Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that combines comfort and elegance in one bowl, you’re going to absolutely love this Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of tender cheese tortellini, juicy chicken pieces, and vibrant broccoli all tossed in a rich, velvety Parmesan cream sauce. This dish is not only incredibly satisfying but also surprisingly simple to pull together, making it a fabulous option for any weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat. Once you try it, it’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to recipes for a delicious and hearty meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients create spectacular flavors in this recipe, each playing an important role—from hearty protein to fresh veggies and that luscious creamy sauce that brings everything together.

• 12 oz cheese tortellini: Using fresh or frozen tortellini works perfectly to provide a tender, cheesy bite that’s the star of the dish.
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, chicken adds wonderful protein and pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing the chicken to golden perfection.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings a fragrant depth of flavor that makes the sauce irresistible.
• 1 cup heavy cream: The base for the rich and creamy sauce that coats the tortellini and chicken.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and a savory backbone to the sauce, balancing the richness of the cream.
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Parmesan melts to create that signature cheesy sauce with a salty, nutty kick.
• 2 cups broccoli florets: Steamed or cooked until tender, broccoli provides a fresh pop of green and a healthy crunch.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: To season each component perfectly and enhance all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds an aromatic and slightly earthy touch to the chicken.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: For a bright, fresh garnish that finishes the dish with color and flavor.

How to Make Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions—fresh tortellini typically takes 3 to 5 minutes, while frozen might need about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside. This step ensures your tortellini is perfectly tender and ready to soak up that delicious creamy sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown and is cooked through. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm. The golden crust on the chicken adds wonderful texture and flavor to the dish.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for just about a minute, until fragrant but not browned—this is where the magic starts. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly for 2 to 3 minutes. Then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking until the sauce is melted, smooth, and creamy. This sauce is the heart of the Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the steamed broccoli florets. Finally, add the cooked tortellini and toss everything together gently to coat all the ingredients in that luscious creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it up with a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Your dish is virtually ready to delight!

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the creamy tortellini, chicken, and broccoli to serving plates and sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley. This colorful burst of green not only brightens the dish but adds a delightful fresh flavor. Serve hot and get ready to savor every comforting bite.

How to Serve Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil brighten the dish with color and a hint of freshness. A little extra grated Parmesan on top can add more cheesy goodness and create a lovely texture contrast. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick.

Side Dishes

This hearty tortellini dish pairs beautifully with crisp side salads like arugula or Caesar, which provide a refreshing counterbalance to the richness. Light garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette also complement the creamy sauce perfectly for dipping. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus bring a crunchy, healthy side option that enhances the meal’s vegetable presence.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, consider serving this Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe in individual shallow bowls for that cozy, restaurant-style presentation. Garnish with edible flowers or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil to give it an elegant flair. Layering the pasta and broccoli evenly helps showcase the vibrant greens against the creamy sauce, making it just as beautiful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, any leftovers can be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, so before reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to return it to that perfect creamy consistency.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, making it convenient for busy days. Pack leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To prevent the broccoli from becoming too soft, slightly undercook the broccoli during initial preparation if you plan on freezing.

Reheating

Reheat the leftovers on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Add a little chicken broth, cream, or even milk to loosen the sauce as it warms so it regains its luscious texture. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and the tortellini intact.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of tortellini?

Absolutely! While cheese tortellini works beautifully, you can swap it for ravioli, gnocchi, or even farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the pasta is perfectly cooked.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also add a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu to keep it satisfying. The creamy sauce remains delicious with these changes.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

While heavy cream is ideal for the richest and creamiest sauce, you can substitute with whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter version. Keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as thick, so you might need to simmer it a little longer.

How do I steam the broccoli for this recipe?

Steaming broccoli is easy—just place the florets in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 4 to 5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Alternatively, you can microwave with a little water covered with a microwave-safe lid or wrap for similar results.

Can I prepare any parts of this dish in advance?

Definitely! You can chop the chicken and broccoli ahead of time. Cook the tortellini and store it separately to prevent it from getting mushy. The sauce can also be made in advance and gently reheated when you’re ready to combine everything.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. It’s perfectly balanced with comforting creaminess, wholesome protein, and fresh veggies, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for busy nights but special enough for entertaining. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Happy cooking!

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