There’s something undeniably comforting about a creamy pasta dish, and this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Juicy Chicken and Broccoli is the ultimate combination of rich flavor, tender textures, and easy-to-make satisfaction. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, a crowd-pleasing potluck option, or simply an indulgent treat after a long day, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality experience right from your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This meal checks all the boxes—it’s hearty, flavorful, and full of balanced ingredients. The cheese-filled tortellini provides the perfect bite-sized pasta shape to absorb the creamy sauce. Juicy, well-seasoned chicken adds protein and depth, while broccoli brings color, freshness, and a healthy touch to round out the dish. The sauce, made from garlic, cream, and parmesan, ties it all together with a velvety richness that’s both indulgent and comforting.
Ingredients Overview
To make this dish, you’ll need the following key ingredients:
- Cheese tortellini: Fresh or refrigerated works best for quick cooking and optimal texture
- Chicken breast or thighs: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Broccoli florets: Fresh is ideal, but frozen can work if thawed
- Garlic: Freshly minced for bold flavor
- Parmesan cheese: Grated, for a deep, nutty finish
- Heavy cream: For a luscious, thick sauce
- Butter and olive oil: For sautéing and enhancing flavor
- Salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes: For seasoning
- Chicken broth: To add depth and keep the sauce from getting too heavy
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder if desired. Heat a large skillet with a mix of olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden on the outside and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Tortellini
In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. For added convenience, you can cook the tortellini while preparing the other components to save time.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Broccoli
In the same skillet used for the chicken, add a bit more butter if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant—about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add the broccoli florets and stir to coat. Pour in a splash of chicken broth and cover the skillet with a lid to steam the broccoli for 3–5 minutes, until tender but still bright green.
4. Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the heavy cream to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly stir in the grated parmesan cheese, whisking constantly to create a smooth, thick sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat, if desired.
5. Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken and tortellini to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat in the sauce and ensure even distribution of ingredients. Allow the dish to heat through for 2–3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra parmesan, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or warm, crusty bread for dipping into the extra sauce.
Tips and Variations
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be thinner.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for an earthy, tangy twist.
- Swap the broccoli for spinach, asparagus, or peas depending on seasonal availability or personal preference.
- Use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked grilled chicken for an even quicker meal.
- If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, roast garlic ahead of time and blend it into the sauce for a deeper, sweeter taste.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This dish can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. While it’s best fresh, it can also be frozen, though the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly after thawing.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Juicy Chicken and Broccoli is more than just a weeknight dinner—it’s a satisfying and flavorful dish that feels like comfort food with a gourmet twist. It brings together simple ingredients in a way that tastes luxurious yet approachable, making it a favorite for both new cooks and seasoned home chefs. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe is sure to become a regular part of your rotation
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