Cowboy Butter Garlic Chicken Tortellini

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Tortellini

1. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions until tender.The pasta should be just cooked through and still pleasantly firm, as it will finish warming in the sauce later.
2. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.This starchy liquid helps adjust the sauce’s consistency during the final toss.

2. Sear the Chicken

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.The pan should shimmer before adding the chicken to ensure a proper sear.
4. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.This early seasoning helps build layered flavor and enhances browning.
5. Sear for 5–7 minutes until cooked through and lightly caramelized. Set aside.The chicken should be opaque throughout with golden edges and no remaining pink inside.

3. Make the Cowboy Butter Base

6. In the same skillet, reduce heat and add the butter.Let it melt and combine with the browned bits in the pan; those bits add tremendous flavor.
7. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.The garlic should release its aroma without browning, which keeps the flavor sweet rather than bitter.
8. Add crushed red pepper, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, paprika, and onion powder.Stir for 1–2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes fragrant, forming a cohesive, glossy base.
   

   4. Build the Creamy Sauce