Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

A rich and satisfying one-pan meal packed with flavor

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. It combines tender chunks of seasoned chicken, cheesy tortellini, and crisp broccoli florets, all enveloped in a luscious garlic parmesan cream sauce. The result is a balanced, hearty, and indulgent dish that comes together in about 30 minutes, using just one pan for easy cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The garlic parmesan sauce is velvety and decadent.
• One-Pan Meal: Fewer dishes, more convenience.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both adults and kids.
• Customizable: Swap proteins or add extra veggies.
• Ready in 30 Minutes: Ideal for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 package (about 9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Chicken
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Cook for 5–6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Seasonings
   In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Broccoli and Liquids
   Stir in the broccoli florets, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 4–5 minutes, until broccoli begins to soften.
4. Add Tortellini
   Add the cheese tortellini directly to the skillet. Simmer uncovered for 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini is tender and the sauce starts to thicken.
5. Add Parmesan and Chicken
   Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes.
6. Finish and Serve
   Add a tablespoon of butter for extra richness if desired. Garnish with parsley and crushed red pepper flakes. Serve hot.

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Possible Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add mushrooms or extra broccoli.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Protein Swap: Use shrimp or Italian sausage instead of chicken.
• Cheese Boost: Mix in mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses with Parmesan.
• Low-Carb: Substitute tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower gnocchi.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 generous portions
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of tortellini should I use?

Use fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini for the best texture and quick cooking. Frozen tortellini can be used but may require a few extra minutes to cook.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the full dish ahead and reheat before serving. However, the tortellini may soften more over time, so al dente cooking is recommended if making ahead.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely. Thaw it slightly or add directly to the skillet. Cook a bit longer to ensure it’s fully heated through.

What’s the best chicken cut for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Use full-fat cream and add the Parmesan slowly while stirring to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency. Avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cheese.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your broth and Parmesan are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy-based sauce and pasta, which can separate and become mushy upon reheating.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese can work, though the sauce may be thinner.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes. Mushrooms, peas, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions to this recipe.

What sides go well with this meal?

A crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread pairs nicely with the creamy, hearty dish.

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Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is a satisfying, easy-to-make dinner that hits all the right notes—savory, cheesy, comforting, and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping, or just want a quick yet indulgent dish, this recipe brings flavor and balance to the table. Give it a try once, and it’ll likely become a staple in your rotation.

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