Picture a steaming bowl of tender, cheese-filled tortellini nestled in a velvety, herb-infused cream sauce. Each bite is a harmonious blend of smoky bacon, succulent chicken, and the subtle heat of red pepper flakes, all brought together by the richness of Parmesan and the freshness of wilted spinach and basil.

The dish begins with the irresistible aroma of crispy bacon, its savory essence infusing every element. Golden-seared chicken pieces add a hearty, protein-packed depth, while roasted red peppers and tomato paste lend a touch of sweetness and tang. The creamy sauce, enriched with heavy cream and Parmesan, clings lovingly to the tortellini, creating a luxurious texture that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Fresh spinach and basil add a pop of color and a burst of herbal brightness, balancing the richness of the dish. Every forkful is a symphony of flavors—smoky, creamy, savory, and slightly spicy—with a satisfying contrast of textures from the al dente tortellini, tender chicken, and crispy bacon.

This meal is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with loved ones. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to mop up every last drop of the luscious sauce, and perhaps a glass of white wine to complement its richness.

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Why You’ll Love This Dish

✅ Restaurant-quality comfort food in 45 minutes
✅ Perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and spicy flavors
✅ Customizable with your favorite proteins or veggies
✅ Makes fantastic leftovers (flavors deepen overnight!)

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This tortellini creation isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience, a warm embrace of flavors that will leave you craving seconds. 🍝✨

Ingredients:

Proteins & Pasta

• 1 large chicken breast (16 oz), sliced
• ¼ lb smoky bacon (6 slices)
• 20 oz fresh spinach & ricotta tortellini

Aromatics & Veggies

• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 5 oz jarred roasted red peppers, sliced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves

Sauce Essentials

• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan

Seasonings

• 2 tsp Italian seasoning (divided)
• ½-1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp flour + 2 tbsp flour (divided)
• Kosher salt & coarse black pepper

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Instructions:

1. Crisp the Bacon: In a large, deep skillet, cook 6 slices of bacon over medium heat until it’s just shy of crispy—rendering its smoky, savory essence. Remove the bacon, leaving behind its golden grease (about 2 tablespoons; drain excess if needed).
2. Prep the Chicken: While the bacon works its magic, pound 2 chicken breasts to an even thickness and slice into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in a bowl with a generous pinch of salt and pepper, half of your Italian seasoning, and 1 tablespoon of flour. Coat the chicken evenly, then sear it in the bacon-infused pan until golden on all sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan, followed by 1 diced onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened, then stir in 3 minced garlic cloves until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Build the Sauce: Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 1 cup of diced roasted red peppers. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of flour, stirring until fully combined. Slowly pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Add 9 oz of fresh tortellini and let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Season & Enrich: Season the sauce with a pinch of salt, pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and let it simmer gently.
6. Cheese & Greens: Gradually sprinkle in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan, stirring until melted and silky. Add 2 cups of fresh spinach and a handful of torn basil leaves, mixing until the greens are wilted and vibrant.
7. Bring It All Together: Return the chicken and crumbled bacon to the pan. Let everything simmer together for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a harmonious, creamy masterpiece.
8. Serve with Love: Dish up this comforting tortellini creation in deep bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of fresh basil. Pair with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the luscious sauce.

Pro Tip: For a touch of brightness, finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of lemon zest to cut through the richness.🔥Flavor Boosters: Use ¼ cup white wine when deglazing pan and/or Swap bacon for pancetta for richer flavor.

Pair With: Crispy garlic bread Simple arugula salad Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio