Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces (about 1”) and place in a large bowl. Sprinkle with the cornstarch, 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 Tablespoons cornstarch, kosher salt & black pepper
Set a large skillet, ideally one with a tight-fitting lid, over medium-high heat. Drizzle in enough olive oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan.
1-2 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
When the oil starts to shimmer, add half the chicken. Cook for 2-3 minutes without touching, until one side is golden, then turn frequently as it browns for another couple of minutes, until each piece is cooked through. Transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate, set aside, and repeat with remaining chicken.
When all the chicken is cooked and removed from the pan, add garlic, tomato paste, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30-60 seconds, just until fragrant.
2-3 cloves garlic, 2 Tablespoons tomato paste, pinch red pepper flakes
Add the tomato sauce, broth, and Italian seasoning. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits, and stir well until the tomato paste is dissolved.
1 (14 ounce) can tomato sauce, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Stir in cream or half and half, then sample and add more salt and pepper to taste.
1/2 cup heavy cream or half and half
Stir in tortellini, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and cook for 5 minutes. Test a tortellini; if it is tender, remove from the heat and serve, but if it needs a few more minutes, return the lid and continue cooking as needed, checking every minute or so.
18 ounces refrigerated tortellini
When the tortellini are cooked through, return chicken pieces to the pan. Stir well to warm through and coat with sauce.
Serve right away with grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley. Enjoy!
fresh grated Parmesan and basil