Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a hearty, comforting, and indulgent pasta dish that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures in one skillet. Tender cheese-filled tortellini is smothered in a velvety garlic parmesan cream sauce and paired with juicy chicken breast and tender broccoli florets. It’s everything you want in a cozy dinner—creamy, cheesy, and full of familiar, comforting ingredients that the whole family will love.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something filling and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. Made with fresh or frozen tortellini and pantry staples like garlic, cream, and parmesan, it’s both easy to prepare and full of gourmet appeal. The chicken adds protein, while the broccoli brings a pop of color and nutrition to the plate.

Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping, or simply want a satisfying homemade dinner, this one-pan meal checks all the boxes. It’s rich enough to feel indulgent, yet balanced with vegetables and simple ingredients. Serve it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete and delicious dinner that’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A full meal in one pan—protein, veggies, and pasta all in one
• The garlic parmesan cream sauce is rich, smooth, and bursting with flavor
• Perfect for weeknights—ready in about 30 minutes
• Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or protein
• Family-friendly and great for leftovers

Ingredients

• Cheese tortellini
• Chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Parmesan cheese
• Broccoli florets
• Salt and pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley

Variations

• Use a different pasta: Swap tortellini for ravioli or regular pasta if needed
• Make it vegetarian: Omit chicken and add mushrooms or more vegetables
• Add spice: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a little kick
• Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
• Extra cheesy: Stir in mozzarella or cream cheese for added richness

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 5

Add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until fully melted and smooth.

Step 6

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the steamed broccoli and cooked tortellini. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce.

Step 7

Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 8

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor
• Don’t overcook the broccoli—steam it just until tender to keep its bright color and texture
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash more broth or cream to loosen it
• Stir gently when combining ingredients to avoid breaking the tortellini
• Cook chicken in batches if your pan is small to ensure even browning

How to Serve

Serve this creamy tortellini hot, straight from the skillet, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra parmesan on top. It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. For a comforting dinner party, serve with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some sauce over time, so you may need to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Note that the cream sauce may slightly separate upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works just as well. Cook according to package instructions before adding to the dish.

2. How do I steam broccoli?

Steam in a steamer basket over boiling water for 4–5 minutes, or microwave with a bit of water for about 2–3 minutes.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook everything ahead and store in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.

4. Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream for a lighter sauce, though it won’t be as rich.

5. What can I use instead of chicken?

Try shrimp, turkey, or leave it out for a vegetarian version.

6. Will this work with store-bought Alfredo sauce?

You can use Alfredo sauce in a pinch, but the homemade version offers better flavor and freshness.

7. Is this dish gluten-free?

Not unless you use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

8. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Mushrooms, peas, or spinach are great additions.

9. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Avoid high heat when adding cream and cheese. Keep the heat medium-low and stir frequently.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger skillet or cook in batches to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is a satisfying, flavorful, and incredibly simple dish that combines everything you love about comfort food in one pan. With tender pasta, rich cream sauce, juicy chicken, and wholesome broccoli, it’s a complete meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Quick to prepare and easy to adapt, it’s the perfect go-to for any night of the week.

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