Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Recipe With Chicken and Broccoli

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is a great option. It combines cheese tortellini, chicken, and broccoli in a rich, creamy sauce that’s easy to whip up. In just five minutes, you can have a flavorful dish ready for dinner. But before you start cooking, let’s explore why this recipe stands out and how you can customize it to your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Why do so many people rave about creamy garlic Parmesan tortellini? It’s all about the ease and flavor!

You’ll love that tortellini cooks in just about 5 minutes, making it a quick meal option. The recipe uses simple ingredients like garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, which you probably have on hand. Plus, you can whip it all up in one pot, keeping cleanup easy. The sauce is rich and creamy, with a lovely garlic flavor balanced by Italian seasoning. In addition, fresh tortellini cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

You can even customize it by adding chicken or veggies for extra nutrition. It’s a satisfying dish that fits any occasion, from busy weeknights to special gatherings, making it a crowd-pleaser you won’t want to miss!

History

Tortellini has a rich history that dates back to the 12th century, showcasing its evolution from humble beginnings to a beloved dish.

Early forms of stuffed pasta appeared around this time, likely created to use up leftover meats from noble feasts. By the 14th century, recipes began to emerge, describing fillings like pork loin.

During the Renaissance, renowned cook Bartolomeo Scappi wrote about “torteletti,” resembling what’s understood today. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini is a modern twist that combines traditional flavors with convenient ingredients.

The 19th century saw a passionate debate between Bologna and Modena over tortellini’s true birthplace, which was settled in favor of Castelfranco Emilia.

As mass production began in the 1960s, tortellini gained popularity in Italy, becoming a staple in kitchens worldwide, showcasing its adaptability and timeless appeal.

Recipe

Key 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 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 1/2 cups broccoli florets, steamed or blanched
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
– Starchy pasta water for sauce consistency (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the starchy pasta water if needed for the sauce.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still crisp. Remove the broccoli and set aside with the chicken.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
Combine the cooked tortellini, sautéed chicken, and broccoli into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat everything through.
Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. This one-pot meal is not only delicious but also perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Extra Tips

Feel free to customize this dish by experimenting with different types of tortellini, such as three-cheese or spinach-filled varieties.

Adding Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor profile to match your taste preferences.

Remember to adjust the thickness of the sauce with starchy pasta water as needed, and don’t hesitate to add more vegetables or protein to make the dish your own!

Enjoy your creamy garlic Parmesan tortellini!

Final Thoughts

Although preparing a creamy garlic Parmesan tortellini dish might seem intimidating at first, it’s actually quite simple and rewarding. With a preparation time of about 20 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious meal in no time.

Start by cooking your tortellini until it floats in boiling, salted water, while sautéing minced garlic for that perfect aroma. To thicken your sauce, whisk flour into melted butter, then add heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for extra flavor. By steaming the broccoli and combining everything in one pan, you create a complete dish that’s not only tasty but also a good source of protein.

Enjoy your culinary creation and impress your family or friends!

FAQ

Have questions about making creamy garlic Parmesan tortellini? You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. When reheating, use a microwave or stove, and add milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much. To keep the sauce smooth, consider adding a splash of water.

Cook tortellini until they float to avoid overcooking, and steam broccoli until it’s bright green. For the best flavor, grate fresh Parmesan cheese. If you need ingredient substitutions, opt for gluten-free pasta or omit chicken for a vegetarian dish. Remember, chicken broth is recommended for enhancing the overall flavor profile.

If the sauce thickens too quickly, thin it with pasta water or broth. Remember to taste the sauce frequently to balance the seasoning!