This creamy garlic parmesan chicken tortellini with broccoli is a warm hug in a bowl! You’ll enjoy tender tortellini covered in a rich, cheesy sauce mixed with juicy chicken and bright broccoli.
Nothing beats the easy prep! I love how quickly this dish comes together, perfect for busy nights. Plus, you get all the flavors and smiles in just one pot. It’s a win-win! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they cook quickly. You can use rotisserie chicken to save time or swap in cooked shrimp or tofu for a different protein.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives a nice crunch and color. If you’re short on fresh veggies, frozen broccoli works too. Just add it at the same time you add the broth.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini adds flavor, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand! Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type; follow package instructions.
Cream: Heavy cream makes it rich, but you can substitute with half-and-half or a lower-fat milk for a lighter option. Just know it might not be as creamy.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for melting and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated cheese will work but won’t be as fresh and tasty. Nutritional yeast can be a dairy-free option too.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor From Garlic and Onion?
Getting the flavors just right from garlic and onion is key. To maximize their taste, cook them gently:
- Heat the skillet over medium heat. This prevents burning and allows flavors to develop.
- After adding them to the pan, stir regularly. You want the onion soft and translucent without browning—about 2-3 minutes.
This method will release their sweetness and create a flavorful base for your sauce. Enjoy the delightful aroma in your kitchen!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 (9 oz/250 g) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or basil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30-35 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20-25 minutes cooking everything in one pan. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Onion:
In the same pan, add the butter, followed by the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant and the onion is translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
3. Add the Broccoli:
Next, add the broccoli florets to the pan and sauté for another 3-4 minutes, just until they are bright green and slightly tender.
4. Combine Broth and Cream:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the creamy goodness begins!
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the refrigerated tortellini directly to the pan. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure nothing sticks. You want the tortellini to be tender and heated through.
6. Make it Creamy:
Once the tortellini is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it melts and creates a rich, creamy sauce.
7. Return the Chicken:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix everything together thoroughly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Final Touches:
Let everything cook together for an additional 2 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and thicken the sauce slightly.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the pan from heat, and if you like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving. Dive in and enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and comforting Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option, or swap the chicken for shrimp or firm tofu for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth if needed to bring back the creamy texture.
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta Instead of Tortellini?
Yes, you can! Any pasta will work, just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose. Follow the package instructions for the best results.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
To lighten it up, consider using half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of heavy cream. You can also add more veggies, such as bell peppers or spinach, for extra nutrients and flavor!
