There’s something incredibly satisfying about gathering simple ingredients and turning them into a soul-warming dinner in under 30 minutes. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is precisely that kind of dish—rich, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. From the moment you start slicing fresh chicken breasts to the final toss of cheese tortellini and vibrant broccoli florets in that luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce, you can’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. This one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to impress without sacrificing time or sanity. With just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to pull together, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
As you simmer the heavy cream with grated Parmesan and stir in Italian seasoning, you’ll notice how each ingredient plays its part in creating the ultimate comfort-food experience. The tender chicken strips soak up the garlicky cream, while the tortellini—pillowy little cheese pockets—trap every drop of flavor. Toss in bright green broccoli florets for a pop of color and nutrition, and you’ve struck gold. At around 620 calories per serving, this recipe checks the comfort-food box while still feeling balanced. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a satisfying solo meal, this dish brings warmth, flavor, and a breeze of elegance to your dining table.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN TORTELLINI WITH CHICKEN & BROCCOLI
Before diving into the kitchen whirlwind, let’s chat about the stars of this show. Each ingredient has a role: some bring texture, others lend richness, and a few unexpected heroes tie everything together for that crave-worthy creaminess. Here’s what you’ll need to make the magic happen:
- Cheese tortellini
Pillowy pasta pockets stuffed with creamy cheese, these tender bites act as the perfect vehicle for soaking up that luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Lean and versatile, sliced into thin strips so they cook quickly and evenly, adding hearty protein to balance out the dish.
- Broccoli florets
Bright green bite-size pieces that add a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich sauce, plus a boost of vitamins and color.
- Olive oil
Divided between cooking the chicken and sautéing the garlic, it adds a fruity, silky mouthfeel and prevents sticking.
- Garlic cloves
Minced and quickly sautéed, they release a fragrant punch that forms the aromatic backbone of the sauce.
- Heavy cream
Provides the rich, velvety base that transforms simple broth into a decadent sauce that clings to every tortellini and chicken strip.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Melts into the cream with a nutty, salty depth that takes this sauce from good to unforgettable.
- Salt
Enhances natural flavors and balances the richness of cream and cheese.
- Black pepper
Adds a gentle heat and complexity, cutting through the creaminess for a well-rounded bite.
- Italian seasoning
A fragrant blend of herbs that brings warmth and a rustic, Mediterranean flair to the sauce.
- Chicken broth
Thins out the cream just enough to ensure the sauce isn’t too heavy, while enriching its flavor profile.
- Fresh parsley
Chopped and sprinkled on top as a bright, herbal garnish, it adds a pop of color and lightness to each plate.
HOW TO MAKE CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN TORTELLINI WITH CHICKEN & BROCCOLI
Let’s walk through the step-by-step process of turning these wholesome ingredients into a comforting, one-pan meal. From perfectly al dente tortellini to a sauce that’s silky and packed with flavor, you’ll be amazed at how straightforward—and fun—this recipe is.
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Drop in the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package directions. In the final three minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets so they steam and become tender. Once everything is al dente, drain thoroughly and set aside in the colander.
2. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips, sprinkling with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken until each piece is golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.
3. In the same skillet, pour in the remaining two tablespoons of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant—be careful not to let it brown, which can turn it bitter.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, then taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Let the sauce cook for 3–4 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
6. Return the cooked chicken, drained tortellini, and broccoli to the skillet. Use tongs or a large spoon to gently toss everything together, ensuring each piece is evenly coated in the sumptuous sauce.
7. Serve straight from the pan, garnishing with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color. Dive in immediately and savor the rich, savory flavors!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN TORTELLINI WITH CHICKEN & BROCCOLI
When it comes to presentation and pairings, there are simple ways to elevate this dish from weeknight comfort food to a memorable feast. Whether you’re serving family, friends, or treating yourself, these suggestions will complement the creamy garlic-Parmesan flavors and add layers of texture and freshness.
- Crisp green salad
A light salad of mixed greens, thinly sliced cucumber, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness and refreshes the palate between each creamy bite.
- Garlic bread
Warm, buttery slices of crusty baguette rubbed with garlic and lightly toasted provide the perfect crunchy vehicle for sopping up every drop of sauce.
- Shaved Parmesan topping
Add extra flair by finishing each plate with paper-thin shavings of Parmesan and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for an elegant touch.
- Sparkling citrus beverage
Pair with a sparkling lemonade or a citrus-infused iced tea to brighten the meal and highlight the herbaceous notes of the parsley and Italian seasoning.
HOW TO STORE CREAMY GARLIC PARMESAN TORTELLINI WITH CHICKEN & BROCCOLI
Leftovers of this creamy pasta dish can be almost as delightful as the first serving—if stored properly. The key is to preserve the sauce’s velvety texture and keep the broccoli vibrant rather than mushy. Here are some foolproof methods to maintain its fresh-from-the-kitchen taste for days to come.
- Refrigerate in airtight containers
Transfer cooled tortellini and chicken into a sealed container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Make sure to press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sauce before sealing to minimize air exposure.
- Freeze in portion sizes
For longer storage, divide leftovers into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze flat to save space, and the dish will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Separate sauce and solids
If you anticipate reheating multiple times, store the sauce separately from the tortellini and chicken. Reheat each component gently—add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the sauce to restore its silky consistency.
- Reheat gently over low heat
Whether thawed or fresh from the fridge, warm leftovers in a nonstick skillet over low heat. Stir frequently and add a small amount of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much, ensuring a smooth, luscious texture.
CONCLUSION
Whether you’re seeking a cozy family dinner or a quick, indulgent solo meal, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli ticks all the boxes: ease, speed, and unbeatable flavor. In just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, you’ll transform simple pantry staples into a bowl of pure comfort. From the tender chicken strips to the al dente tortellini and crisp broccoli, each bite is coated in a dreamy sauce that feels luxurious without the fuss. You can easily print this article and save it for your next busy night, or tuck it into your digital recipe collection. Below, you’ll find a helpful FAQ to answer any lingering questions and troubleshoot common cooking hiccups.
I absolutely love hearing how this recipe works for you, so please drop a comment if you try it out—whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie. Let me know your favorite tweaks: maybe a handful of spinach or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat? If you have any questions or need guidance on substitutions, don’t hesitate to ask. Your feedback not only helps me refine future recipes, but it also builds this wonderful community of food lovers who celebrate good meals and good company. Happy cooking, and here’s to many more delicious dinners!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli
Description
Savor the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan enveloping tender tortellini, juicy chicken, and vibrant broccoli in this easy, one-pan dish ready in 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions. In the final 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the chicken strips, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
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Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, then mix in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
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Add the Italian seasoning, and adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Return the cooked chicken, tortellini, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything to coat well with the creamy sauce.
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Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy the rich and savory flavors!
Note
- Feel free to substitute spinach or any other preferred vegetable instead of broccoli for variation.
- Grate your own Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more chicken broth or cream to reach the desired consistency.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
