If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug, then Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Tender Chicken & Broccoli is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish combines silky cheese-filled tortellini with succulent chicken and vibrant broccoli, all coated in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy weeknight or serving it for a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe promises the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and fresh in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Speedy Dinner Solution: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you crave something homemade without the wait.
Balanced Flavor Profile: The rich, garlicky parmesan sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken and fresh broccoli, creating a harmonious dish.
All-in-One Meal: Combines protein, veggies, and carbs in a single pan for effortless cleanup and convenience.
Highly Customizable: Easy to tweak with different vegetables, proteins, or dairy choices to suit any taste or dietary preference.
Comfort Food That’s Not Heavy: Creamy yet light enough to enjoy any time without feeling weighed down.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this dish pop with flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role whether it’s tender chicken for protein, creamy cheese tortellini for indulgence, or crisp broccoli for a burst of color and nutrition.

Cheese Tortellini: Choose fresh or frozen tortellini filled with cheese for that soft and flavorful pasta base.
Tender Chicken Breast: Cooked and sliced thin to blend smoothly with the sauce and pasta.
Fresh Broccoli Florets: Adds a lovely crunch and essential green nutrients to balance the creaminess.
Garlic Cloves: Minced for a fragrant, bold foundation to the parmesan sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for the richest, most savory flavor in your sauce.
Heavy Cream or Half and Half: Adds a velvety texture without overpowering the other ingredients.
Butter and Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding depth to the sauce.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to jazz up the flavor.
Fresh Herbs like Parsley or Basil (optional): A sprinkle on top brightens the dish and adds a fresh contrast.

Variations for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Tender Chicken & Broccoli

Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to your preferences or dietary needs. The base is so adaptable, making it easy to swap ingredients without losing that creamy, garlicky goodness.

Vegetarian Version: Omit chicken and add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for an earthy twist.
Low-Carb Alternative: Replace tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi.
Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to add heat.
Dairy-Free Swap: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan and heavy cream.
Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp, sausage, or even crispy tofu.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Tender Chicken and Broccoli Bliss

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Tender Chicken & Broccoli

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by boiling your cheese tortellini according to the package instructions until al dente—usually 3 to 5 minutes—then drain and set aside. This ensures your pasta has just the right bite when combined with the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the tortellini cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken breast pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the pan and keep warm.

Step 3: Steam the Broccoli

In the same skillet, briefly steam the broccoli florets for 3 to 4 minutes to retain their bright color and crunch. Toss them out with the chicken or keep them in the skillet for the next step.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Add butter to the skillet, then sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Return chicken and broccoli to the skillet, then add the cooked tortellini. Gently toss everything in the sauce to evenly coat. Let it warm through for another minute or two, then garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Tender Chicken & Broccoli

Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Keep it al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy in the sauce.
Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that impact melting and texture.
Sear Chicken Well: Achieve perfect flavor by browning the chicken instead of just boiling or steaming it.
Reserve Pasta Water: Add a splash to the sauce if it gets too thick, helping it stay silky.
Garlic Intensity: Adjust the amount to suit your taste—you can roast the garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Tender Chicken & Broccoli

Garnishes

Top your dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. A light sprinkle of extra parmesan or a dash of cracked black pepper elevates the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy main with a crisp side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or garlic breadsticks to mop up every last bit of sauce. Roasted cherry tomatoes also make a great complement for some juicy burst.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in shallow bowls with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few red pepper flakes scattered on top. For special occasions, garnish with edible flowers or microgreens to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover tortellini in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken, so reheating gently is key to maintaining creaminess.

Freezing

This dish freezes well when cooled completely; store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers slowly in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid microwaving on high to prevent curdling the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well if fresh isn’t available—just steam it gently to avoid becoming too mushy before adding to the dish.

What kind of tortellini is best for this recipe?

Cheese-filled tortellini are ideal as they create that creamy, melty texture that perfectly matches the garlic parmesan sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and can be reheated easily, making it a great option for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, by substituting dairy cream with coconut milk and parmesan with nutritional yeast, you can enjoy a delicious dairy-free version.

How spicy is this dish?

The basic recipe is mild, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to introduce heat according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

With its creamy, garlicky sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Tender Chicken & Broccoli is a fantastic dish to keep in your weekly rotation. It’s simple to make yet irresistibly delicious, perfect for sharing with family or impressing friends. Give it a try, and you might just find your new go-to comfort food that makes dinner effortless and memorable!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Tender Chicken & Broccoli

Author: Anna
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Contains Dairy, Gluten

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Tender Chicken & Broccoli is a quick and comforting one-pan meal that combines cheese-filled tortellini, succulent chicken breast, and fresh broccoli in a rich, garlicky parmesan cream sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish balances savory, creamy, and fresh flavors, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners with family and friends.

Instructions

Cook the Tortellini: Boil the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions, usually 3 to 5 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside to maintain the perfect texture for the sauce.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the thinly sliced chicken breast with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and keep warm.
Steam the Broccoli: Using the same skillet, briefly steam the broccoli florets for 3 to 4 minutes to keep their bright color and crispness. You may toss the broccoli with the chicken or keep it in the pan for the next step.
Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Add butter to the skillet and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
Combine All Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and broccoli to the skillet. Add the cooked tortellini and gently toss everything in the sauce to evenly coat. Let warm through for 1 to 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the tortellini; keep it al dente to avoid mushiness.
Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best melting and texture, avoiding pre-grated options with anti-caking agents.
Searing chicken properly enhances flavor better than boiling or steaming.
Reserve some pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
Adjust garlic quantity to your taste; roasting garlic can provide a milder, sweeter flavor.