Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender cheese tortellini combines with juicy chicken pieces and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it offers a perfect balance of protein, greens, and indulgent flavor that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (plus extra if needed)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or cooked)
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Boil the cheese tortellini in a large pot of salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season them with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked tortellini, chicken, and steamed broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir everything thoroughly to coat all the ingredients evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Final Touches: Let the mixture cook together for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve the creamy garlic Parmesan tortellini warm. Optionally, garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese for an added flavor boost.
Notes
- Fresh or frozen tortellini can be used; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Steaming broccoli prior ensures it stays crisp and bright in color.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but expect a less rich texture.
- For an extra kick, add crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
