Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Recipe with Chicken and Broccoli

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and rich, cheesy tortellini all coated in a decadent garlic Parmesan sauce. This dish is perfect for those busy nights when you crave something indulgent yet easy to prepare. The creamy sauce, made with heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese, envelops the tortellini and chicken, while the garlic and Italian seasoning add layers of flavor.

The broccoli not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, slightly bitter crunch that balances out the richness of the sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a casual gathering, or simply treating yourself to a cozy meal, this recipe checks all the boxes for flavor, texture, and satisfaction. It’s a one-pan dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknights when you’re short on time but still want something flavorful and filling.

With its creamy texture, comforting flavors, and nutritious ingredients, this tortellini recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish and how to prepare it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy Flavor: The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is the star of this recipe, making each bite of tortellini, chicken, and broccoli indulgent and satisfying.
2. Quick and Easy: This one-pan dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Balanced Meal: With protein from the chicken, fiber from the broccoli, and carbs from the tortellini, this dish is a well-rounded meal that satisfies all your cravings.
4. Customizable: Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even a vegetarian protein like tofu or beans for different variations.
5. Kid-Friendly: The creamy, cheesy sauce and pasta make this dish irresistible to children, making it a great way to sneak in some vegetables with the broccoli.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• Refrigerated cheese tortellini
• Garlic, minced
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Dried Italian seasoning
• Butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Variations

1. Swap the Chicken: You can use shrimp, turkey, or even sausage in place of chicken for a different twist.
2. Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Add Extra Cheese: For an even cheesier dish, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top just before serving or stir in some shredded mozzarella.
4. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for some heat.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortellini to make this recipe suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. If using frozen broccoli, you may need to cook it a little longer. Set the broccoli aside with the chicken.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

In a separate pot, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the refrigerated cheese tortellini according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes. Drain the tortellini and set it aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the chicken and broccoli, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried Italian seasoning, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Once the sauce has thickened, return the chicken and broccoli to the skillet. Add the cooked tortellini and gently stir to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese, if desired. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if using, and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink in the center to avoid dry, tough meat.
• Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to enhance the flavor and texture.
• Stir the sauce constantly: When making the garlic Parmesan sauce, be sure to stir the mixture frequently to prevent the cream from curdling.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt more smoothly into the sauce compared to pre-grated Parmesan.

How to Serve

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is a hearty dish that can be served on its own as a complete meal. Pair it with a light side salad or garlic bread for a full Italian-inspired dinner. It also makes a great family meal or a comforting dish to serve at a casual dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy garlic Parmesan tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Freezing

You can freeze the dish for up to 1-2 months. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat the dish on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of cream or chicken broth to restore the creamy texture. Alternatively, you can microwave the dish in a covered container, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
   Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions.
2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
   You can use half-and-half or whole milk as a lighter alternative to heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic Parmesan sauce for a spicy kick.
4. Can I make this recipe without chicken?
   Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
5. Can I use a different cheese for the sauce?
   Yes, you can use mozzarella, Gruyère, or fontina cheese as a substitute for Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
6. Can I use frozen broccoli?
   Yes, frozen broccoli works fine for this recipe. Just be sure to cook it long enough to heat through and soften.
7. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   This recipe is not gluten-free as it uses regular cheese tortellini. However, you can substitute with gluten-free tortellini to make it gluten-free.
8. How can I make this dish ahead of time?
   You can prepare the entire dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving, adding a bit of cream or broth if necessary.
9. Can I use other types of meat in this dish?
   Yes, you can swap the chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even ground turkey.
10. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
    Yes, to make it dairy-free, use dairy-free cream, cheese, and butter substitutes.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is a rich, comforting dish that combines everything you love in one bite: tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal. The addition of broccoli adds color and nutrition, making this dish both indulgent and well-balanced. Serve it up for your next family dinner or casual gathering, and watch it become a new favorite!

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