Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is the ultimate comfort dish. It combines tender tortellini pasta with juicy chicken and perfectly cooked broccoli, all coated in a rich, velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce. This one-pan recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy evening meal, offering a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe has everything you could ask for in a comforting pasta dish. Here’s why it’s sure to become a family favorite:

• One-Pan Wonder: Simplifies cooking and cleanup by using just one pan for everything.
• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The garlic Parmesan cream sauce is indulgent yet well-balanced, complementing the flavors of the chicken, broccoli, and tortellini.
• Perfectly Balanced: The tender chicken and fresh broccoli add protein and vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs with ease.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy sauce and cheesy tortellini are a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast or thighs
• Fresh or frozen tortellini
• Fresh broccoli florets
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Chicken broth
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

• Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and set aside.
• Cut the broccoli into small, bite-sized florets if using fresh. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and pat dry.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt a tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

• Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Cook the Tortellini

• Add the tortellini to the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the sauce. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini is tender and cooked through.

Step 6: Add Broccoli and Chicken

• Stir in the broccoli florets, cover, and let them steam in the sauce for about 3 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together to coat evenly in the sauce.

Step 7: Adjust Seasonings

• Taste the dish and adjust with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, if desired.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish with more grated Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, cheesy creation!

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and low-fat cheese for a lighter sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free tortellini and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Cheese Options: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.
• Protein Alternatives: Try shrimp, turkey, or even sausage instead of chicken for variety.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between intervals to ensure even heating.
• Freezing: The dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What type of tortellini works best for this recipe?

Fresh tortellini is ideal for its tender texture, but frozen or even dried tortellini can work well too. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken works great. Add it to the skillet at the end, just to warm through.

Is there a dairy-free version of this dish?

You can use coconut cream or a non-dairy milk alternative, along with vegan Parmesan substitutes.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce isn’t thick enough, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works fine. Thaw and pat dry to avoid excess water diluting the sauce.

What pairs well with this dish?

Serve with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Ensure the cream is at room temperature before adding it to the skillet, and avoid boiling the sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a few hours ahead and reheat gently before serving. Add a splash of cream to refresh the sauce.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

Vegetable broth or even white wine are great substitutes for chicken broth.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Use a larger skillet and adjust the cooking times slightly to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a dish that brings comfort and sophistication to your table with minimal effort. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and fresh broccoli creates a balanced meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and experience restaurant-quality flavors at home!

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