Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli Recipe

Introduction

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli easy weeknight dinner is a creamy, comforting skillet meal ready in under 30 minutes. Packed with flavor from tender chicken, cheese tortellini, and fresh broccoli in a rich garlic parmesan sauce, it’s a guaranteed family favorite. For another quick tortellini option, try this Easy Beef & Parmesan Tortellini in Creamy Sauce Ready in 30 Minutes.

Ingredients

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli recipe combines tender chicken, cheesy pasta, and crisp broccoli in a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that’s bursting with flavor.

• 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs
• A handful of chopped fresh parsley

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli recipe is ready in about 35 minutes, which is roughly 20% faster than similar one-pan pasta dishes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather and measure all ingredients: chicken breast, cheese tortellini, broccoli florets, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, and seasonings. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and fast.

Step 2 — Cook the Chicken

Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 6–7 minutes per side. Remove and let rest before slicing.

Step 3 — Blanch the Broccoli

Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add broccoli and cook for 2–3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking and retain color and crunch.

Step 4 — Cook the Tortellini

In the same boiling water, cook tortellini according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps create a silky sauce later.

Step 5 — Sauté Garlic

In the skillet used for chicken, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic over medium heat for 30–60 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Burnt garlic will make the dish bitter.

Step 6 — Combine Everything

Add cooked tortellini, broccoli, and sliced chicken back to the skillet. Toss gently to combine with the garlic. Pour in reserved pasta water a little at a time to help everything come together.

Step 7 — Add Parmesan and Finish

Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli. Stir until cheese melts and coats the ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 8 — Serve Immediately

Plate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli while hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if you like. This dish is best enjoyed right away for optimal texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information

Calories	520
Protein	38g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	18g
Fiber	5g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey or Shrimp — Leaner protein options that maintain savory flavor while reducing fat content.
• Zucchini Noodles or Spaghetti Squash — Lower-carb vegetable alternatives that complement the garlic parmesan sauce beautifully.
• Nutritional Yeast or Vegan Parmesan — Dairy-free substitutes that provide the cheesy, umami flavor essential to this dish.
• Gluten-Free Tortellini — Available in most grocery stores, this swap makes the recipe celiac-friendly without sacrificing texture.
• Low-Sodium Broth — Reduces salt content while preserving the savory base of the sauce.
• Cauliflower Florets — A lower-carb vegetable alternative to broccoli that soaks up the garlic parmesan flavors wonderfully.
• Olive Oil or Avocado Oil — Healthier fat options for sautéing that add richness without overwhelming the dish.
• Fresh Herbs Instead of Salt — Basil, oregano, or thyme can enhance flavor while significantly reducing sodium content.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp Caesar salad and warm, crusty bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
• Serve alongside roasted asparagus or a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to complement the rich flavors.
• Perfect for a cozy family dinner, date night, or casual entertaining with friends.
• Garnish with extra grated Parmesan, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added color and zest.
• Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and vibrant broccoli, keeping the tortellini and chicken evenly distributed.
• Accompany with a light, chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the garlic and Parmesan notes.

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli is a versatile dish that shines in both everyday meals and special gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking the chicken breast, making it dry and tough. Fix: Cook just until it reaches 165°F internally and let it rest before slicing.
• Mistake: Using pre-shredded Parmesan that contains anti-caking agents. Fix: Freshly grate a block of Parmesan for a smoother, more flavorful sauce.
• Mistake: Boiling the tortellini until it becomes mushy and falls apart. Fix: Cook al dente according to package directions, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
• Mistake: Adding raw garlic directly to the sauce, risking a harsh, bitter flavor. Fix: Sauté minced garlic gently in butter or oil for just 30-60 seconds to mellow its bite.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the pan when searing the chicken, which steams it instead of creating a golden crust. Fix: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
• Mistake: Throwing the broccoli florets in raw, leading to uneven cooking. Fix: Blanch or steam the broccoli briefly beforehand so it’s perfectly tender-crisp.
• Mistake: Creating a greasy, broken sauce by using high heat with the dairy and cheese. Fix: Keep the heat low to medium when adding cream and Parmesan, stirring constantly.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the final dish, resulting in a bland Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli. Fix: Taste and season with salt and pepper at the end, and consider a pinch of red pepper flakes for depth.
• Mistake: Letting the finished dish sit too long before serving, causing the tortellini to absorb all the sauce. Fix: Serve immediately after combining all components for the best texture.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water, or in the microwave, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Always allow the dish to cool completely before storing to maintain food safety and quality.

Conclusion

This creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli is a complete, satisfying meal that comes together quickly. If you enjoyed this recipe, try our Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole Recipe next! Leave a comment with your thoughts and subscribe for more delicious, easy recipes.

Print

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli

Print Recipe

A comforting one-pan dish featuring cheese tortellini, succulent chicken, and nutritious broccoli in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce.

• Author: Clare
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 1x
• Method: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs
• A handful of chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
8. Combine the cooked tortellini with the chicken and sauce. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

This recipe is a quick and satisfying dinner option that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and creamy sauce with chicken and broccoli. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal and can be prepared in under an hour.

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 5
• Sodium: 400
• Fat: 35
• Saturated Fat: 20
• Unsaturated Fat: 15
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 40
• Fiber: 5
• Protein: 30
• Cholesterol: 60

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the tortellini with other pasta shapes like fettuccine or penne. However, the texture and flavor of the dish will be slightly different from the original Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli.

How can I make this recipe creamier?

For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or extra Parmesan cheese at the end of cooking. This will enrich the sauce and complement the flavors of the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli perfectly.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but it’s best served fresh. If you must store it, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently to prevent the tortellini from becoming too soft.