade
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, reducing boiling time by about 2 minutes so they finish cooking in the oven; reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
In a large bowl, combine Alfredo sauce, sour cream, 1 ½ cups mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.
Fold in the cooked chicken and drained tortellini until evenly coated; add reserved pasta water ¼ cup at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup mozzarella.
Cover with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbling.
Remove the foil and broil 2–3 minutes until the cheese is golden and toasty.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 people
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Swap in spinach or chicken‑filled tortellini for extra flavor.
• Stir in vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or spinach before baking for added nutrition.
• Use marinara or a creamy tomato sauce in place of Alfredo for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers stored in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through; add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened. For freezing, wrap tightly and freeze up to 2–3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I make this ahead of time?

You can assemble the casserole the day before, cover, and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature about 20 minutes before baking as directed.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes — if using frozen tortellini, cook according to package instructions before adding to the casserole. Adjust baking time if needed.

What type of chicken is best?

Cooked shredded or diced chicken like rotisserie or leftover chicken breast works perfectly.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Replace chicken with extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini, and use tomato or Alfredo sauce.

Is it possible to use a different cheese?

Absolutely — swap mozzarella for provolone, fontina, or a mix of Italian cheeses for a richer flavor.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Keep it covered with foil during most of the baking time and use reserved pasta water to keep the sauce creamy.

Can I add more spices?

Feel free to add red pepper flakes, Italian herbs, or garlic salt to suit your taste.

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with a green salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread to balance the creamy pasta.

How do I reheat leftovers without drying them?

Reheat in the oven covered with foil or microwave with a little extra sauce or milk to maintain moisture.

Can I freeze this after baking?

Yes — freeze leftovers in airtight containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

This Chicken Tortellini Bake is a cheesy, satisfying casserole that’s ideal for family dinners or meal prep. With simple ingredients and a creamy sauce, it’s a comforting dish that’s easy to customize and sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy making this cozy bake and sharing it with loved ones at the table!