This creamy garlic parmesan chicken tortellini with broccoli is a comforting dish that brings tasty flavors together. The tender tortellini, juicy chicken, and fresh broccoli swim in a rich, cheesy sauce!
Honestly, who can resist that lovely garlic aroma while cooking? I like to add a few extra sprinkles of cheese on top—because why not make it even cheesier? 😄
This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy nights. Toss it all in one pot and enjoy a creamy delight that’s sure to please the whole family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish, but you can easily swap them for thighs. Thighs add a bit more flavor and juiciness, which I personally love!
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is really what makes this dish creamy and comforting. If you can’t find tortellini, any small pasta like mini shells or bowties could work as a good substitute. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds color and nutrition. If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works just as well. Just add it to the skillet a minute or two earlier to ensure it cooks through.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half and half or even a milk alternative, but keep in mind the sauce may be less rich. I love the creamy texture that heavy cream brings!
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Sauce Without Curdling?
The key to a creamy sauce is to control your heat and the ingredients you add. Here are some steps to ensure your sauce comes out smooth:
- Cook garlic on low to medium heat to avoid burning it, which can make the sauce bitter.
- When adding cream, make sure the skillet isn’t too hot—just bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
- Add Parmesan gradually. This allows it to melt evenly into the cream, creating a silky texture.
By following these tips, you’re sure to whip up a delicious, creamy sauce every time!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini With Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp butter
- For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- For the Pasta:
- 1 package (9 oz/250g) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 20 minutes to cook. In total, you can expect to spend around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn.
3. Add the Broccoli:
Next, add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. This adds a lovely fresh crunch to the dish!
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will make the base of your creamy sauce!
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the tortellini to the skillet (no need to thaw if using frozen). Gently stir to combine and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. The tortellini should be al dente, and the sauce will thicken slightly.
6. Combine Everything:
Slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Then, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together to heat through.
7. Season to Taste:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This step lets you customize the flavor to your liking!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy garlic parmesan chicken tortellini hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if you like. It makes for a lovely presentation and adds a touch of freshness!
Enjoy your delicious and creamy meal! Perfect for comforting dinners or impressing guests! 🌟
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini With Broccoli
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While broccoli is great, you can add other veggies like spinach, peas, or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on how quickly you want them to soften.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. However, keep in mind that the sauce may be less creamy. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut milk or a nut-based cream substitute.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave, ensuring the dish heats evenly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then just add the tortellini and broccoli when you’re ready to serve. This will save you time and still have a fresh-tasting dish!
