Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli Delight 🥘🧀🥦
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a comforting and delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheese tortellini with a burst of fresh broccoli, then this creamy chicken tortellini recipe is perfect for you. This hearty pasta dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Its smooth, cheesy sauce perfectly coats the cheese tortellini and melts in your mouth, while the broccoli adds a fresh, nutritious touch.
2. Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli
- 1 pound cheese tortellini
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli
Preparation of ingredients
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. While waiting, prepare your chicken and broccoli, and gather all your ingredients for a smooth cooking process.
Cook the tortellini
Once the water is boiling, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the garlic and chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add cooked chicken, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté until heated through.
Prepare the broccoli
While the chicken is cooking, blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
Combine ingredients with creamy sauce
Add heavy cream to the skillet with chicken and garlic. Stir well, then add Parmesan cheese and cooked broccoli. Mix thoroughly.
Mix in the tortellini
Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and toss everything together. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to let flavors meld. Adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For reheating, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain creaminess.
5. Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas
This chicken pasta is best served hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Pair it with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. For an extra flavor boost, consider drizzling with a little garlic butter sauce.
6. Tips and Variations
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.
- Add a dash of red pepper flakes for spiciness.
- You can use cooked turkey or other leftover poultry instead of chicken.
7. Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Chicken Tortellini
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the tortellini in advance. Mix just before serving to keep the pasta from becoming soggy.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Thaw and drain frozen broccoli before adding it to the sauce. It works perfectly and saves preparation time.
How long does it take to prepare?
This dish takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying meal.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Make washing and chopping broccoli effortless and quick!
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures even cooking and easy cleanup for your pasta and sauce.
- KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer – Perfect for preparing chicken or mixing ingredients for other recipes.
9. Conclusion
Enjoying a bowl of creamy chicken tortellini with tender broccoli and a luscious sauce is truly a comfort food at its finest. This dish is versatile, quick to make, and full of flavor, making it a favorite for family dinners or hosting friends. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality pasta dish right in your own kitchen. Experiment with variations and enjoy every bite of this cheesy, creamy delight!
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Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli Delight
A simple, hearty one-pot creamy chicken tortellini with broccoli, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Loaded with tender pasta, juicy chicken, and vibrant broccoli, all in a rich, velvety sauce.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add tortellini and broccoli, cook until pasta is tender and broccoli is bright green, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook until cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for optimal flavor and texture.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half & half for a lighter version.
- Serve with extra Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon for added zest.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 125mg