Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe

If there’s one dish that never fails to impress at my dinner table, it’s Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli. Imagine pillowy cheese tortellini and tender chunks of golden chicken, all enrobed in a velvety garlic parmesan sauce and tossed with bursts of vibrant broccoli. This recipe is a weeknight winner—simple to make, deeply satisfying, and rich with flavors your family will beg for again and again. It’s Italian comfort food made easy, turning everyday ingredients into something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Good food begins with good ingredients, and this dish is no exception! Every element here plays a role: the juicy chicken gives it heartiness, the fresh broccoli brings color and crunch, and that trio of garlic, cream, and parmesan turns the simplest pasta into a cozy, craveable feast.

• Olive oil: Adds the perfect foundation for searing chicken and infusing flavor into every bite.
• Boneless skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and plenty of protein in every forkful.
• Salt and pepper: These kitchen staples ensure every ingredient shines by enhancing and balancing the dish.
• Garlic (minced): Three cloves deliver the warm, aromatic layer that’s essential for the signature sauce.
• Broccoli florets: Develops a gentle crunch and provides a pop of color, nutrition, and freshness.
• Chicken broth: Deglazes the pan and brings in savory depth to the creamy sauce.
• Heavy cream: The backbone of a truly luxurious sauce—you’ll love how it coats the pasta and chicken.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Salty and nutty, this is the cheese that melts into a luscious, silky finish.
• Refrigerated cheese tortellini: This shortcut delivers pillowy, cheesy decadence with minimal effort.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Add a touch of heat and a lovely counterpoint to the creamy sauce.
• Fresh parsley (chopped): Brightens the finished dish and adds a cheerful garnish.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini and Broccoli

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your cheese tortellini and let them cook according to the package directions. About 2–3 minutes before the tortellini are done, toss in your broccoli florets. This clever move cooks the broccoli perfectly—bright green and still slightly crisp—without dirtying another pan. Drain and set aside while you move on to the next component.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta boils, heat up two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, flipping once, until the pieces are golden on the outside and cooked through. Once done, spoon the chicken out of the pan and keep it warm for later.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and, in the same skillet, add your minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant (about 30 seconds)—be careful not to let it brown. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up all the delicious browned bits left by the chicken; this packs the sauce with even more flavor. Next, stir in the heavy cream and let the mixture come up to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan and Finish the Sauce

Now for the grand finale: sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly as it melts right into the cream, thickening the sauce beautifully. Season with a pinch of red pepper flakes here if you like a gentle hint of heat. The result is a rich, silky sauce that clings perfectly to every tortellini and bite of chicken.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Add the cooked chicken, tortellini, and broccoli back into the skillet with your luscious garlic parmesan sauce. Toss gently, letting everything get coated evenly. Give the dish a couple minutes to simmer so all the flavors meld and the ingredients heat through—now your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is ready to serve!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

Garnishes

Top each bowl generously with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and brightness. A final shower of grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes give this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli an elegant finish that looks every bit as inviting as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This hearty pasta is lovely on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or some warm, crusty bread to mop up all that dreamy sauce. For a festive table, try roasted vegetables or even a citrusy fruit salad to add contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting, try serving this dish family-style from a large, shallow platter so everyone can dig in. Or, for a charming single-serve presentation, ladle Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli into individual bowls and finish with custom toppings—think toasted pine nuts, lemon zest, or even a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cool, any leftovers can be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for a delicious next-day lunch.

Freezing

For longer storage, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for up to two months, though the sauce may thicken a bit after being frozen. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

To bring your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli back to life, reheat gently in a covered skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently for even heating, and garnish fresh when serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Absolutely! Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package and adjust your boiling time accordingly. Add the broccoli a few minutes before the pasta is finished—this keeps everything perfectly timed and delicious.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you’d like a lighter version, half-and-half works beautifully and still yields a creamy, satisfying sauce. Even whole milk will do in a pinch, though your sauce will be a touch thinner.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply leave out the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For extra protein, you might add white beans, sautéed mushrooms, or extra tortellini. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli easily becomes a plant-forward star.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. Peas, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes are all tasty additions that bring extra flavor and nutrition. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they stay vibrant and colorful.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers so they stay creamy?

I recommend reheating slowly over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce smooth and silky. Stirring gently helps evenly distribute the heat without drying out the chicken or overcooking the tortellini.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing family and friends gather around the table for a meal that’s hearty, homemade, and a total crowd-pleaser. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is exactly that kind of dish. It’s easy enough for busy nights but delicious enough to feel like a special treat—so don’t hesitate to give it a try soon!

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