This creamy garlic parmesan tortellini dish is a winner! It features tender tortellini, juicy chicken, and vibrant broccoli, all soaked in a dreamy garlic sauce that brings it together.
Whenever I make this, the kitchen smells amazing! It’s easy to whip up after a long day—just cook, mix, and enjoy! Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortellini: I love using cheese tortellini for its rich flavor. If you can’t find it, consider using pasta like farfalle or fusilli. Just adjust cooking time as needed!
Chicken: Boneless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish, but you could easily substitute with cooked rotisserie chicken for some added convenience. You can even use diced turkey or shrimp if you prefer!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that punch of flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but I recommend using more if you go that route.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives a nice crunch and color. If you don’t have it, frozen broccoli florets can save time. Just cook them a little less when adding to the skillet.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully in the sauce. For a quicker option, pre-grated works too, but skip the powdery stuff. Pecorino Romano is another tasty alternative!
How Do You Make the Sauce Creamy and Delicious?
The sauce’s creaminess is essential to this dish. Here’s how to get it just right:
- After sautéing the garlic, add in the heavy cream and let it come to a gentle simmer. This helps thicken it gradually.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese a little at a time and mix until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add chicken broth or even a splash of pasta cooking water.
- Always taste your sauce before serving! Adjust with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for that perfect kick.
Follow these techniques, and you’ll have a rich, creamy sauce that’s a joy to eat with every bite!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Chicken & Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 package (9-12 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes, for a mild kick
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s super quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Just boil, sauté, and mix — you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Tortellini:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, gently add the refrigerated cheese tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they are al dente. Drain the tortellini and set them aside for later.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning them with salt, black pepper, and the dried Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Garlic and Broccoli:
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, toss in the fresh broccoli florets and chicken broth. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender while still keeping its vibrant green color.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now it’s time to make it creamy! Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the cup of heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add Parmesan and Combine:
Sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and mix it into the sauce until it melts smoothly. If the sauce seems too thick, feel free to add a bit more chicken broth or cream to reach the desired consistency.
6. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked chicken and tortellini back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated in that rich, creamy sauce. Don’t forget to taste and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed! You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little extra heat if you like.
7. Plate and Garnish:
Once everything is well mixed, it’s ready to be served! Garnish your creamy garlic Parmesan tortellini with freshly chopped parsley for a beautiful finish. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini With Chicken & Broccoli
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just cook them according to the package instructions, which may take a few extra minutes compared to refrigerated ones. Don’t forget to adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less creamy, so you might want to add a bit more Parmesan cheese for richness.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat. You might need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creaminess!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This dish is versatile. Feel free to toss in vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed so everything remains tender and delicious!
