Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is the kind of dish that hits all the right notes—creamy, savory, and satisfying. It’s made with everyday ingredients but delivers restaurant-quality flavor. The cheesy tortellini adds a rich, comforting element, while the broccoli brings freshness and balance. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for quick dinners without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
1 lb chicken breast, cubed
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
1 tbsp olive oil
-
3 cups broccoli florets
-
1 lb cheese tortellini
-
3 tbsp butter
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1/2 cup chicken broth
-
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
Directions
-
Season the cubed chicken breast with salt and pepper.
-
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
-
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
-
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to blend. Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
-
While the sauce is coming together, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package directions. Add the broccoli to the pot during the last 2 minutes of cooking to blanch. Drain both and set aside.
-
Return the cooked chicken, tortellini, and broccoli to the skillet with the garlic Parmesan sauce. Stir to combine and warm through.
-
Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top if desired, and serve hot.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 600 kcal per serving
Variations
-
Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add more veggies like mushrooms or spinach.
-
Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or stir in a spoonful of chili paste.
-
Protein Swap: Use shrimp or Italian sausage instead of chicken.
-
Low-Carb Option: Serve the garlic Parmesan sauce over roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
-
Extra Cheesy: Stir in a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for more cheesy richness.
-
Lighter Sauce: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk.
-
Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat tortellini for added fiber.
-
Bacon Boost: Add crumbled cooked bacon for a smoky touch.
-
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure the broth is gluten-free.
-
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh finish.
Storage/Reheating
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
What kind of tortellini should I use?
Use cheese-filled tortellini, either fresh or refrigerated. Frozen tortellini also works—just adjust cooking time as needed.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Simply shred and add it to the sauce when combining all ingredients.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time. Cook the tortellini and broccoli fresh before serving for best texture.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version.
How do I keep the sauce from clumping?
Add Parmesan gradually and stir constantly to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s creamy and cheesy—perfect for picky eaters. Just skip the red pepper flakes if you’re avoiding spice.
Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not ideal for freezing due to the dairy content, which can separate when thawed. Fresh is best.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should be golden on the outside and no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer if needed—it should reach 165°F.
Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
Yes, but freshly grated Parmesan will melt more smoothly and give a better texture to the sauce.
What vegetables go well in this dish besides broccoli?
Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or peas are all great additions or substitutions.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is a simple yet decadent meal that brings comfort and flavor in every bite. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, cheesy pasta, and vibrant broccoli, this dish is sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, it’s a recipe that delivers delicious results every time.
