Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, combining tender tortellini, juicy chicken, and crisp-tender broccoli all enveloped in a luscious, creamy garlic sauce. It’s a family favorite that I whip up on busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests without breaking a sweat. The best part? It’s super easy to make! I remember the first time I made it; the kids gobbled it up in no time, and I couldn’t help but smile watching them enjoy every bite. Trust me, once you try this creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli, it’ll become a staple in your home too!
Ingredients List
- 12 oz tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by cooking the tortellini according to the package instructions. Typically, this takes about 3-5 minutes, but check the directions to be sure! Once they’re tender, drain them and set aside. This will be the base of our creamy dish!
- Next, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot (you’ll see it shimmer), toss in the diced chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink inside. This step is crucial for flavor, so don’t rush it!
- Now, it’s garlic time! Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for just 1 minute. You want to smell that heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen, but be careful not to burn it—garlic can go from perfect to charred in a flash!
- Time to add our vibrant green friend! Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re bright and tender but still crisp. You can use fresh or frozen broccoli here—either works great!
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens! Stir occasionally and let it bubble away for about 2-3 minutes.
- Now, sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into the creamy sauce. Just imagine how rich and cheesy it’ll become! If it looks a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
- Finally, add the cooked tortellini to the skillet. Toss everything together until the tortellini is well coated in that luscious sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste—this is your moment to adjust flavors!
- Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pan wonder—easy cleanup and minimal fuss!
- The creamy garlic sauce is rich, flavorful, and downright addictive.
- Perfect for busy weeknights; it comes together in about 30 minutes!
- Kids and adults alike will gobble it up, making it a family favorite.
- You can customize it easily—swap in your favorite veggies or proteins!
- It’s a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day—score!
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the tortellini: Follow the package instructions carefully. Overcooked tortellini can turn mushy, and we want them to hold their shape and texture in the dish!
- Use freshly grated parmesan: Trust me, the flavor is so much better than the pre-grated stuff! Fresh cheese melts beautifully and adds a wonderful creaminess.
- Adjust the garlic to your liking: If you’re a garlic lover like I am, feel free to add an extra clove or two! Just be cautious if you’re cooking for someone who might prefer a milder flavor.
- Experiment with seasonings: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, or try adding Italian herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor depth.
- Don’t skip the simmering: Letting the sauce simmer for a few minutes ensures all the flavors meld together perfectly. This is where the magic happens!
- Save some pasta water: If you find your sauce too thick, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water can help achieve that perfect creamy consistency.
- Garnish for flair: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or an extra dash of parmesan on top before serving not only looks great but adds a fresh taste that brightens the dish!
Variations
- Add Different Proteins: Switch things up by using shrimp, sausage, or even leftover rotisserie chicken instead of diced chicken breast. Each will bring its unique flavor to the dish!
- Go Veggie-Heavy: If you want to make this dish even heartier, toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes. They’ll add color and a delightful taste!
- Make it Spicy: For a kick, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the garlic. It’ll elevate the dish and give it a fun twist!
- Change the Cheese: While parmesan is a classic, feel free to experiment! A mix of mozzarella and feta can create a different creamy experience, or try adding some goat cheese for a tangy flavor.
- Use Different Sauces: Swap the creamy garlic sauce for a pesto sauce if you’re feeling adventurous! It’ll bring a fresh and herbaceous flavor to your tortellini.
- Try a Different Pasta: If you can’t find tortellini, any pasta shape like penne or farfalle works perfectly. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley at the end of cooking for a burst of freshness. It’s a simple way to enhance the flavors even more!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve whipped up a delicious batch of creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli, and now you’ve got some leftovers? No worries—this dish stores wonderfully for future enjoyment! Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty.
First, let the dish cool to room temperature. Then, transfer the creamy tortellini into an airtight container. I like to use glass containers because they’re durable and don’t absorb odors. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tightly to prevent any moisture from getting in!
If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze it! Portion the tortellini into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to dig in, just let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now, for reheating, I recommend warming it up on the stovetop for the best results. Just add a splash of milk or cream to the pan to help bring back that creamy texture, and heat it over medium-low until it’s warmed through. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking. If you’re in a rush, you can use the microwave too—just be sure to cover the dish to keep it moist and heat it in short bursts, stirring in between.
And there you have it! Enjoy those creamy leftovers just as much as the first time around!
Nutritional Information Section
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Understanding the nutritional information for creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli can help you enjoy this dish even more, knowing what’s in each serving. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use or any modifications you make. But hey, it’s all about balance, right? Enjoy this creamy goodness without any guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works perfectly in this creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli. Just cook them according to the package instructions, and you’re good to go!
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it up. Just keep in mind that the sauce might not be as rich and creamy, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Don’t forget to add a splash of cream or milk while reheating to restore the creaminess!
What other vegetables can I add?
You can totally customize this dish! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so everything is perfectly tender!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
For more information on the nutritional benefits of broccoli, you can check out this article.
To learn more about the health benefits of garlic, visit this source.
For tips on cooking with parmesan cheese, see this guide.
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Magic
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli is a delicious and easy dish that combines tender tortellini, juicy chicken, and fresh broccoli in a creamy garlic sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 oz tortellini
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add broccoli florets and cook until tender.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Notes
- Feel free to use frozen broccoli.
- Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli
