This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken tortellini with broccoli is a dreamy dish! The cheesy sauce wraps around tender tortellini and fresh broccoli, making it a nice comfort food choice.
You might find it hard to resist sneaking bites right from the pan! I love how quick it is to make, perfect for busy weeknights when you just want something warm and yummy.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. You can swap it for rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time or use shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. A lower-fat option is half-and-half, but it might be slightly less creamy. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are perfect! If you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli is a good alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain it to remove excess water.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice flavor. You can use Pecorino Romano instead or a vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Creamy Sauce?
Creating a creamy sauce is all about combining the right ingredients at the right time. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by cooking the chicken fully and getting a nice golden color. Remove it before adding garlic to prevent burning.
- When sautéing garlic, keep a close eye on it—it cooks super fast! Aim for fragrant, not browned.
- Mix in the broth and cream together, simmer gently to meld flavors before adding tortellini.
- Stir in the Parmesan gradually, letting it melt completely into the sauce for that dreamy texture.
- Taste and season as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 package (9 oz/255g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a warm, creamy dish ready to enjoy with your family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Using the same skillet (with the delicious chicken bits still in it), add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown!
3. Add the Broccoli:
Next, toss in the broccoli florets. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes, just until they start to soften and turn a bright green.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. It’s time to let those flavors start mingling!
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini directly into the skillet. Stir occasionally and cook according to the package instructions, which is usually around 3-5 minutes, until the tortellini are tender.
6. Final Touches:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Mix until the sauce is nice and creamy and the cheese is melted beautifully.
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, giving everything a good stir to combine. Heat through until everything is well mixed.
8. Taste and Season:
Take a moment to taste the dish. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if you need to. You want it just right!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like, and serve immediately while it’s hot! Enjoy your creamy garlic Parmesan chicken tortellini with broccoli!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to cook the frozen tortellini according to the package instructions, adding them to the skillet earlier to ensure they have enough time to soften in the creamy sauce.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute, but keep in mind it may slightly change the flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose.
