Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Skillet with Tender Chicken & Crisp Broccoli

Introduction

This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Skillet with Tender Chicken & Crisp Broccoli is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines rich, creamy goodness with fresh ingredients for a meal everyone will love. The cheese-filled tortellini is cooked to perfection and smothered in a luscious garlic Parmesan sauce, paired with tender slices of chicken and crispy broccoli for a well-rounded dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or hosting a cozy meal with friends, this skillet dish brings comfort and flavor in every bite. The best part? It’s quick and simple, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend indulgence. With the perfect balance of savory chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh vegetables, this recipe will soon become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is rich and flavorful, coating the tortellini perfectly and bringing a comforting taste that everyone will enjoy.

2. Packed with Protein

With tender chicken breast or thighs, this dish is loaded with lean protein, making it satisfying and filling.

3. Fresh, Healthy Veggies

The crisp broccoli adds a nice crunch and freshness to the dish, balancing out the creamy sauce and giving the dish a healthy, vibrant twist.

4. Easy One-Pan Meal

This recipe comes together in one skillet, saving you time on prep and cleanup. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something quick and easy but still delicious.

5. Versatile and Customizable

You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. Add extra veggies, use different pasta shapes, or even make it gluten-free!

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• Cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• Chicken breast or thighs (cooked and sliced)
• Broccoli florets
• Garlic (freshly minced for the best flavor)
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese (grated, not the powdered stuff)
• Butter and olive oil
• Chicken broth
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use tofu or more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortellini to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Extra Veggies: Add more vegetables like zucchini, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat in the creamy sauce.
• Chicken Alternatives: Swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even sausage for a different protein.

How to Make the Recipe

1. Cook the Tortellini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced cooked chicken and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté until the chicken is golden and heated through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender but still crisp. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer again. Let the sauce thicken slightly for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken, broccoli, and tortellini to the skillet. Toss everything together in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce until well coated and heated through.
7. Serve: Serve the Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Skillet warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers the best flavor, so avoid using pre-chopped garlic or garlic powder for this recipe.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you want a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
• Perfectly Cooked Tortellini: Be careful not to overcook the tortellini, as it can get mushy. Cook it al dente for the best texture.
• Add Extra Protein: If you want to make this dish even heartier, add bacon, pancetta, or sausage for extra flavor.
• Customize the Veggies: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different veggies. Spinach, bell peppers, or peas would all be delicious additions.

How to Serve

This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables. For a more indulgent meal, serve it with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan or freshly chopped parsley on top for garnish before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the leftovers on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a bit of extra cream or broth to loosen up the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
   Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce and cook the tortellini ahead of time. Simply assemble and reheat when ready to serve.
3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
   Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken is a great time-saving option.
4. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, any pasta shape you prefer will work, though tortellini adds a nice touch to this dish.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy sausage instead of chicken for some heat.
6. Can I use a non-dairy substitute for the cream?
   Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a non-dairy version.
7. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   This recipe is not gluten-free, but you can easily swap the tortellini for gluten-free pasta.
8. How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
   Make sure to cook the sauce on low heat once the cream is added, and stir constantly to keep it smooth.
9. Can I add more vegetables?
   Yes, feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or peas to the skillet for extra veggies.
10. Can I freeze this recipe?
    Yes, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it completely before reheating.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Skillet with Tender Chicken & Crisp Broccoli is the perfect comfort food that combines creamy, savory flavors with healthy ingredients. It’s quick, easy, and customizable, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a filling family dinner or a flavorful meal to impress guests, this recipe won’t disappoint. With its rich garlic Parmesan sauce, tender chicken, and fresh broccoli, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Print