There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a creamy pasta dish after a long day, and this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli fits the bill perfectly. As I stirred the rich sauce in my skillet, the inviting aroma of sizzling garlic began to fill my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and soft, cheesy tortellini creates a delightful harmony that has become a staple in my home.
Not only is this dish quick and easy to make—taking only 30 minutes from prep to plate—but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that can transform any weeknight dinner into a celebration. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly meal or something to impress last-minute guests, this recipe checks all the boxes: it’s creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Get ready to bring a touch of indulgence to your dining table without the fuss of takeout!
Why You'll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli
- This recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you're short on time.
- The bold flavors of garlic and parmesan create a deliciously rich sauce that will leave everyone at the table craving more.
- It's also versatile; you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
- Plus, the vibrant colors of the dish make it visually appealing, ensuring that it will impress your family and friends alike.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Ingredients
• Get ready for a delightful dish!
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Provides lean protein that cooks quickly and evenly.
• Olive oil – Used for sautéing the chicken and adds flavor; you can substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
For the Seasoning
• Salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• Black pepper – Adds a touch of heat; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.
• Garlic powder – Gives an extra kick of flavor; fresh garlic can be a substitute for a bolder taste.
• Italian seasoning – A delightful blend that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
For the Sauce
• Butter – Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Minced garlic – Fresh garlic infuses a wonderful aroma and flavor; don’t skip this step!
• Heavy cream – Key ingredient for creating that luscious, creamy texture.
• Chicken broth – Balances the creaminess and contributes to the overall flavor profile.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – The star of the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce; use freshly grated for the best taste.
For the Pasta & Veggie
• Cheese tortellini – Adds delightful texture and cheesy goodness; can be substituted with pasta of your choice.
• Fresh broccoli florets – Adds color and a nutritious crunch; you can use frozen broccoli if preferred.
With these ingredients, you'll be well on your way to creating a comforting bowl of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli that everyone will love!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli
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Heat the Oil: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
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Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
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Make the Sauce: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Cook the Tortellini: Prepare the tortellini according to the package instructions, then drain well. This will ensure it’s perfectly cooked and ready to absorb all that creamy goodness.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked tortellini and steamed broccoli to the skillet with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Gently stir to coat everything evenly, letting the flavors mingle.
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Mix in the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix until well distributed. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to fit your taste, ensuring every bite is delicious.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired for a splash of color and freshness.
Optional: Top with additional Parmesan for extra cheesiness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli?
There's nothing like a cozy gathering around the dinner table, especially with a comforting meal that balances creamy, savory flavors and fresh veggies.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, crispy exterior with buttery garlic goodness perfectly complements the rich tortellini, making every bite memorable.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with a tangy dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the creamy sauce, finishing your meal with a delightful crunch.
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender, lightly charred asparagus drizzled with lemon balances the creaminess of the tortellini, bringing a touch of brightness to your plate.
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Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy, cheesy treats make for a savory snack or garnish, enhancing the Parmesan flavor in the dish while adding a satisfying texture.
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Oven-Roasted Vegetables: Vibrant seasonal veggies, lightly seasoned and roasted, bring warmth and earthy flavors, perfectly complementing the creamy, cheesy goodness of the tortellini.
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Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of the dish, enhancing the creamy sauce and bringing out the garlic's essence.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse provides a luscious ending to your culinary experience, balancing the richness of the main dish with its smooth texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the chicken and prepare the creamy garlic sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply season and sauté the chicken, then let it cool before refrigerating. For the sauce, combine the garlic, cream, broth, and Parmesan, and store it in an airtight container. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on the stove, cook the tortellini (which only takes a few minutes), then mix in the prepped chicken and steamed broccoli. This approach keeps everything just as delicious while saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini
Fridge: Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep it fresh and flavorful for your next meal.
Freezer: You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and leave some space for the sauce to expand as it freezes.
Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat in a skillet over low heat. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth to refresh the creamy sauce!
Portioning: For hassle-free meals, consider freezing in individual servings. This way, you can easily enjoy a delicious bowl whenever you crave comfort food without the fast food temptation!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Variations
Customize your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with delightful twists that will elevate this comforting dish to new heights!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese to keep it creamy and delicious.
- Vegetable Boost: Add vibrant bell peppers or spinach for an extra pop of color and nutrition. These veggies not only look great but also bring fresh flavors.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a zesty twist that will ignite your senses! The heat balances beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Whole Grain: Swap traditional cheese tortellini for whole wheat or gluten-free tortellini for a heartier option that’s equally satisfying.
- Protein Variations: Instead of chicken, try shrimp or sautéed mushrooms for a seafood or vegetarian delight that still delivers on flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the sauce with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant and aromatic finish. Just a sprinkle brings freshness and enhances the overall taste.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added texture and a delightful nutty crunch that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Savory Bacon: Toss in some cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor that takes this dish to another level. The combination of bacon and cream is simply irresistible!
Now, let your creativity run wild and make this dish your own!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When cooking your chicken for the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli, ensure it's at room temperature before seasoning to achieve even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet when sautéing the garlic to prevent burning; keep the heat moderate for the best flavor release.
- For a silky sauce, gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese and remove the skillet from direct heat to prevent it from clumping.
- Remember to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining the tortellini, as it can be a great addition to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for those that are firm and plump without any dark spots or an unpleasant odor. Fresh chicken is always preferable, but if you need to, you can use frozen chicken as well. Just ensure it's completely thawed before cooking for even cooking results.
What are the best storage methods for leftovers?
Very good question! Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish by using a freezer-safe container and leaving some space for expansion due to freezing; it can last for up to 2 months!
Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini, and if so, how?
Yes! Freezing is a great option for this dish. Here's how: first, let the tortellini cool completely after cooking. Then, portion it into individual servings in freezer-safe containers or use freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to revive the sauce.
What should I do if my sauce isn't thickening properly?
If your sauce isn’t thickening as you’d like, don’t worry! You can gradually stir in a bit more grated Parmesan cheese or even a sprinkling of cornstarch mixed with cold water. As a step-by-step solution, start by whisking 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth, then add that mixture to your sauce while stirring continuously over low heat. This should help you achieve that creamy consistency!
Is this recipe suitable for anyone with dairy allergies?
Unfortunately, this recipe is not suitable for those with dairy allergies due to the heavy cream and cheese used. However, you can try substituting dairy-free cream alternatives and nutritional yeast for the Parmesan, which can create a similar creamy texture and cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just keep in mind that modifications may change the overall taste a bit.
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! The more the merrier! Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies. Spinach, peas, or even roasted red peppers would work beautifully in this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli recipe. Just remember to consider cooking times; add veggies that might cook faster towards the end of the simmering process!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Prepare the tortellini according to the package instructions, then drain well.
- Add the cooked tortellini and steamed broccoli to the skillet with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Gently stir to coat everything evenly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix until well distributed. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
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