This creamy garlic parmesan chicken tortellini with broccoli is a warm hug on a plate! Cheesy tortellini, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli all come together in a dreamy sauce.
Honestly, who can resist creamy goodness? I love how this dish is quick to prepare, letting me spend more time eating than cooking. Perfect for any weekday dinner! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are quick to cook and tender. You can substitute with rotisserie chicken for ease, or use turkey if it’s your preference.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the dish a nice crunch! You can easily swap it with other veggies like spinach, peas, or even frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini adds a lovely creaminess, but you can try stuffed pasta like ravioli or even use a gluten-free option if needed. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Heavy Cream: If you’re watching calories, you can use half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk or a cashew cream works well.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is a must for flavor, but feel free to use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Just note that nutritional yeast won’t have the same rich flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Cooked Chicken and Creamy Sauce?
Cooking the chicken and getting a creamy sauce can be tricky. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Cook chicken pieces in a hot skillet to get a nice sear, which adds flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- After removing the chicken, use the leftover bits in the pan since they’ll add flavor to the sauce.
- When adding the heavy cream and Parmesan, stir continuously to prevent burning, and keep the heat low to avoid curdling.
These tips will help you achieve delicious chicken and a smooth, creamy sauce every time!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 (9 oz/250g) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take you about 20 minutes of prep and cooking time. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight meal that the whole family can enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to season. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s golden brown and no longer pink in the middle. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture is fragrant and the onion has turned translucent. This will help develop the flavors for our sauce!
3. Add the Broccoli:
Now, it’s time to add the broccoli florets! Toss them into the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Keep stirring so they cook evenly.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This creamy base is what makes the dish so delicious! Stir everything together and let it cook for a minute or two.
5. Combine the Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the Italian seasoning to the skillet. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. It should look creamy and absolutely irresistible!
6. Cook the Tortellini:
While the sauce is simmering, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cheese tortellini according to the package’s instructions until al dente. Drain the tortellini and set it aside.
7. Mix It All Together:
Return the cooked chicken and tortellini to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. This step ensures that every bite is loaded with flavor!
8. Final Touches:
Check the seasoning and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. Don’t be shy here—this enhances the flavor of your dish!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your creamy garlic parmesan chicken tortellini with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy this warm, comforting meal with your loved ones!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when boiling the frozen tortellini. Follow the package instructions and make sure they’re heated through before adding them to the 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 version, try coconut milk or cashew cream! Just keep in mind that using lower-fat options might result in a less creamy sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Spinach, peas, or bell peppers can be great additions. Just sauté them with the garlic and onion to ensure they cook through as part of the dish.