Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
If you’re craving a one-pan dinner that brings comfort, flavor, and just the right amount of indulgence to your table, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is your new weeknight hero. Imagine pillowy cheese tortellini, tender bites of seasoned chicken, and crisp-tender broccoli, all coated in a luscious, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. This dish is pure Italian-American comfort food, but with a fresh, vibrant twist. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just treating yourself after a long day, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple, relying on a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients that each play a starring role. Every element is chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color for the ultimate Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli experience.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve a golden sear on the chicken.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for that unmistakable aroma and depth.
- Broccoli florets: Brings color, crunch, and a healthy green balance to the dish.
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini: The soft, cheesy pasta that’s the heart of this recipe—go for the good stuff in the cold section.
- Heavy cream: Delivers that dreamy, silky sauce base; you can lighten it with half-and-half if you wish.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps thin out the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for melt-in-your-mouth texture and robust flavor.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that infuses the sauce with classic Mediterranean notes.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick and extra warmth in each bite.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer to perfection.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on top for a burst of color and herbal freshness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Start by cooking the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente so the pasta holds up in the sauce. Drain and set aside—don’t worry if it cools a bit, it’ll warm up again in the creamy sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot pan. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Broccoli
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out—the browned bits add tons of flavor!), add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute, just until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until they’re vibrant green and tender-crisp.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir in the Italian seasoning and, if you like a little heat, the red pepper flakes. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly and allow the flavors to meld. Next, add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and glossy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken and tortellini to the skillet. Toss everything together so the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in that luscious sauce. Let it all simmer for 2 more minutes, just until heated through and everything is perfectly combined.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and get ready for rave reviews at the table!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli
Garnishes
This dish loves a simple touch: a flurry of fresh parsley, extra Parmesan curls, or a crack of black pepper right before serving. If you want more zing, a sprinkle of lemon zest or a few chili flakes can make each plate feel truly special.
Side Dishes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with warm, crusty bread is always a good idea for mopping up every drop of sauce. For a lighter side, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette beautifully balances the richness of the pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish family-style in a big, shallow bowl for a cozy, rustic vibe, or plate it individually with a swirl of sauce and a sprinkle of parsley for an elegant touch. For a fun twist, you can even serve it in hollowed-out bread bowls—guaranteed to wow your guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container once completely cooled. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, but a splash of cream or broth will bring it back to life when reheating.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions for up to one month. Let the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli cool, then pack into freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir frequently to ensure even warming. Avoid microwaving for too long, as this can make the sauce separate or the tortellini go soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Just cook the frozen tortellini according to the package directions before adding it to the skillet. The finished Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli will still be delicious.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to get creative—sliced mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or peas all work beautifully in this dish and add new layers of flavor and color.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sauce?
If you need a dairy-free version, try using a plant-based cream and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. The flavor will be a bit different, but you’ll still get a wonderful creamy texture.
Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Yes! You can prepare the components ahead of time and store them separately, then assemble and heat everything together just before serving. This keeps the tortellini and broccoli from getting too soft.
How can I make it spicier?
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne to the sauce for extra heat. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for those who like things fiery.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a meal that feels like a warm hug, you can’t go wrong with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli. With its rich, velvety sauce, satisfying textures, and fresh pops of green, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Gather your loved ones, pour a glass of something you love, and enjoy every bite of this comforting classic!
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a rich and comforting Italian-American dish combining tender chicken, tender-crisp broccoli, and cheesy tortellini in a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner that comes together in under an hour!
Ingredients
Chicken & Vegetables
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Pasta & Sauce
- 1 package (20 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions, usually boiling for 3-5 minutes until tender. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Broccoli: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they are tender-crisp, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet with broccoli and garlic. Stir in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Heat Through: Return the cooked chicken and drained tortellini to the skillet. Toss everything together carefully so the tortellini and chicken are well coated with the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, reducing richness and calories.
- Enhance the flavor by adding sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms along with the broccoli.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
- If you prefer spice, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
