Name: Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen); 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or cooked); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

If you’re looking for a versatile and comforting meal that combines ease with delightful flavors, look no further than this Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli recipe. This one-skillet wonder encapsulates the essence of Italian-American cuisine, expertly blending tender cheese tortellini, juicy chicken, and bright broccoli in a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.

Not only is this Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli recipe a breeze to prepare, but it also brings a touch of elegance to your dinner table. With its creamy sauce and colorful ingredients, it satisfies both the eyes and the palate. The addition of garlic and Parmesan elevates the flavors, while the chicken and broccoli round out the dish with their rich textures and nutrients, making this meal both delightful and wholesome.

From the simmering sauce to the tender pasta, every element of this dish is designed to leave you feeling satisfied without overwhelming your schedule. Within just 30 minutes, you can create a beautiful dish that feels indulgent yet is simple enough for any home cook to master. Prepare to impress your guests or treat yourself to a comforting dinner with this Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
One-Skillet Meal: Less mess is always better! Everything cooks in one skillet, which means easy cleanup.
Flavor Packed: Creamy garlic Parmesan sauce takes this dish to the next level with rich and delightful flavors.
Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and healthy greens from the broccoli, this meal offers balance.
Versatile: Customize it with your choice of proteins or vegetables to suit your family’s preferences.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to set up your kitchen for success. Start by gathering your ingredients: cheese tortellini, chicken breasts, garlic, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and broccoli. Having everything within reach makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

For this recipe, you will need a large pot for boiling water and a spacious skillet for cooking the chicken and sauce. Make sure your skillet is large enough to accommodate all ingredients once tossed together. A good-quality knife and cutting board are needed for chopping chicken and garlic. A spatula or wooden spoon will be ideal for mixing everything in the skillet.

Ingredients

12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or cooked)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This step is crucial as it seasons the tortellini while it cooks. Once the water is boiling, add your cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions: 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini, or 8-10 minutes for frozen. Once they’re cooked to tender perfection, drain and set them aside on a plate while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Carefully add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the hot skillet and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s golden brown and cooked all the way through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. This will allow the chicken to rest while you move on to the next steps.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic, allowing it to sauté for about a minute until fragrant, but be cautious—it should not be browned. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Gradually add in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts into a creamy and flavorful sauce. The smell of this sauce will be irresistible!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

After your sauce is creamy and well-integrated, return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the prepped broccoli. Add the drained tortellini and gently toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. If you find that the sauce is too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little extra chicken broth or reserved pasta water. Finally, taste and make any necessary seasoning adjustments before serving.

Transfer the creamy tortellini mixture onto serving plates or a large platter. To finish, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve this comforting meal hot and enjoy every scrumptious bite!

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Variations

Protein: Swap out the chicken for shrimp, diced ham, or grilled tofu for a different protein option.
Vegetables: Add in other vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or peas for added color and nutrients.
Spices: Experiment with spices like red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a dash of lemon zest for brightness.

Cooking Notes

Feel free to use store-bought tortellini or make your own for a truly authentic experience.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with a combination of milk and Greek yogurt.
Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce and pre-cook the chicken a day ahead, then just combine when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
A warm, crusty bread would be perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.

Tips

Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken; this will ensure it browns beautifully and cooks evenly.
If using frozen tortellini, remember to add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time for perfect tenderness.
Always taste your sauce before serving; small adjustments can make a big difference!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approx. 650 per serving
Protein: 30 grams
Sodium: 800 milligrams

FAQs

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add additional vegetables or plant-based protein for a hearty vegetarian option.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover creamy tortellini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I freeze this dish?

While freshly made tortellini is best, cooked dish can be frozen for up to a month. Allow to cool completely before freezing in a suitable container.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream, a mixture of milk and sour cream, or Greek yogurt as lighter alternatives to heavy cream.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience of flavor and comfort that can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or for a gathering with friends, it guarantees satisfaction all around. We encourage you to experiment with the variations and make this dish uniquely yours. Don’t forget to share your experiences or ask questions in the comments below, and most importantly, enjoy this delicious pasta dish that’s sure to warm your heart and home!