Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli – A One-Pan Comfort Dish
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is the ultimate weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and fresh broccoli in a rich, garlicky parmesan sauce. This dish is a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze while delivering restaurant-quality flavors. Perfect for busy families, this meal is comforting, satisfying, and packed with wholesome ingredients.
The creamy parmesan sauce complements the bite-sized tortellini and enhances the juicy chicken pieces, while fresh broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish promises indulgent, cheesy goodness in every bite. Best of all, it’s easy to make and can be on the table in just over 30 minutes.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A rich and creamy parmesan sauce with hints of garlic and butter, balanced by juicy chicken and fresh broccoli.
- Texture: Soft, pillowy tortellini with a smooth sauce, crunchy-tender broccoli, and pan-seared chicken.
- Aroma: The warm, inviting scent of garlic sizzling in butter, combined with the nutty fragrance of Parmesan cheese.
- Visual Appeal: A beautifully creamy dish with vibrant green broccoli and golden-brown chicken pieces.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly, with simple yet effective cooking techniques.
- Special Equipment: A large skillet or sauté pan and a wooden spoon for stirring.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is not only delicious but also an incredibly convenient, one-pan dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender cheese-filled tortellini and a velvety garlic cream sauce makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The dish is well-balanced, delivering indulgent flavors while incorporating healthy greens.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a meal that’s both hearty and nutritious. The creamy sauce has just the right amount of richness without being overwhelming, while the broccoli adds freshness and balance. Every component works together to create a dish that’s comforting yet light enough to enjoy year-round.
Not only is this dish simple to prepare, but it’s also versatile. You can customize it with different proteins like shrimp or sausage, or even swap out the tortellini for another pasta shape. The ingredients are easily accessible, and the method is incredibly straightforward, making this a great option for beginner cooks.
Another reason to love this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can prep the ingredients in advance, store them separately, and quickly bring the dish together when you’re ready to serve. It’s also freezer-friendly, making leftovers an ideal quick meal for a busy day.
Finally, this dish is budget-friendly! By using simple pantry staples like parmesan, garlic, and butter, this meal delivers gourmet flavors without breaking the bank. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a weeknight date night dinner, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is sure to impress.
The Recipe
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups cheese tortellini
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Directions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and 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 season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes.
- Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add broccoli florets to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Cover the skillet and let the broccoli steam in the sauce for 3-4 minutes.
- Fold in the cooked tortellini and gently toss until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and garnish with extra Parmesan and optional red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.
Recipe Notes
- For added protein, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking from scratch.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Substitute spinach for broccoli if desired.
- Add a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving for a zesty touch.
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is a dish you’ll make again and again. Try it tonight, and share your thoughts in the comments below! Happy cooking!
