Description

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal combining tender chicken pieces, fresh broccoli, and cheesy tortellini in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish is packed with creamy texture and a delicious blend of herbs and spices that elevate the classic pasta experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
2 cups broccoli florets
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & black pepper to taste
12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (use good quality, not pre-grated)
2 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Extra Parmesan (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare Tortellini and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking. Drain both and set aside.
Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet, leaving the browned bits (fond) in the pan.
Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Whisk in the softened cream cheese until the sauce is smooth and silky. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add the cooked tortellini and broccoli. Gently toss everything to coat evenly with the creamy sauce.
Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Time-saver: Use pre-cut broccoli or frozen broccoli florets to save preparation time.
Common mistake: If the sauce splits or curdles, whisk in a splash more chicken broth to smooth it out.
Variation: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: creamy garlic parmesan tortellini, chicken and broccoli pasta, creamy pasta recipe, easy dinner recipes, one pan meal, garlic cream sauce