Print

Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

5 from 14 reviews

This easy creamy tortellini with chicken and broccoli recipe is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender cheese tortellini is combined with juicy chicken breast pieces and nutritious broccoli florets, all enveloped in a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish offers a delicious balance of protein, veggies, and rich creaminess.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Pasta

  • 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables

  • 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or cooked)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy & Liquids

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Oils & Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions—3-5 minutes if fresh, or 8-10 minutes if frozen. Once cooked, drain the tortellini and set it aside.
  2. Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t brown or burn.
  4. Prepare Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the steamed broccoli florets and the drained tortellini. Toss everything together gently to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, adjust consistency by adding extra chicken broth or reserved pasta water. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Serve: Transfer the creamy tortellini with chicken and broccoli to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!

Notes

  • You can substitute the chicken breasts with cooked turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
  • If you prefer a lighter cream sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk or a lighter cream.
  • For a more intense garlic flavor, lightly roast the garlic before adding it to the skillet.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor; pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
  • To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy tortellini recipe, chicken broccoli pasta, easy weeknight dinner, Italian pasta dishes, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce