This dish brings together rich, creamy garlic sauce with tender chicken and cheesy tortellini, all mixed with fresh broccoli. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Every bite is a party of flavors! I love it when the broccoli adds a nice crunch. Plus, it’s so quick to whip up—you’ll have dinner ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you want a quicker option, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly too!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds crunch and nutrients. Frozen broccoli is a convenient alternative but make sure to thaw it and drain excess water before adding it to the dish.
Tortellini: I love using cheese tortellini for its creamy texture. You can substitute it with other pasta types like ravioli or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half or whole milk. It won’t be as rich, but still delicious!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts nicely into the sauce. If you’re out of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano for a saltier flavor or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Get a Creamy Sauce Without It Separating?
The trick to a smooth, creamy sauce is to add the cheese slowly and keep the heat low. Here’s how to make it silky:
- Start by cooking the garlic in butter to release its flavors before adding liquids.
- Always stir the cream and broth together before bringing them to a simmer.
- Once simmering, gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt slowly.
- This prevents the sauce from becoming grainy and ensures it’s smooth and luscious.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 package (about 9 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes around 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken, followed by another 20 minutes putting everything together and cooking it, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces, season them with salt and pepper, and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Garlic and Broccoli:
In the same skillet, add the butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Then, add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, just until they are tender but still a bit crisp.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce starts to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
While the sauce is thickening, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Once they’re ready, drain them and set aside.
5. Combine Everything Together:
Add the cooked tortellini and the chicken back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together so that the tortellini and chicken are well-coated in the sauce. Heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley and sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese on top, if you like!
Enjoy your delightful Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli warm!
FAQ for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini?
Absolutely! Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package. Frozen tortellini usually takes a bit longer to cook, so adjust the time accordingly. You can add them directly to the boiling water while the sauce is simmering!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and substituting it with sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers for added texture and flavor. You could also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain the rich taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Just note that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy, but it will still be delicious!
