Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Recipe
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a delightful one-pan meal that combines tender cheese-filled tortellini, juicy chicken, and crisp broccoli in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s a restaurant-quality dish that’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or an indulgent weekend treat. The creamy sauce clings to every bite, while the mix of protein, vegetables, and pasta ensures a satisfying, complete meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini
- For the Chicken and Broccoli:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- For the Sauce and Tortellini:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional Garnishes:
- Freshly chopped parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Directions to Prepare Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Steam the Broccoli:
- Add the broccoli florets to the same skillet with a splash of water. Cover and steam for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Melt the butter in the skillet, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Cook the Tortellini:
- Add the tortellini directly into the sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and coated in the creamy sauce.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the chicken and broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined and heated through. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations for Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli
- Protein Options: Swap the chicken for shrimp, sausage, or tofu for a different twist.
- Vegetable Additions: Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan for a lighter sauce.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from separating.
FAQs
1: Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
A: Yes, frozen tortellini works well. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen tortellini may take a bit longer to cook.
2: How can I make this dish spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
3: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and broccoli ahead of time. Store them separately, then combine and reheat with the sauce and tortellini when ready to serve.
4: Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sauce?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a dairy-free option.
5: Can I add other types of cheese to the sauce?
Absolutely! You can incorporate cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or Gruyère for added richness and flavor.
6: How can I keep the broccoli crisp?
Be sure to steam the broccoli only until it’s tender-crisp and avoid overcooking. You can also blanch the broccoli in boiling water for a minute and then transfer it to an ice bath before adding it to the dish.
7: What can I serve alongside this dish?
A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with this creamy pasta dish.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that delivers big on flavor and ease of preparation. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate different tastes and dietary needs. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli, it’s a complete meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s also a dish that allows for creativity in the kitchen, whether you choose to swap proteins, add extra veggies, or play with the spices.
Once you try it, this recipe will undoubtedly earn a spot in your regular rotation. From the first bite to the last, it promises satisfaction, comfort, and a burst of flavors that everyone at your table will enjoy. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients, and let this creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious meal become a new favorite in your home!