Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

Published: May 11, 2025

by Olivia

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
The rich flavors blend perfectly, creating an irresistible taste sensation.
With its gorgeous presentation, it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.
Versatile enough for any occasion, it adapts beautifully to what you have on hand.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are perfect for this recipe; feel free to adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Use six cloves for that robust flavor; fresh is always best!
Broccoli Florets: Choose fresh florets for optimal color and crunch; about 2 cups will do.
Tortellini: Any type works well here—cheese or spinach-filled are delightful choices.

For the Sauce:

Heavy Cream: This is the secret to that luscious texture; don’t skimp!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds depth and richness that pre-grated simply can’t match.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
Olive Oil: Use it to sauté your chicken and garlic; it adds flavor and helps prevent sticking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the sizzling pan. Cook for about six minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked through, remove from heat and let them rest.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet (yes, we love one-pan wonders!), toss in minced garlic. Cook for about one minute until fragrant but not browned – we want it golden deliciousness without bitterness!

Step 3: Add Broccoli

Next up is our bright green hero—toss in those broccoli florets! Stir them around with the garlic for another three minutes until they turn vibrant and tender-crisp.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Pour in one cup of heavy cream into your pan along with one cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts into a dreamy sauce that coats everything perfectly.

Step 5: Cook Tortellini

While you’re preparing that creamy goodness, boil your tortellini according to package instructions in salted water until they float—about four minutes should do! Drain and add them directly into your skillet.

Step 6: Combine & Serve

Gently fold everything together—the chicken, broccoli, tortellini, and creamy sauce—until well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Transfer to plates or serve family-style straight from the skillet!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy—it’s all about those finishing touches! Enjoy every creamy bite paired with laughter and good company!

You Must Know

This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook the tortellini while preparing the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. This efficient sequence ensures everything is ready at the same time, making your dinner both delicious and stress-free.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. You can also play with seasonings—try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or fresh herbs for brightness.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it creamy and prevent dryness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always taste your sauce before serving to adjust seasonings as needed.
For extra creaminess, consider adding more Parmesan cheese right before serving.
Lastly, don’t overcook your tortellini; they should be tender but still have a slight bite!

It was one of those chaotic weeknights when I decided to whip up this dish. My friends were raving about how creamy and comforting it was—I knew I had struck gold!

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli?

To make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli, you will need tortellini pasta, chicken breast, fresh broccoli florets, garlic, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include crushed red pepper for heat and fresh parsley for garnish. This simple yet delicious dish combines savory flavors and creamy textures to create a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

To adapt Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini to be vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the chicken and replace it with hearty vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor. Just ensure you select cheese-filled tortellini or use a plant-based alternative if needed. This adaptation maintains the creamy texture while providing a delightful vegetarian option.

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli! Frozen broccoli is convenient and saves preparation time. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to your dish. This way, your sauce remains creamy without becoming watery. The frozen broccoli will still taste great and provide essential nutrients in this comforting meal.

How do I store leftovers of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini?

To store leftovers of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of cream or broth can help restore the sauce’s creaminess during reheating.

Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a delightful dish that balances flavors and textures perfectly. By using fresh ingredients like chicken and broccoli alongside rich garlic cream sauce and Parmesan cheese, this recipe impresses both family and friends. It’s easy to customize and can accommodate various dietary preferences as well. Enjoy making this comfort food classic that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

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