Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

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If you’re on the hunt for a comforting yet surprisingly simple dinner, this Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. It combines tender chicken, tender-cheesy tortellini, and vibrant broccoli all wrapped up in a luscious, creamy Parmesan sauce. The flavors meld together so beautifully that every bite feels special, and the best part is how effortless it is to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something delightful without fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe really shines through the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role—whether adding creaminess, freshness, or a punch of flavor—to create a perfectly balanced and satisfying dish.

• 12 oz cheese tortellini: Fresh or frozen tortellini bring that delightful cheesy bite that’s the heart of the dish.
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and tender protein throughout.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a rich base for sautéing the chicken and garlic, infusing the dish with subtle fruitiness.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic delivers that inviting aroma and depth of flavor you want in creamy pasta dishes.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, indulgent sauce that coats every bit of tortellini and broccoli perfectly.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds a savory note and helps balance the cream to keep the sauce luscious, not heavy.
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Gives the sauce its signature sharp, nutty flavor and irresistible creaminess.
• 2 cups broccoli florets: Steamed or cooked, these add a fresh pop of green and a bit of crunch to contrast the soft pasta.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together harmoniously.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds warmth and a subtle herbal lift to the chicken.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: For a bright, fresh garnish that adds a lovely color contrast and freshness to the final plate.

How to Make Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in the cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions—fresh tortellini takes about 3 to 5 minutes, while frozen will need around 8 to 10 minutes. Once tender and buoyant, drain the pasta carefully and set it aside. This step ensures your tortellini is perfectly tender yet firm enough to soak up that creamy sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the tortellini cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook until golden on the outside and fully cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and that fragrant Italian seasoning to layer in warmth and herbaceous notes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside—this keeps it juicy and ready to be folded back into the sauce.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until it releases its inviting aroma but doesn’t brown. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently as you bring everything to a light simmer. Let it cook for a couple of minutes to slightly thicken and meld the flavors. Then sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted, resulting in a rich and velvety sauce that clings beautifully to every ingredient.

Step 4: Combine Chicken, Broccoli, and Tortellini

Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and add the steamed broccoli florets. Stir in the drained tortellini, tossing everything together so the creamy sauce coats the pasta, chicken, and broccoli evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—this finishing touch ensures each forkful bursts with flavor.

How to Serve Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that lights up the creamy richness of the dish. You can also add a few grinds of black pepper or an extra dusting of Parmesan for that picture-perfect finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a loaf of crusty bread to mop up every last drop of sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple tomato salad can add a fresh contrast to the creamy textures on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions or when you want to impress, serve this dish in rustic shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant greens and creamy sauce. Garnish with a lemon wedge for a zingy option, or sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top for an added crunch and nutty aroma that takes this Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe to the next level.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delicious as the first.

Freezing

If you want to save portions for later, this recipe freezes well. Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to two months. To keep the best texture, consider freezing without the broccoli and adding fresh when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir frequently until warmed through and creamy again. Microwaving works too but stirring halfway through helps maintain that perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use different types of tortellini for this recipe?

Absolutely! Cheese tortellini is classic here, but feel free to experiment with spinach or meat-filled varieties. Just adjust the cooking time if needed and keep in mind the flavors may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply leave out the chicken and perhaps add hearty mushrooms or sautéed tofu to maintain protein content. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth keeps the sauce flavorful and vegetarian-friendly.

How do I steam the broccoli for this recipe?

Steaming broccoli is easy: place the florets in a steamer basket over boiling water, cover, and steam for about 4 to 5 minutes until crisp-tender. This keeps the broccoli bright green and perfect for mixing into the creamy sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the creamy sauce portion in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, reheat gently and add cooked chicken, broccoli, and tortellini to finish the dish quickly.

What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want a lighter sauce?

For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk combined with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Keep in mind the sauce may be less rich but will still deliver plenty of comforting flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something wonderfully satisfying about a dish that feels indulgent but comes together with ease—and this Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe checks all those boxes. It’s perfect for bringing warmth and joy to any mealtime, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a favorite repeat on your dinner rotation. Go ahead and give it a whirl—you’ll thank yourself for this delicious, comforting hug on a plate!

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