Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
If you are looking for a comforting, elegant dish that comes together in just about 30 minutes, the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish combines tender cheese tortellini with juicy chicken and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a luscious garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that feels indulgent yet wholesome—ideal for a weeknight dinner or even when you want to impress your friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of each ingredient, which all play a crucial role in delivering that rich, creamy taste and satisfying texture. From the tender chicken to the fresh broccoli and sharp Parmesan, every element is essential to balance flavor and color in this dish.
- 12 oz cheese tortellini: Fresh or frozen works great, providing the perfect cheesy center for every bite.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces to cook quickly and stay juicy.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For browning the chicken beautifully and adding richness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is the heart of the sauce, giving it that irresistible aroma and depth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that silky, indulgent base of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and balances the cream’s richness without overpowering flavors.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: The star of the sauce, providing sharpness and creaminess.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Steamed or cooked to add color, nutrients, and a fresh crunch.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every layer of flavor.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
The first step is simple but important: boil your cheese tortellini according to the package directions until just tender. Draining it properly and setting it aside ensures it won’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce later. Fresh tortellini tends to cook faster, so keep a close eye on it for perfect texture.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your bite-sized chicken pieces. Season them generously with salt and pepper before cooking for about 5 to 7 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. This step builds the savory foundation of the dish. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside so you can use the flavorful drippings in the next step.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until the scent fills your kitchen—just the right amount of time to release those garlicky notes without burning. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together and letting it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes. This simmering helps thicken the sauce and marry the flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Parmesan Cheese
Gradually stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce. It will melt down to create the luxuriously creamy texture that makes this dish so irresistible. If the sauce feels too thick, do not hesitate to add a splash more chicken broth to reach the perfect consistency. Remember, this sauce is the heart of the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe.
Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
Now comes the fun part: add the cooked tortellini, browned chicken, and steamed broccoli florets right into the skillet. Toss everything together gently so every piece is coated with that sumptuous cream sauce. This ensures each bite is bursting with flavor and carries a lovely blend of textures.
Step 6: Final Touches
Let the combined ingredients cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes to heat through completely. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to thicken slightly for a satisfying finish. Your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe is now ready to serve.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese over the top adds a sharp, cheesy finish that guests love. For a touch of freshness and color, add chopped fresh parsley or a twist of black pepper. These small touches elevate the presentation while complementing the flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite hearty on its own, but if you want to add a side, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness wonderfully. Garlic bread or warm focaccia also pairs beautifully for mopping up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more formal touch, serve the tortellini in shallow bowls and garnish each plate individually with Parmesan and herbs. Alternatively, bake the combined dish in an oven-safe dish topped with extra Parmesan and breadcrumbs for a crispy crust variation. This makes the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe even more versatile and fun to enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Because the sauce is creamy, you’ll want to gently reheat the dish to maintain its smooth texture without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to do so before adding the broccoli to avoid texture changes. Store in freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind that freezing may slightly affect the cream sauce’s texture, so stirring in a little fresh cream or broth after reheating helps refresh it.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy and smooth, just like when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini for this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well as fresh—just follow the package instructions for boiling, and you’re good to go. Just be sure to drain it well before adding it to the sauce.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the recipe?
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be a bit thinner. To compensate, simmer the sauce a little longer to thicken it properly.
How do I steam broccoli quickly for the recipe?
Steaming broccoli can be done easily by placing the florets in a microwave-safe bowl with a couple of tablespoons of water, covering it loosely, and microwaving for 2 to 3 minutes until tender but still bright green.
Can I prepare this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the chicken and boost the protein with extra broccoli or add mushrooms or chickpeas as hearty substitutes. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce shines with lots of vegetables too.
What wine pairs best with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe?
A crisp, refreshing white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully, as it cuts through the richness of the cream sauce and balances the savory flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely satisfying about a dish that combines comfort with elegance, and the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe does just that. With its quick prep time, simple ingredients, and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Give it a try and watch how it becomes a hit with your family or friends in no time!
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a comforting and hearty Italian-inspired dish featuring tender cheese tortellini, succulent sautéed chicken, and fresh broccoli florets, all enveloped in a rich, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. Perfectly balanced and easy to make in just 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (plus extra if needed)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or cooked)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Boil the cheese tortellini according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the tortellini and set aside to be combined later.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine the liquids. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce appears too thick at this stage, add extra chicken broth a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked tortellini and chicken to the skillet. Add the steamed broccoli florets. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are well coated with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Final Touches: Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes over medium heat until everything is heated through thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan tortellini hot, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh tortellini for a more tender texture, but frozen works just as well.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Broccoli can be steamed in the microwave or on the stovetop before adding to the dish.
- Adding freshly ground black pepper enhances the flavor contrast with the creaminess.
- This dish can be made vegetarian by omitting chicken and using vegetable broth instead.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
