If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender chicken pieces, pillowy cheese tortellini, and vibrant broccoli all smothered in a rich, garlicky parmesan sauce that’s both comforting and indulgent. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy decadence and fresh, savory flavors, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough for company.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each bringing something special to the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe, enhancing its delicious layers of flavor, texture, and color.
- Chicken breasts (2, boneless, skinless): Provides tender, protein-packed bites that absorb the sauce beautifully.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps brown the chicken perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out natural flavors.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Lends a gentle garlicky foundation to the chicken.
- Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons, optional): Adds an earthy, herbaceous note that rounds out the dish.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): Creates a luscious base for the sauce with its rich creaminess.
- Minced garlic (4 cloves): Infuses the sauce with bold, aromatic garlic flavor.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Delivers the silky, dreamy texture that makes this dish irresistible.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Enhances the sauce’s depth with savory warmth without overpowering.
- Grated parmesan cheese (1 cup): Adds sharp, nutty savoriness and helps thicken the sauce perfectly.
- Cheese tortellini (20 oz, fresh or frozen): Pillowy pasta pockets that soak up the sauce for every delightful bite.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups, steamed or blanched): Bring a pop of color and fresh crunch that balances the creamy sauce.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped, optional): A bright, herbaceous garnish to finish the dish elegantly.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Sear the chicken in the hot skillet until golden brown and cooked through, which usually takes around 6 to 8 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest while you prepare the sauce. This step ensures your chicken stays juicy and flavorful.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Using the same skillet to keep all those lovely browned bits, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just long enough to release its fragrant aroma, about 1 to 2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently to combine everything. Let the mixture simmer so it thickens slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes. Now stir in the grated parmesan and Italian seasoning for even more flavor. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is irresistibly smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to taste and season with salt and pepper!
Step 3: Cook Tortellini and Broccoli
While your sauce is coming together, cook the tortellini following the package instructions—fresh tortellini usually takes just 2 to 4 minutes, whereas frozen might need a bit longer. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they’re tender but still bright green, about 4 to 5 minutes. Drain both well so they don’t dilute the sauce later on.
Step 4: Assemble Everything
Return the cooked chicken and tortellini to the skillet with your creamy garlic parmesan sauce. Add the steamed broccoli on top and gently toss everything together, making sure every piece is luxuriously coated in that sauce. If you like, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley brighten the dish and add a fresh herbal finish. You might also scatter some extra grated parmesan or a light drizzle of good quality olive oil to elevate the presentation without overpowering the flavors.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe shines as a complete meal, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread is a fantastic choice for adding texture and complementing the rich, creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a touch of elegance, serve the tortellini in warm bowls, nestling the chicken pieces and broccoli so they peek through the sauce. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or toasted pine nuts can bring a delightful surprise to every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a great option for next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but the texture of broccoli might soften slightly upon thawing. Freeze in portions without the broccoli for best results, then add fresh steamed broccoli when reheating.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to keep everything creamy and prevent sticking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time as frozen tortellini usually takes a couple of minutes longer than fresh. Make sure to drain well before mixing with the sauce.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, but keep in mind the sauce might not be as thick or rich. Heavy cream really gives it that luscious texture.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more broccoli or other veggies like mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes to keep it hearty and delicious.
What type of parmesan cheese is best?
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano offers the best flavor and smooth melting texture. Pre-grated versions often contain anti-caking agents that can affect how the sauce forms.
How do I prevent the sauce from splitting?
Make sure to gently simmer the sauce instead of boiling it vigorously once the cream is added. Stirring continuously helps keep it smooth and silky.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe a whirl because it’s one of those dishes that feel comforting and indulgent, yet surprisingly simple to make. Every bite delivers a combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with fresh greens and tender chicken that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. Once you try it, this recipe might just become your go-to when you want something both quick and special.
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breast, cheesy tortellini, and fresh broccoli florets all smothered in a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it makes a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Vegetables
- 20 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning if using.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning if using. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook Tortellini: While the sauce simmers, cook the tortellini according to package instructions, typically 2-4 minutes for fresh or longer for frozen. Drain when done.
- Prepare Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until tender, about 4-5 minutes, then drain thoroughly.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked tortellini and chicken back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Then add the steamed broccoli and toss all together until everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve hot for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Fresh tortellini cooks faster and has a softer texture than frozen.
- To add extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid breaking the sauce.
