Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy pasta, and this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is no exception. The combination of tender cheese-filled tortellini, juicy pan-seared chicken, and crisp-tender broccoli, all smothered in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, makes this dish irresistible. It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and nourishment, packed with bold flavors and a luscious, creamy texture.

I love how this recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means minimal cleanup—always a bonus in my book! Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli

• Quick and easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• One-pan meal – Less mess and fewer dishes to clean up.
• Rich and creamy – A velvety garlic Parmesan sauce that coats every bite.
• Protein-packed – Juicy chicken adds a hearty and satisfying element.
• Balanced flavors – The freshness of broccoli cuts through the richness perfectly.
• Family favorite – Even picky eaters will love this indulgent, cheesy pasta.

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What Kind of Tortellini Should I Use?

When it comes to tortellini, you have a few options, and the best choice depends on your preference and convenience. Fresh tortellini (found in the refrigerated section) is ideal for this dish because it cooks quickly and has a tender, delicate texture. If you’re in a hurry, this is your best bet.

If you only have frozen tortellini, don’t worry! It works just as well, though it may take an extra minute or two to cook. Dried tortellini is another option, but it tends to have a firmer bite and requires a longer cooking time. No matter which type you use, make sure to cook the tortellini just until it’s al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the creamy sauce.

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Options for Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some great alternatives:

• Chicken Substitutes – Swap chicken for shrimp, Italian sausage, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• Tortellini Filling – Cheese tortellini is classic, but you can try spinach, mushroom, or even meat-filled tortellini for a twist.
• Broccoli Alternatives – If you’re not a fan of broccoli, use asparagus, spinach, zucchini, or peas instead.
• Dairy-Free Option – Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Gluten-Free Alternative – Use gluten-free tortellini or swap for another pasta shape that fits your dietary needs.
• Spice It Up – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of Cajun seasoning for a little heat.

With so many variations, you can easily customize this dish to match what you have on hand or your personal preferences!

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Ingredients for This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating a rich, flavorful, and satisfying dish. Here’s why they’re essential:

• Cheese Tortellini – The heart of the dish! These little pasta pockets add a delightful, cheesy bite that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Chicken Breast – Provides a lean protein that’s juicy, tender, and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce. You can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
• Broccoli – Adds a fresh, slightly crisp texture and balances the richness of the creamy sauce. Plus, it boosts the dish with extra nutrients.
• Butter – Used for searing the chicken and adding a rich, buttery flavor to the sauce.
• Garlic – The star of the sauce! Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with deep, aromatic flavor.
• Heavy Cream – Creates the luscious, velvety texture of the sauce that clings to every bite of pasta and chicken.
• Parmesan Cheese – Aged Parmesan adds a bold, nutty, and salty flavor to the sauce, making it irresistibly cheesy.
• Chicken Broth – Helps thin out the sauce slightly while adding extra savory depth.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that enhances the overall flavor.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors in the dish.
• Olive Oil – Used to sear the chicken, giving it a golden, flavorful crust.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle spicy kick.

Each ingredient contributes to the harmony of flavors and textures, making this dish an absolute crowd-pleaser!

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Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter, then place the chicken breasts (seasoned with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning) into the pan. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

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Step 2: Cook the Tortellini and Broccoli

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water to blanch them. Drain everything together and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Next, add the heavy cream, stirring well. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If needed, season with more salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

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Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the sliced chicken to the skillet along with the drained tortellini and broccoli. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the sauce coats all the ingredients evenly. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, comforting dish with your favorite side!

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How Long to Cook the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli

This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the cooking times:

• Chicken – 5-6 minutes per side (total of about 12 minutes).
• Tortellini – 3-5 minutes, depending on whether it’s fresh, frozen, or dried.
• Broccoli – 2 minutes (blanched with the tortellini).
• Sauce – 5-7 minutes to thicken properly.
• Final Simmer – 2-3 minutes to let all the flavors meld.

By keeping an eye on these times, you’ll ensure that everything cooks perfectly without overcooking any component.

