Why Make This Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is an easy and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy tortellini. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a simple meal with friends. The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a rich flavor, and the addition of broccoli adds a nutritious touch. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes to prepare!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook tortellini according to package directions, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until cooked through, then remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté until fragrant. Add broccoli florets and cook until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Stir in Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat.
- Add the drained tortellini to the skillet and toss gently to combine and heat through. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread. Enjoy it with your family or friends for a comforting meal.
How to Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
- Make sure not to overcook the broccoli; it should be bright green and slightly crisp.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creaminess.
- Feel free to adjust the garlic amount based on your taste preference.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes. If you prefer a lighter option, try using whole wheat tortellini.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just cook them according to the package instructions.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine everything just before serving.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt. Keep in mind the sauce may be less rich but still delicious!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini
- 2 pieces chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Use freshly grated for best flavor
- 2 cups broccoli florets Cook until bright green and tender-crisp
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Cook tortellini according to package directions, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until cooked through, then remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets and cook until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Stir in Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat.
- Add the drained tortellini to the skillet and toss gently to combine and heat through.
Serving
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
