When fall arrives, cozy meals filled with roasted vegetables and warm flavors become essential. This Autumn Chicken & Tortellini Dinner combines tender chicken thighs, cheese tortellini, and classic autumn vegetables like butternut squash and Brussels sprouts. Everything comes together in one satisfying dish that’s ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or simply enjoying the flavors of the season.
Ingredients
Roasted Butternut Squash
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Butternut squash, peeled and cubed | 3 cups |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Brussels sprouts, halved | 12 oz |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Chicken and Tortellini
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cheese tortellini | 9 oz |
| Chicken thighs, skinless and boneless | 1 lb |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 5 cloves |
| Fresh thyme | For garnish |
- Total Time: 1 hr
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Autumn chicken and tortellini dinner with roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts tossed in a garlic butter sauce. Cozy and comforting fall meal.
Ingredients
3 cups cubed butternut squash
1 tablespoon olive oil
12 oz Brussels sprouts
2 tablespoons olive oil
9 oz cheese tortellini
1 lb chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
Black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh thyme
Instructions
1. Roast butternut squash until tender.
2. Roast Brussels sprouts until golden.
3. Cook tortellini according to package.
4. Cook seasoned chicken in skillet.
5. Make garlic butter sauce.
6. Combine tortellini, chicken, and roasted vegetables.
7. Season and serve.
Notes
Roast vegetables in single layers.
Cook chicken in batches if needed.
Garnish with fresh thyme.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasted and Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Step-by-Step Instructions and Helpful Tips
Step 1: Roast the butternut squash
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Spread in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for about 30 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
Helpful tip: Avoid overcrowding to ensure even roasting.
Step 2: Roast the Brussels sprouts
Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 20 to 30 minutes until golden and crisp on the edges.
Helpful tip: These can roast at the same time as the squash.
Step 3: Cook the tortellini
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Helpful tip: Reserve a splash of pasta water if you need extra moisture later.
Step 4: Cook the chicken
Slice the chicken thighs into thin strips and season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, and cook the chicken in a single layer for about 4 minutes without moving. Flip and cook another 5 minutes until fully cooked, then remove from the skillet.
Helpful tip: Cooking in batches helps the chicken sear properly.
Step 5: Make the garlic butter sauce
In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Cook on low-medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Helpful tip: Keep heat low to prevent burning the garlic.
Step 6: Combine everything
Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss in the garlic butter. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir gently to coat. Add the roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, tossing carefully until combined. Remove from heat and top with fresh thyme. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Conclusion
This Autumn Chicken & Tortellini Dinner with Roasted Vegetables is the perfect fall comfort meal. With roasted seasonal vegetables, tender chicken, and cheesy tortellini, it’s a satisfying dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table all season long.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well but may cook slightly faster.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
What can I substitute for tortellini?
Ravioli or gnocchi are great alternatives.
Is this a one-pan meal?
The final assembly is done in one skillet, with vegetables roasted separately.