This creamy garlic parmesan chicken tortellini with broccoli is a super yummy meal! It combines tender tortellini, juicy chicken, and fresh broccoli in a rich cheesy sauce. Yum!
It’s so easy to make that even my kids love helping me! We often enjoy it with a side salad to balance things out. Trust me, you’ll want seconds of this deliciousness! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I like to use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you’re out, you can use vegetable or canola oil as a substitute.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great. You can swap them with thighs if you prefer dark meat or even use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you don’t have it handy, garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Just use about 1/4 teaspoon to replace each clove.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds color and nutrition. If you don’t have it, frozen broccoli can be a quick alternative; just make sure it’s thawed before cooking.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is my first choice, but you could use any type of pasta. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free tortellini options in stores.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated. If you’re looking for a substitute, Pecorino Romano works well too.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Tortellini?
Cooking tortellini correctly is key to this dish! Follow these steps to get it just right:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This helps enhance the pasta’s flavor.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. Fresh tortellini usually takes about 3-5 minutes, while frozen may take a bit longer.
- When it floats to the top, it’s usually done, but taste a piece to check!
- Drain the tortellini gently to avoid breaking them, then add them directly into the skillet to keep them warm.
Getting the timing right means your tortellini will be perfectly tender, and your dish will be even more delicious!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini With Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes chopping and prepping your ingredients, while cooking everything will take about 20 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal and delicious enough for a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet and sauté until it’s golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. When it’s done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until you can smell that delicious aroma. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Add the Broccoli:
Next, toss in the broccoli florets and stir them around. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until they become tender-crisp. They should still be bright green!
4. Prepare the Tortellini:
While the broccoli is cooking, boil the tortellini according to the package instructions. Once they’re ready, drain them and set aside.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the skillet heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir it all together and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken up a bit.
6. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Keep stirring until the cheese has melted and everything is combined nicely.
7. Bring It All Together:
Add the cooked chicken and tortellini back into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat it in that creamy sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
8. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. You can always add a little more cheese too if you’re feeling cheesy!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this creamy garlic parmesan chicken tortellini with broccoli with your family or friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use shrimp, sliced sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—shrimp cook quickly while tofu may need a little more time to crisp up.
Can I Use Whole Wheat Tortellini?
Yes, whole wheat tortellini is a great option for added nutrition! Just keep in mind that they may take a bit longer to cook, so check the package instructions for the exact timing.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy garlic parmesan chicken tortellini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies such as bell peppers, spinach, or peas. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is tender yet retains some crunch.