If you are on the hunt for a comforting yet elegant dish that comes together in just about 25 minutes, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe is an absolute winner. Packed with tender pieces of chicken, vibrant green broccoli, and delicate cheese tortellini all swathed in a luscious, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce, this dish is like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you are cooking for a weeknight dinner or looking to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe balances rich flavors and simple ingredients in perfect harmony. Trust me, once you try this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in delivering the comfort and richness of the dish while keeping preparation manageable and fun.
- 12 oz cheese tortellini: Choose fresh or frozen for a luscious, pillowy base that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure every forkful has juicy, flavorful protein.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For perfectly browning the chicken without overpowering the delicate garlic flavors.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: This is the aromatic heart of the sauce that will fill your kitchen with an irresistible scent.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to the dish’s velvety, rich texture that clings lovingly to every piece of tortellini.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and balances the creaminess while enhancing the savory notes.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Freshly grated for optimal melt and a sharp, nutty flavor that defines the sauce.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Steamed or cooked to vibrant green perfection for a fresh, healthy contrast.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning that brings all the flavors into focus.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend that adds subtle herbaceous undertones for an effortlessly balanced dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish—a splash of bright color and fresh flavor to finish the meal.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is important because it flavors the pasta right from the start. Toss in the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package directions, typically just a few minutes for fresh or slightly longer for frozen. Once tender and floating, drain the tortellini and set them aside to keep warm. This step creates the perfect tender base to soak up your creamy sauce later on.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next, heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them liberally with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning. Cooking the chicken until golden brown and cooked through—usually about 5 to 6 minutes—creates a flavorful, caramelized crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside; we’ll be combining it with the sauce very soon.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the very same skillet that held the chicken (this is flavor magic right here), add the minced garlic and sauté it for 30 seconds until it releases that wonderful aroma. Quickly stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes while stirring frequently—this allows the cream to thicken just enough to coat everything perfectly.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine
Now for the best part: stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. As it melts, the sauce will become silky smooth and packed with bold, cheesy goodness. Add back the cooked tortellini, golden chicken pieces, and vibrant broccoli florets to the skillet, tossing everything together gently. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes so all the flavors meld and the dish is warmed through completely.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer your creation to plates or a serving bowl, then garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you like. Serve this warm, creamy delight straight away while the sauce is perfectly luscious and the broccoli bright and tender. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky, cheesy bite!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is my favorite way to top this dish because it adds a pop of green and a subtle herbal lift that cuts through the richness beautifully. You could also sprinkle some toasted pine nuts for crunch or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil at the end adds a glossy finish and an extra touch of richness.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe is a satisfying meal on its own, but if you want to add sides, think light and fresh. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables can complement the richness without overwhelming the palate. Crusty garlic bread is also a classic choice to mop up every last bit of that gorgeous sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve this dish straight from a beautiful skillet, allowing everyone to dig in and share the love. For dinner parties, plate individual portions with a little extra Parmesan and a sprig of parsley for a refined touch. You could also stuff the tortellini mixture into bell peppers and bake for a creative twist that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken in the fridge, but don’t worry—reheating will bring it back to creamy perfection.
Freezing
While freezing cream-based pasta dishes can sometimes alter the texture, you can freeze this recipe if needed. Portion it out into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. To help preserve texture, you may choose to freeze it without the broccoli and add fresh florets when reheating. It will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating
For the best results, gently reheat leftovers over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir frequently to ensure it warms evenly and stays creamy. Avoid microwaving without stirring, as this can cause the sauce to separate. Once hot and bubbly, you are ready to enjoy again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini provides a lovely pocket of flavor and texture, you can substitute with gnocchi, ravioli, or even penne if you prefer. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Yes! You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce. Just be sure to avoid high heat when cooking to prevent curdling. Using less cheese or a reduced-fat option can also help lighten the dish.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a busy weeknight?
This recipe works well for make-ahead meals. Cook everything except for the final sauce step, which you can prepare fresh before serving. Alternatively, fully cook and store the dish, then warm it up when ready to eat.
What’s the best way to cook the broccoli for this dish?
Steaming broccoli florets until just tender is ideal because it maintains their bright color and slight crunch, which contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy, so keep an eye on the timing.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken in this recipe?
Definitely! If you want to save time, shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully. Just add it toward the end to warm through without cooking it further. This is a great shortcut to keep the recipe quick and easy.
Final Thoughts
If you love cozy pasta dishes that feel like a special treat but are surprisingly simple to whip up, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe will become one of your cherished kitchen staples. With its rich, comforting sauce, hearty chicken, and fresh greens, every bite is pure joy—and trust me, your family and friends will be asking for seconds. So grab those ingredients and give this recipe a try; I promise it will fill your home with delicious aromas and your heart with warmth.
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a quick and comforting pasta dish featuring tender cheese tortellini, juicy pan-seared chicken, and nutritious broccoli florets tossed in a rich and velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
Chicken & Vegetables
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or cooked)
Sauce & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the tortellini and set it aside for later use.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Add Cheese and Combine: Stir grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Return the cooked tortellini, chicken, and steamed broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together gently and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through and well coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh tortellini for a creamier texture or frozen for convenience.
- Broccoli can be steamed ahead of time for quicker assembly.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it.
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic.
- To make the dish lighter, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk-based alternative, but the sauce may be less rich.