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Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli

• Don’t overcook the tortellini – Since it will continue to absorb the sauce, cook it just until al dente.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan – Pre-packaged cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly and may make the sauce grainy.
• Let the chicken rest before slicing – This keeps it juicy and prevents dryness.
• Adjust the sauce consistency – If it gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to loosen it up.
• Taste and season as you go – Parmesan is salty, so adjust the salt level carefully.
• For extra richness – Stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or a bit more butter for an ultra-creamy texture.
• Make it spicy – Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of Cajun seasoning for a kick.

Follow these tips, and your dish will turn out creamy, flavorful, and absolutely delicious every time!

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this dish is simple, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to avoid:

• Overcooking the tortellini – Since it will continue cooking in the sauce, boiling it too long can make it mushy.
• Burning the garlic – Garlic cooks quickly; sauté it for just 30 seconds until fragrant, or it will turn bitter.
• Using pre-shredded Parmesan – It won’t melt as smoothly, making the sauce grainy. Always go for freshly grated!
• Cooking the sauce on high heat – Keep the heat medium to low to prevent curdling and ensure a silky texture.
• Skipping the chicken resting time – Cutting into the chicken too soon lets all the juices escape, making it dry.
• Not blanching the broccoli – Adding raw broccoli straight to the dish can make it too crunchy. A quick 2-minute blanch softens it just right.
• Forgetting to season properly – Taste as you go! Parmesan is salty, so adjust your seasoning accordingly.
• Letting the sauce get too thick – If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to loosen it.

By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll get perfectly creamy, flavorful tortellini every time!

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What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli

This dish is rich and creamy, so pairing it with something fresh or light will balance it beautifully. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread

A crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect way to soak up that creamy Parmesan sauce.

2. Side Salad

A simple arugula or Caesar salad with a light vinaigrette will cut through the richness.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini for an extra serving of greens.

4. Parmesan Crisps

If you love an extra cheesy crunch, Parmesan crisps make a fun and flavorful side.

5. White Wine

A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

6. Bruschetta

Fresh tomato bruschetta adds a bright, tangy contrast to this hearty pasta dish.

7. Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy, buttery mushrooms complement the garlic and Parmesan flavors beautifully.

8. Lemon Wedges

A squeeze of fresh lemon over the pasta can brighten up the entire dish.

With these side options, you can create a complete and balanced meal that’s sure to impress!

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so good!), you can store them properly to enjoy later.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, so when reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to bring back the creamy texture.
• Freezer: This dish isn’t the best for freezing because the dairy-based sauce can separate and become grainy. However, if needed, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little broth or cream to loosen the sauce. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on four servings):

• Calories: ~680 kcal
• Protein: ~45g
• Carbohydrates: ~50g
• Fat: ~35g
• Saturated Fat: ~18g
• Cholesterol: ~140mg
• Sodium: ~800mg
• Fiber: ~4g
• Sugar: ~5g

Note: Exact values may vary based on the type of tortellini and Parmesan cheese used. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reduce the cheese slightly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. When ready to serve, cook the tortellini and broccoli, then reheat everything together, adding a little broth or cream to refresh the sauce.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! If you don’t have tortellini, you can use ravioli, fettuccine, penne, or any pasta that holds sauce well.

3. How can I make this dish lighter?

For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, reduce the amount of Parmesan, and swap the butter for a little extra olive oil.

4. What if my sauce gets too thick?

Simply add a splash of chicken broth, pasta water, or milk while stirring to thin it out to your desired consistency.

5. Can I make this without chicken?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, sausage, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

6. How do I make this spicier?

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes, a little Cajun seasoning, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

7. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little liquid (broth or cream) to keep the sauce smooth. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring frequently.

8. Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes! Frozen tortellini works perfectly, but you may need to cook it a minute or two longer than fresh tortellini.

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Conclusion

If you love creamy, cheesy pasta dishes, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is a must-try! It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal. Save this recipe on Pinterest, share it with your friends and family, and let me know how you liked it! Enjoy!

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