A creamy, flavorful weeknight dinner, this Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is a delightful dish that brings together tender tortellini, juicy chicken, and fresh broccoli in a rich Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy evenings or family gatherings, this recipe promises a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Combination: The rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan blend wonderfully with chicken and broccoli for an irresistible taste.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp or keep it vegetarian by adding more vegetables.
- Creamy Texture: The heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that coats the tortellini perfectly, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish, making it ideal for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making this savory dish, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having the proper equipment can simplify the cooking process and enhance your overall experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini, allowing for ample space to cook evenly.
- Skillet: Useful for sautéing the chicken and garlic while preparing the creamy sauce simultaneously.
- Colander: Helps drain the tortellini easily without losing any pieces in the process.
Ingredients
For the Tortellini
- 1 lb cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
For the Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes(optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
- While the tortellini is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, basil, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic.
- Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt.
- Pour in heavy cream; bring it to a simmer.
Step 4: Combine Sauce with Cheese
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese into the simmering cream.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens; add reserved pasta water if too thick.
Step 5: Mix Everything Together
- Add cooked chicken and steamed broccoli back into skillet.
- Stir in cooked tortellini; toss to coat everything in creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your comforting Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Serving Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is a delightful experience. This creamy dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes to enhance its flavors.
Garnish Ideas
- Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Extra Parmesan: Add more grated Parmesan cheese for an indulgent touch.
- Crushed Red Pepper: For those who like heat, sprinkle crushed red pepper for an extra kick.
Accompaniments
- Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Side Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
- Steamed Vegetables: Additional steamed vegetables like carrots or zucchini can add freshness.
Wine Pairing
- Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp white wine pairs beautifully with creamy sauces, enhancing the flavor profile.
- Chianti: A light red wine option that matches well with Italian cuisine.
How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
To ensure your Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli turns out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh tortellini and broccoli enhances flavor and texture.
- Adjust Cream Consistency: Keep pasta water handy to adjust the sauce’s thickness if needed.
- Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure chicken pieces are cooked until golden brown for the best taste.
- Don’t Overcook Garlic: Sauté garlic just until fragrant to prevent bitterness in the sauce.
- Mix Constantly: Stir constantly when adding cheese to achieve a smooth sauce without lumps.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
Pair your delicious Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli by choosing from these fantastic side dishes. Each will complement your main course beautifully.
- Caesar Salad: A classic salad topped with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing.
- Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and seasoned, roasted asparagus adds a nice crunch.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and garlic makes for a refreshing appetizer.
- Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves on skewers offer a fresh taste.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside this dish.
- Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with slivered almonds add a nutty flavor contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe should be a delightful experience. However, several common mistakes can lead to less-than-ideal results.
- Overcooking the Tortellini – This can make them mushy. Always follow package instructions and cook until al dente for the best texture.
- Skipping Seasoning the Chicken – Not seasoning your chicken can result in bland flavors. Make sure to season well with salt, pepper, and herbs before cooking.
- Burning the Garlic – Garlic can burn quickly, turning bitter. Sauté it on medium heat and don’t leave it unattended.
- Not Using Reserved Pasta Water – This water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency. Always reserve some before draining the tortellini to achieve a creamy texture.
- Adding Broccoli Too Late – If you add broccoli to the sauce too late, it may not be tender enough. Steam it beforehand or add it early in the cooking process.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
- Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about this dish, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries regarding the Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works perfectly. Just cook according to package instructions.
How can I customize this recipe?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. Adjust spices based on your preference as well!
What can I serve with this dish?
This recipe pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and reheats easily, making it perfect for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
The Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize ingredients based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that will surely satisfy your cravings—give it a try!
Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli
Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is an irresistibly creamy and flavorful dish that brings together tender cheese tortellini, juicy chicken, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a rich Parmesan sauce. This quick weeknight meal can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families or anyone seeking a satisfying dinner without the hassle. The delightful combination of garlic and cheese creates a comforting taste that both kids and adults will love. With versatile ingredient options, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences—whether swapping chicken for shrimp or adding extra veggies. Enjoy this comforting Italian-American favorite tonight!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
- 1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- Olive oil
- dried basil
- dried parsley
- red pepper flakes (optional)
- salt
- pepper
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve about 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, basil, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown; remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in grated Parmesan until melted and sauce thickens; add reserved pasta water if too thick.
- Return chicken and steamed broccoli to the skillet; toss with cooked tortellini until well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 1/4 of the total recipe)
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
