Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Chicken & Broccoli Recipe

Whipping up a delectable garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli always sparks excitement in my kitchen.

Comfort meets elegance through this simple yet impressive meal.

Pasta lovers appreciate how quickly such a sophisticated dish comes together.

Crisp broccoli florets and tender chicken pieces nestle perfectly among cheese-filled tortellini.

Fragrant garlic weaves its magic through each delightful bite, creating layers of rich flavor.

Parmesan’s sharp notes add depth and complexity to this creamy masterpiece.

Dive right in and let your taste buds celebrate this irresistible combination.

Why Creamy Tortellini Chicken Is a Family Favorite

• Speed Up Dinner: Quickly prepare a restaurant-quality meal with minimal cooking steps and just one skillet, perfect for busy weeknights when time is precious.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Pack multiple crowd-favorite ingredients like cheesy tortellini, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli into a single delicious dish that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Customize with Ease: Swap proteins, adjust vegetable quantities, or experiment with seasonings to match your family's taste preferences without compromising the recipe's core creamy goodness.
• Nutritional Balance: Combine protein-rich chicken, calcium-packed cheese, and vitamin-loaded broccoli for a well-rounded meal that satisfies hunger and supports healthy eating goals.

Ingredients for This Cheesy Broccoli Tortellini

• Cheese Tortellini: Soft pasta pockets filled with creamy cheese that form the base of this comforting dish.
• Chicken: Protein-rich meat that adds hearty flavor and substance to the meal.
• Broccoli: Nutritious green vegetable that provides a fresh and slightly crunchy element.

• Heavy Cream: Rich dairy ingredient that creates a smooth and luxurious sauce base.
• Parmesan Cheese: Salty and sharp cheese that enhances the sauce's depth and creaminess.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that adds intense and bold flavor to the entire dish.

• Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper, Italian Seasoning: Basic seasonings that enhance the overall taste and help cook the chicken with depth.
• Fresh Parsley: Optional garnish that adds a pop of color and fresh herb flavor.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Boil Tortellini

Grab a pot of water and bring it to a rolling boil. Drop the cheese tortellini into the bubbling water and cook exactly as the package tells you.

Once they’re perfectly tender, drain the water and set the tortellini aside.

Step 2: Sear Tender Chicken

Grab a large skillet and warm up some olive oil over medium heat.

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning

Cook the chicken until it turns a beautiful golden brown and is completely cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a separate plate.

Step 3: Create Luxurious Sauce

Using the same skillet, add minced garlic and let it dance around for 1-2 minutes until it becomes wonderfully aromatic. Pour in heavy cream and sprinkle Parmesan cheese.

Stir gently until the sauce transforms into a silky smooth mixture. Let it bubble softly for 3-4 minutes to develop a rich consistency.

Step 4: Marry the Ingredients

Slide the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli into the creamy sauce. Stir everything together so each morsel gets coated in the luscious sauce.

Step 5: Incorporate Tortellini

Add the reserved tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring each pasta pillow gets completely embraced by the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Plate

If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top. Serve this delightful dish piping hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement.

Tips That Help This Pasta Dish Stand Out

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor and creamier texture in the sauce.
• Steam broccoli separately to maintain its bright green color and prevent overcooking during the final mixing.
• For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt to reduce calories.
• Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer.
• Add red pepper flakes for extra heat or include sun-dried tomatoes for additional depth and tanginess.

New Twists to Try with Chicken Tortellini

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternative, sautéed until golden. Use vegetable broth instead of cream for a lighter sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular tortellini with gluten-free cheese tortellini. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Substitute tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi. Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for reduced calories.
• Mediterranean Remix: Add sun-dried tomatoes, swap Italian seasoning for oregano, and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a Mediterranean-inspired version.

Best Side Dishes for a Cheesy Bowl Meal

• Perfectly Pair Wine Selections: Choose a crisp Chardonnay or light Pinot Grigio to complement the creamy sauce and cut through the richness of the dish.
• Complementary Side Salad: Prepare a zesty arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the heavy, creamy tortellini and provide a fresh contrast.
• Enhance with Bread Pairing: Serve warm garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious Parmesan cream sauce and add textural variety.
• Refresh with Beverage: Opt for sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a light citrus spritzer to cleanse the palate between bites of the rich chicken tortellini.

Storage Tips for Tortellini Pasta and Broccoli

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Let the dish cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Transfer cooled tortellini to a freezer-safe container, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Place portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed.

Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore sauce’s creamy consistency. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

FAQs

• Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, most children love this creamy tortellini because it has mild flavors, cheese, and tender chicken that make it appealing to young eaters.

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly and saves time. Just thaw and steam it before adding to the skillet.

• What type of cheese tortellini works best?

Refrigerated cheese tortellini from the pasta section is recommended for the best texture and flavor. Fresh or frozen varieties both work well.

• How can I make this dish healthier?

You can reduce the heavy cream by using half-and-half or milk, use less Parmesan, and add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutritional value.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Chicken & Broccoli Recipe

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4.6 from 10 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy garlic parmesan tortellini dances with tender chicken and crisp broccoli, creating a luxurious meal that promises comfort in every bite. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, delivering a restaurant-quality dinner you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Pasta and Vegetables:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched

Sauce and Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare cheese tortellini according to package directions until al dente, then drain and reserve.
2. Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Sear in hot olive oil over medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes until golden and thoroughly cooked, then transfer to a separate plate.
3. Reduce skillet heat to medium and sauté minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until aromatic, releasing its fragrant oils.
4. Pour heavy cream into the skillet, whisking continuously while gradually incorporating Parmesan cheese until sauce transforms into a smooth, velvety consistency. Simmer for 3-4 minutes to develop depth and slightly thicken.
5. Steam broccoli florets until vibrant green and tender-crisp, ensuring they maintain a slight crunch.
6. Incorporate cooked chicken and steamed broccoli into the creamy sauce, gently stirring to distribute ingredients evenly.
7. Fold tortellini into the skillet, carefully coating each pasta pocket with the rich, garlicky sauce.
8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, herbaceous finish. Serve immediately while sauce remains warm and luxurious.

Notes

• Opt for fresh tortellini from the refrigerated section for the best texture and flavor, as they cook faster and taste more authentic than dried varieties.
• Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and prevent drying out during the process.
• Steam broccoli briefly to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp-tender texture, preventing it from becoming mushy in the creamy sauce.
• Grate Parmesan cheese fresh from a block for maximum flavor intensity and smoother sauce consistency compared to pre-packaged shredded cheese.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 590 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg