This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken tortellini is a delightful treat! With cheesy tortellini, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli, it’s both tasty and filling.
You’ll love how quick and easy it is to make! I often whip it up on busy nights—just toss everything together and enjoy a bowl of comfort in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. If you’re looking for a quicker option, rotisserie chicken is a great substitute. Just shred it and add it in at the end!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add color and nutrition. If you don’t have fresh, frozen broccoli works well too—just make sure to thaw it before adding.
Tortellini: I recommend using refrigerated cheese tortellini for the best texture. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free tortellini available at many stores.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even milk, but your sauce may not be as creamy. If you’re dairy-free, consider using coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor, but you can use pre-grated if that’s what you have. Nutritional yeast is an excellent substitute for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Get the Sauce to Be Creamy and Delicious?
The key to a creamy sauce is not to rush it! Here’s my method to ensure it turns out perfect:
- After sautéing the garlic and onions, add the chicken broth and cream, stirring well. Let this mixture come to a gentle simmer to blend the flavors.
- Once you add the tortellini, keep the lid on to trap steam and cook them thoroughly. This will also help the sauce thicken a bit.
- Finally, mix in Parmesan cheese gradually while stirring. This will create a smooth, rich sauce. If it’s too thick, feel free to add a little more chicken broth!
Patience is key here—taking your time will reward you with a delicious, creamy dish!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 package (about 9 oz/250g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning or dried basil
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy garlic Parmesan chicken tortellini with broccoli will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and around 20 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, check if it needs more oil. If it does, add a tiny splash. Now add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté them together until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent, which takes about 2-3 minutes.
3. Adding the Broccoli:
Next, toss in the fresh broccoli florets. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until they are bright green and slightly tender. The color will signal that they’re getting just right!
4. Creating the Creamy Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine everything. Bring this mix to a gentle simmer, which will enhance the flavors.
5. Cooking the Tortellini:
Now it’s time to add the tortellini! Cover the skillet and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and fluffy.
6. Final Touches:
Stir in the cooked chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken a bit and the cheese to melt. It’ll smell amazing!
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you love a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes at this point!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your delicious creation with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, comforting garlic chicken tortellini with broccoli!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well in this dish. Just make sure to thaw it beforehand by placing it in the fridge overnight or quickly microwaving it. Reduce the cooking time for the frozen broccoli to about 2-3 minutes after adding it to the skillet.
Can I Substitute the Cream for a Healthier Option?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or even milk for a lighter version, though the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative for great flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers Properly?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy tortellini pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with more steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal!
