Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a satisfying, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner gatherings. This dish combines tender cheese-stuffed tortellini, succulent chicken, fresh broccoli, and a velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce to create an irresistible fusion of flavors and textures. It’s hearty, flavorful, and comes together in under an hour, making it a go-to recipe for when you need something both delicious and simple.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The Parmesan cream sauce is the heart of this recipe, offering a luxurious texture and a burst of flavor from garlic and cheese.
• Family-Friendly: With its comforting ingredients and mild, savory flavors, this dish is a hit with both kids and adults.
• One-Pan Wonder: Save on cleanup by cooking the chicken, sauce, and pasta all in one pan.
• Nutritious Balance: The addition of fresh broccoli provides a boost of vitamins and nutrients, making this a wholesome meal.
• Versatile: This recipe allows for substitutions and variations, so you can tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs.

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Ingredients

• Chicken breast or thighs
• Cheese-filled tortellini
• Broccoli florets
• Butter
• Garlic
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Chicken broth
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

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Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
2. Blanch the Broccoli:
   While the chicken is cooking, bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Tortellini:
   In the same pot of boiling water, cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
4. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
   In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and reserved pasta water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Parmesan Cheese:
   Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
6. Combine Everything:
   Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken, cooked tortellini, and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to combine and coat everything in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
7. Finish and Serve:
   Allow the dish to simmer for another 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld. Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

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Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and double up on the broccoli or add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.
• Protein Substitutes: Swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even Italian sausage for a different protein profile.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan slightly.
• Spicier Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.

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Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

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Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it without the tortellini. Reheat the sauce and chicken separately, then cook fresh tortellini before serving.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly. Just cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Ensure the heavy cream is at room temperature and add it gradually to the skillet over medium heat. Avoid boiling the sauce.

What other vegetables can I use?

Aside from broccoli, try spinach, zucchini, asparagus, or peas.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the tortellini and combine everything just before serving.

Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?

Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are great alternatives, though they have slightly different flavor profiles.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce may be slightly less rich. You can thicken it with a bit of cornstarch if needed.

What’s the best way to season the chicken?

A mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning works well, but feel free to experiment with your favorite spices.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for extra heat.

How do I keep the broccoli from becoming mushy?

Blanch the broccoli briefly and immediately transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

What pairs well with this dish?

Serve it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

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Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a delicious, indulgent dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its rich, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli come together in a way that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this recipe will impress every time. Try it today and savor the deliciousness!

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