Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is a rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines tender cheese tortellini, juicy chicken breast pieces, and vibrant broccoli florets, all enveloped in a luscious garlic-infused Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Protein
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package directions, usually 3-5 minutes, until tender. Drain well and set aside.
- Prepare Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are bright green and slightly tender, approximately 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside to preserve their vibrant color and texture.
- Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, releasing the garlic’s aromatic flavors.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, enhancing the savory depth of the dish.
- Combine All Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken, drained tortellini, and steamed broccoli to the skillet. Stir gently to coat everything evenly with the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Allow the combined ingredients to simmer together for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh touch, and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamier and more flavorful sauce.
- You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like spinach or asparagus based on preference or seasonal availability.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the heavy cream to 3/4 cup and add extra chicken broth.
- Paprika is optional but adds a subtle smoky note to the chicken.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
