If you are craving a dish that bursts with rich, comforting flavors and showcases the perfect harmony of creamy texture, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, then you are in for a real treat. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you want a satisfying, homemade meal without fuss. Every bite sings with the delicious blend of garlic-infused cream sauce and nutty Parmesan coating the soft cheese tortellini, while the broccoli adds a fresh pop of color and nutrition that makes this dish both wholesome and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things delightfully simple, yet every ingredient plays an essential role in creating a harmonious plate of flavors and textures. From the creamy base to the succulent chicken and vibrant greens, these ingredients combine to deliver a meal that’s both hearty and elegant.
- 12 oz cheese tortellini: Choose fresh or frozen for tender, cheese-filled pillows that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cubed for quick cooking and tender, juicy bites throughout the dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For perfectly browning the chicken and subtly enhancing the overall flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds an aromatic kick that elevates every forkful with savory warmth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, velvety sauce that coats the tortellini and chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Lightens the sauce slightly while adding depth and savory richness.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Melts into the sauce, infusing a sharp and nutty finish.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Steamed or cooked tender for a fresh crunch and vibrant color contrast.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A medley of herbs that enhances the Italian-inspired profile of the dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Used as a garnish for a bright, herby finish and pretty presentation.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Start off by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in your cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions—this usually takes just a few minutes. The tortellini should be tender yet still have a slight bite to them, perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce later. Once done, drain them well and set aside so they’re ready to join the rest of the dish at just the right moment.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, then season with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Sauté the chicken until it’s a beautiful golden brown and fully cooked through—this usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes. The searing locks in juicy flavor, making each piece incredibly satisfying. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, keeping all those flavorful chicken drippings in the pan to enhance the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. This quick step releases the incredible garlic aroma without letting it burn, which can turn bitter. Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring regularly. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and develop a rich, inviting base that will envelop the other ingredients.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. Now, add the cooked tortellini, chicken, and broccoli florets directly into the skillet. Toss everything well to ensure every bite is luxuriously coated in the sauce. Let the dish cook together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors can marry and everything heats through evenly.
Step 5: Serve
Once everything is ready, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, bright flavor and a pop of green that hints at the freshness of the broccoli. If you’re a Parmesan fan, don’t hesitate to add a little extra grated cheese on top before serving. Grab your favorite fork and dig into this soul-satisfying Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe that tastes like it took hours to prepare but came together in no time!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
The simple addition of chopped fresh parsley really elevates the dish by adding a herbaceous burst that cuts through the richness of the sauce. A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan just before serving adds an irresistible finishing touch, enhancing both the flavor and presentation. If you want to add a little zing, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can provide a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess.
Side Dishes
This dish is so rich and filling that light, fresh sides fit best. A crisp mixed green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance without competing with the bold flavors of the tortellini. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread can be an optional side to mop up any leftover sauce and add a comforting crunch to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe in individual shallow bowls topped with a whole sprig of parsley or a lemon wedge for color and zest. Another lovely option is to layer the dish in a clear glass casserole dish and bake briefly with extra cheese on top, creating a bubbly, golden crust that’s perfect for family-style dining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe holds up wonderfully for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, but be sure to reheat gently to preserve the texture of the tortellini.
Freezing
This recipe freezes fairly well, though it’s best to freeze before adding the Parmesan cheese to avoid texture changes. Place the cooked tortellini, chicken, and broccoli with the sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring often to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as this can cause the cheese sauce to become grainy.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time. Just shred or chop the chicken and toss it in at the end when combining all the ingredients. It will still taste amazing and add that comforting chicken goodness.
Is there a vegetarian option for this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe?
Yes! Simply skip the chicken and perhaps add extra broccoli or another vegetable like mushrooms or spinach. You could also add white beans for protein, keeping the creamy, cheesy sauce as the star.
What kind of cheese tortellini works best?
Fresh cheese tortellini offers the best texture and flavor, but good-quality frozen tortellini also works beautifully. Just follow the cooking instructions carefully to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this dish dairy-free or low-fat?
For a dairy-free or lighter version, try using coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. Keep in mind the flavor will change slightly but still be very delicious and creamy.
How do I ensure the broccoli stays bright green and crisp?
To maintain that vibrant color and slight crunch, steam or blanch the broccoli briefly, then immediately plunge it into ice water to stop cooking. This will keep it fresh and prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the warm sauce.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation. It’s comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make, offering a perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition that everyone at the table will love. Give it a try soon—you won’t regret it!
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a quick and delicious 25-minute meal combining tender cheese tortellini, juicy chicken breasts, and vibrant broccoli florets in a rich garlic and Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet balanced.
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
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or cooked)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until tender. Drain the tortellini well and set it aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes while stirring frequently to thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese and Combine: Stir the grated Parmesan cheese into the simmering sauce until fully melted and smooth. Add the cooked tortellini, chicken, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss all the ingredients together and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to heat everything through and marry the flavors.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the creamy tortellini hot for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Fresh tortellini cooks faster than frozen; adjust boiling time accordingly.
- Make sure not to burn the garlic when sautéing as it can turn bitter.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor, rather than pre-grated.
- Broccoli can be steamed or quickly blanched before adding to the dish for vibrant color and tender-crisp texture.
- If a lighter sauce is preferred, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
