This creamy garlic parmesan chicken tortellini with broccoli is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and vibrant green broccoli—all in a rich sauce!
If you love cheese and garlic, this dish is for you! I enjoy throwing in extra veggies or even some sun-dried tomatoes for a pop of flavor. It’s quick to make too, which is a win in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this dish because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a shortcut, shredded rotisserie chicken works great too!
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini gives a wonderful richness. You can use spinach tortellini for extra flavor or whole wheat for a healthier option. If you’re gluten-free, there are excellent gluten-free varieties available.
Heavy Cream: This provides a creamy texture, but you can substitute half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Just be careful with yogurt so it doesn’t curdle over heat!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the sauce. If you’re in a pinch, pre-grated cheese will work too; just know it won’t melt as smoothly. Nutritional yeast can be an excellent vegan alternative!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli adds color and nutrients. You can substitute with frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available; just cook it a little less, as it’ll be softer.
How Do You Make the Creamy Sauce Without Curdling?
Making a creamy sauce can be tricky, especially with dairy. The key is managing the temperature and adding ingredients in the right order. Here’s how to keep your sauce silky smooth:
- Always heat your skillet on medium heat to avoid overheating the cream.
- When adding the cream and broth, do it gradually while stirring to combine. This helps to control the temperature.
- Add the grated cheese slowly, allowing it to melt into the sauce without clumping. If you stir continuously, it will blend beautifully!
- Remember to keep your sauce at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil, which can cause curdling.
Following these steps helps achieve a creamy sauce that everyone will love!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli
Ingredients you’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
For the Tortellini and Sauce:
- 1 (9 oz/250g) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but still want something delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, stirring them until they become fragrant and translucent. This should take around 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Add the Broccoli:
Now it’s time to add the fresh broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir and cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still bright green. This gives a lovely crunch to your dish!
4. Cook the Tortellini:
While the broccoli cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. Once they’re al dente, drain them and set aside.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic, onion, and broccoli. Stir to mix everything well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is silky smooth. Then, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using. Give it a taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken and drained tortellini to the skillet. Gently stir everything together, ensuring the tortellini and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is heated, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your creamy garlic parmesan chicken tortellini with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite veggies or proteins. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just add it to the skillet during the step where you sauté the garlic and onion. Cook it for a few minutes until heated through, as frozen broccoli may need less time to become tender compared to fresh.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk. For a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt; just be sure to add it at a lower heat to prevent curdling.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back the creamy texture if needed.
