Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli a creamy, cheesy, and garlicky pasta dish loaded with juicy chicken, tender tortellini, and fresh broccoli—this recipe is perfect for a quick and comforting meal. The rich garlic Parmesan sauce brings everything together, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chicken & Pasta:
2 chicken breasts, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
2 cups broccoli florets
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
2 tablespoon unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
½ cup chicken broth
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese, for topping
Directions
Cook the Tortellini & Broccoli
Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the boiling water.
Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cook until golden brown and fully cooked (about 5-6 minutes).
Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Assemble the Dish:
Add the cooked tortellini, broccoli, and chicken back to the skillet.
Toss everything in the creamy sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until well coated.
Serve & Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Serve warm with garlic bread or a fresh side salad.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
Lighter Version – Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lower-fat option.
Extra Creamy – Stir in ¼ cup of cream cheese for a richer sauce.
Vegetarian Option – Skip the chicken and add more veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
Spicier Kick – Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat – Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce's consistency.
Freeze – Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate.
FAQs
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
I recommend cooking the chicken and sauce in advance, then storing them separately. When ready to serve, cook the tortellini and broccoli fresh and reheat everything together.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Just follow the package instructions for cooking, and add the broccoli during the last 2 minutes.
What can I serve with this dish?
Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with this creamy pasta.
How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much, I stir in a little extra chicken broth or cream while reheating to loosen it up.
Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese?
I recommend sticking with Parmesan for the best flavor, but Pecorino Romano or Asiago can work as alternatives.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli is a simple yet indulgent meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy garlic Parmesan sauce, juicy chicken, and tender pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether I make it for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, it always hits the spot.
Recipe:
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini and Broccoli
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A creamy, cheesy, and garlicky pasta dish loaded with juicy chicken, tender tortellini, and fresh broccoli—this recipe is perfect for a quick and comforting meal. The rich garlic Parmesan sauce brings everything together, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Pasta:
2 chicken breasts, diced
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp Italian seasoning
1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
2 cups broccoli florets
For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
½ cup chicken broth
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese, for topping
Instructions
-
Cook the Tortellini & Broccoli
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
- In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the boiling water.
- Drain and set aside.
-
Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook until golden brown and fully cooked (about 5-6 minutes).
- Transfer to a plate and set aside.
-
Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
-
Assemble the Dish
- Add the cooked tortellini, broccoli, and chicken back to the skillet.
- Toss everything in the creamy sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until well coated.
-
Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve warm with garlic bread or a fresh side salad.
Notes
Use half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
Add cream cheese for an extra creamy sauce.
Swap chicken for mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetarian option.
To store, refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
