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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli combines tender cheese-filled tortellini, juicy chicken breast, and fresh broccoli in a rich, savory garlic Parmesan cream sauce. This quick and comforting one-pot dish balances creamy indulgence with wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta & Proteins

  • 12 oz cheese tortellini
  • 1 lb chicken breast, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables

  • 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Dairy & Fats

  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Trim the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, chop broccoli into small florets, and finely mince the garlic cloves to maximize flavor.
  2. Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Garlic and Broccoli: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil or butter if needed. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add broccoli florets and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp while retaining a vibrant green color.
  4. Cook Tortellini: Meanwhile, prepare the tortellini according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes until al dente. Drain and add directly to the skillet with garlic and broccoli.
  5. Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese continuously until the sauce thickens and evenly coats the tortellini.
  6. Combine and Finish: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together ensuring the chicken, tortellini, and broccoli are thoroughly coated in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
  • Cook tortellini until just al dente to maintain firm texture.
  • Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for optimal melt and taste.
  • Sauté broccoli last to keep it crunchy and vibrant.
  • Simmer sauce gently on low heat to avoid curdling and ensure creaminess.
  • Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley or basil, extra Parmesan cheese.
  • Serve with Caesar salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze up to 2 months.
  • Reheat gently on stove or microwave in intervals to prevent sauce separation.

Nutrition

Keywords: tortellini, chicken, broccoli, creamy sauce, garlic, Parmesan, easy dinner, one-pot meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://withnora.com/creamy-garlic-parmesan-tortellini-with-chicken-broccoli/