When the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, it’s the perfect time to enjoy comforting meals that celebrate the flavors of the season. This easy autumn chicken tortellini recipe combines tender cheese-filled pasta with roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, bringing a cozy and delicious dinner to your table in under 40 minutes.
You’ll love how the sweet earthiness of the squash and the slight bitterness of the Brussels sprouts balance perfectly with savory chicken and creamy tortellini. This dish is easy to prepare, packed with autumn flavor, and sure to become a new seasonal favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and simple to make on busy weeknights.
- Uses seasonal fall ingredients like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts.
- Comforting and hearty without being heavy.
- One-pan roasting makes cleanup a breeze.
- Perfectly balanced flavors with savory chicken and creamy tortellini.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious autumn chicken tortellini meal. The recipe serves four people generously.
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 3 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage leaves, chopped (optional garnish)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 480 per serving
How to Make Easy Autumn Chicken Tortellini with Butternut Squash & Brussels Sprouts
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash and halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons olive oil, garlic powder, dried sage, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer and roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized.
- While the vegetables roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes), then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the cooked chicken pieces and sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Add the roasted vegetables to the skillet with the chicken, then pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the cooked tortellini and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing gently until everything is well combined and warmed through.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped sage and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan before serving.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use fresh tortellini if possible for a tender, pillowy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting vegetables to ensure even caramelization.
- Feel free to swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make this recipe meat-free.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the skillet when simmering the broth.
- Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly—great for saving time!
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the tortellini moist.
You can also freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash and Brussels sprouts if fresh aren’t available. Just adjust the roasting time as frozen vegetables may release more moisture and take slightly longer to caramelize.
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Cooked chicken breast or thigh meat works well, either roasted, grilled, or even leftover rotisserie chicken. Using pre-cooked chicken helps keep this meal quick and easy.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! This recipe reheats well and makes for a satisfying meal prep option. Keep portions in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables or a plant-based protein like sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for added heartiness.