If you’re ready for a comforting plate that truly delivers on both taste and simplicity, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is the answer. This dish combines pillowy cheese tortellini, juicy bites of chicken, and fresh broccoli, all tossed in a rich, garlicky parmesan sauce that’s impossible to resist. It’s one of those recipes that feels a little fancy—yet comes together in just half an hour. Whether you need a family-friendly weeknight dinner or you’re craving a cozy meal that brings everyone to the table, this one has you covered.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s beauty in the short, familiar ingredient list for this crowd-pleaser. Each element brings something special—richness, freshness, or that crave-worthy creamy finish. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli, plus a quick tip for each one:
- Cheese tortellini: Fresh or refrigerated is best for maximum flavor and that perfect pillowy texture.
- Cooked chicken breast: Dice or shred it; rotisserie chicken is a fantastic, speedy shortcut.
- Broccoli florets: Add color, crunch, and a pop of nutrition with every bite.
- Olive oil: Start your aromatics off right with a good drizzle.
- Fresh garlic: Four cloves lend a deeply savory, irresistible base for the sauce.
- All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the luscious parmesan sauce to just the right consistency.
- Whole milk: Adds creamy body without overwhelming richness.
- Heavy cream: For that decadent, ultra-silky finish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated for maximum flavor and creamy melt.
- Salt: Just enough to make every ingredient shine.
- Black pepper: Freshly ground gives the most robust background heat.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch brings a pleasant kick if you love a little heat.
- Fresh parsley: Sprinkle on top for a vibrant pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in your tortellini and let them cook according to the package directions, stirring occasionally so they don’t stick. In the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets. This timing keeps the broccoli bright green and perfectly tender-crisp. Drain everything together and set aside—you’re well on your way to Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli bliss.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While your pasta and broccoli are finishing up, set a large skillet over medium heat and swirl in the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and stir just until fragrant, about 1 minute. Take care not to let the garlic brown—this is where all that signature aroma starts to build!
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed garlic and stir for another minute to cook off any raw flavor. Now, gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream. The mixture should become smooth and start to thicken after a few minutes of gentle bubbling. Add the grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and (if you like a bit of warmth) some red pepper flakes. The sauce is ready when it’s creamy and cheesy, with the perfect consistency to coat every bite.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Now comes the best part—bringing it all together! Fold the cooked chicken, drained tortellini, and broccoli right into the skillet with the sauce. Gently stir until every piece is coated and everything is heated through. The aroma is wildly tempting at this point, so don’t be surprised if everyone drifts into the kitchen.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli with a generous shower of fresh parsley. Serve immediately while everything is luxurious and piping hot—get ready for smiles around the table!
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only gives your finished dish a lovely burst of color but also brightens up those creamy flavors. You can also add a little extra Parmesan on top for good measure—there’s no such thing as too much cheese here!
Side Dishes
This is a satisfying all-in-one meal, but if you want to add something more, think about serving it with a crisp green salad or some warm, crusty bread. Both are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple tomato salad also make lovely companions to Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating this dish in shallow pasta bowls to showcase the vibrant broccoli and glossy sauce. For a gather-round-the-table feel, serve straight from a cast iron skillet or wide serving dish. For a dinner party, add a fresh grind of black pepper and a generous snow of Parmesan tableside—everyone loves a finishing touch!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli are a treat! Let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce stays creamy, and the flavors have a chance to meld beautifully.
Freezing
While creamy sauces can sometimes separate when thawed, you can freeze this dish in a pinch. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, making sure to seal tightly. For best results, enjoy within a month. When you reheat, add a splash of milk to help the sauce regain its creaminess.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the tortellini in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a bit of milk or broth to revive that silky sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring halfway through. Just be careful not to overheat, which can dry out the chicken and thicken the sauce too much.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli. Just add a minute or two to the cooking time and be sure to check for doneness so your pasta stays tender.
What’s the best way to cook the chicken for this recipe?
You have options! Grilled, baked, or even rotisserie chicken is perfect. The quickest route is picking up a rotisserie chicken, but feel free to use leftover or freshly cooked chicken breast—just dice or shred it before adding to the dish.
Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly! Sliced mushrooms, spinach, or even bell peppers slide into this recipe seamlessly. Simply sauté or blanch them along with the broccoli, or toss them in during the sauce step to keep things colorful and flavorful.
Is there a lighter version of this dish?
Yes, you can swap in half-and-half for the heavy cream or use just whole milk if you want to cut back on richness. While it won’t be quite as decadent, you’ll still get a lovely, satisfying sauce for your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
It’s easy! Just omit the chicken or replace it with cooked mushrooms for a hearty, protein-rich substitute. You’ll have a creamy, veggie-forward spin on this timeless combo.
Final Thoughts
I wholeheartedly encourage you to gather the ingredients and give Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli a try. It’s a guaranteed dinner win—fast, comforting, and full of flavor that brings joy to every table. If you love simple recipes with big payoff, this one’s sure to find a place in your regular rotation!
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delightful meal with this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini that features tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, velvety sauce.
Ingredients
Cheese Tortellini:
- 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
Chicken & Broccoli:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (diced or shredded)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Boil salted water, cook tortellini per package instructions adding broccoli in the last 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make Sauce: Sauté garlic in olive oil, stir in flour, whisk in milk and cream until thickened. Stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Combine: Add chicken, tortellini, and broccoli to the skillet, coat in sauce, and heat through.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if desired.
- Add mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.
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