Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a hearty, flavorful pasta dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and cheesy tortellini. The rich garlic Parmesan sauce ties everything together for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe will become a favorite in no time!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
• 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
• 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini

For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1: Cook the Tortellini

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the tortellini following the instructions on the package.
2. Drain the tortellini and set it aside while preparing the sauce.

2: Prepare the Sauce

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the minced garlic in the skillet for about 1 minute, stirring until it becomes fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.
4. Mix in the Italian seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper to suit your taste.

3: Combine the Ingredients

1. Add the cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and cooked tortellini to the skillet.
2. Toss everything gently to coat all the ingredients evenly in the sauce.

4: Simmer and Serve

1. Simmer the mixture for 2-3 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
2. Serve the dish immediately while it’s hot and creamy.

Helpful Tips

Cook Tortellini Al Dente

For the best texture, cook the tortellini until just al dente. Overcooking can cause the pasta to become mushy when combined with the sauce. Check the package instructions for the recommended cooking time, and test a piece for doneness.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh broccoli, garlic, and Parmesan cheese enhance the flavor of this dish. Avoid pre-shredded Parmesan, as it may not melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese. Freshly minced garlic also provides a stronger, more aromatic flavor.

Steam Broccoli Properly

Steam the broccoli until tender but still vibrant green. Over-steaming can cause the broccoli to lose its color and texture. A quick 3-4 minutes in a steamer or over boiling water works well.

Don’t Overheat the Sauce

Keep the heat at medium or low when preparing the sauce. Overheating can cause the cream to curdle, which affects the texture. Stir constantly to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.

Customize the Seasoning

Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or more Italian seasoning for an herby flavor. Taste the sauce before combining it with the tortellini and adjust as needed.

Variations

Vegetarian Version

For a meat-free option, skip the chicken and add more vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers make excellent additions that enhance the dish’s flavor and nutritional value.

Swap the Protein

If you’d like to try something different, replace the chicken with shrimp or turkey. Shrimp pairs beautifully with the garlic Parmesan sauce, offering a lighter and slightly sweet flavor.

Try Different Cheese

While Parmesan is the classic choice, other cheeses like Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or Gruyere can be used for a unique twist. Each cheese brings its distinct flavor, making the dish customizable to your taste.

Add a Spicy Kick

For those who enjoy spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce into the sauce. These additions add heat without overpowering the creamy, garlicky flavors.

Experiment with Pasta

Cheese tortellini is the star of this dish, but you can substitute it with ravioli or other stuffed pasta for a similar outcome. Spinach-and-cheese ravioli works especially well.

Boost the Veggies

Add extra vegetables like zucchini, snap peas, or carrots for a more colorful and hearty dish. Blanch or steam these veggies before mixing them into the pasta to maintain their texture.

Conservation and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep the creamy tortellini fresh, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container as soon as the dish has cooled to room temperature. Store the container in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the dish’s flavor and creamy texture.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

Although the sauce contains cream, you can freeze this dish with proper preparation. Let the tortellini cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.Allow some room at the top to accommodate expansion during freezing.. Freeze the dish for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tips

For the best results, thaw frozen tortellini overnight in the refrigerator. When reheating, transfer the dish to a skillet and warm it over low heat. Add a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Stir often to avoid sticking and ensure the dish heats evenly. If reheating in the microwave, cover the container with a microwave-safe lid and heat in short intervals, stirring between each one.

Avoid Overheating

Reheating the sauce on high heat may cause the cream to separate, resulting in a less smooth texture. Gentle heating is key to preserving the rich and velvety consistency of the garlic Parmesan sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Fresh Salads

Balance the richness of the creamy tortellini with a crisp green salad. A Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and tangy dressing works perfectly. Alternatively, a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.

Add Bread on the Side

Serve the tortellini with warm garlic bread, focaccia, or a crusty baguette. These bread options are ideal for soaking up the delicious garlic Parmesan sauce.

Include a Vegetable Side Dish

For a wholesome meal, pair the tortellini with roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or carrots. The roasted flavors complement the creamy sauce and add extra nutrients to your plate.

Perfect for Special Occasions

This dish makes a great centerpiece for a dinner party or holiday meal. Serve it alongside appetizers like bruschetta or caprese skewers for an elegant spread.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?

Yes, frozen tortellini works just as well as fresh. Cook it according to the package instructions before combining it with the sauce. Frozen tortellini is convenient and delivers the same delicious results.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. To thicken the sauce, whisk in a small amount of cornstarch or flour while heating. These alternatives maintain the creamy consistency while reducing calories.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the tortellini in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently, then combine it with the tortellini and other ingredients.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You can also try plant-based proteins like tofu or meat substitutes for added variety.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Cook the sauce over medium or low heat and stir constantly to prevent curdling. Avoid boiling the cream, as high heat can cause it to separate.

How long do leftovers last?

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a comforting and versatile dish that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and vibrant broccoli, creating a meal that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

This recipe offers flexibility, allowing you to customize it with different proteins, cheeses, or vegetables to suit your preferences. Whether you’re preparing it for your family or hosting guests, this dish never fails to impress.

Proper storage and reheating techniques ensure you can enjoy leftovers without losing the dish’s creamy consistency. Pair it with salads, bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete and well-rounded meal.

With its balance of richness and simplicity, this tortellini recipe is bound to become a favorite in your rotation. Try it once, and it’s sure to be requested time and again by everyone at your table!