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Creamy garlic parmesan tortellini dish with chicken and broccoli served in a bowl.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

A cozy and quick dinner made with rich garlic sauce, cheese tortellini, chicken, and fresh broccoli.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt & black pepper to taste Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • 12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
  • 3 tbsp butter Use unsalted butter for better control of salt.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic gives a bigger flavor.
  • 1 cup heavy cream For a silkier sauce.
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth Use to adjust sauce consistency.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Use good quality, not pre-grated.
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) For a hint of spice.
  • Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
  • Extra Parmesan (for garnish)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook tortellini per package directions. Add broccoli in the last 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Cooking Chicken
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and no pink inside, about 5–7 minutes. Remove chicken and keep the fond in the pan.
Making the Sauce
  1. Lower heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Whisk in softened cream cheese until smooth and silky.
  3. Add Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Return chicken to the pan and add cooked tortellini and broccoli, tossing gently to coat with sauce.
Serving
  1. Taste and adjust salt and pepper, then serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.

Notes

Time-saver: Use pre-cut broccoli or frozen. Common mistake: if sauce splits, whisk in a splash of broth. Variation: Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.