How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli

If you’re craving a meal that’s comforting, flavorful, and comes together quickly, this Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli recipe is about to become your new favorite dinner go-to. Packed with tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and vibrant broccoli all coated in a luscious creamy sauce, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe delivers a satisfying mix of textures and tastes that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples and fresh produce that are easy to find and budget-friendly.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup thanks to cooking the chicken, broccoli, and tortellini together in one pan.
• Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Child-Friendly: Mild, creamy flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Balanced Meal: Protein, veggies, and carbs combined for a complete, nutritious plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this creamy chicken tortellini with broccoli recipe plays a key role, from adding depth to the sauce to providing texture and freshness. Using fresh broccoli and tender chicken breast alongside rich cheese tortellini ensures a beautiful dish both in flavor and appearance.

• Chicken breast: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking.
• Cheese tortellini: Fresh or frozen, choose your favorite brand for that perfect cheesy bite.
• Broccoli florets: Bright green and crisp-tender to add color and nutrition.
• Heavy cream: Provides the rich, velvety base for the sauce.
• Garlic: Minced, for a fragrant, savory punch.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated to deepen flavor and thicken the sauce naturally.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory moisture and enhances the overall taste.
• Olive oil or butter: For sautéing and adding richness.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing and amplifying all flavors.
• Italian seasoning: Optional, for an herbaceous note that complements the creaminess.

Variations for Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli

This dish is wonderfully versatile and easy to tweak depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Don’t hesitate to play around with ingredients to make it your own.

• Protein swap: Swap chicken for turkey, shrimp, or even a plant-based alternative for variety.
• Vegetable boost: Add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach to enrich the flavor and texture.
• Dairy alternatives: Use coconut milk or a cashew cream for a dairy-free twist without sacrificing creaminess.
• Spice it up: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a subtle heat kick.
• Cheese variations: Experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or ricotta for a different cheesy profile.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli

Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, add the broccoli florets and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they turn bright green and are crisp-tender.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic and Tortellini

Lower the heat and add a bit more olive oil or butter, then toss in the minced garlic. Stir frequently for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt. Add the cheese tortellini directly to the skillet along with the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook according to package instructions, typically 3-5 minutes, until the tortellini is tender.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Once the tortellini is cooked, pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently to combine everything, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken slightly. Return the cooked chicken and broccoli to the pan, folding everything together to coat evenly in that luscious sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Serve Hot

Once the sauce reaches the desired consistency and all ingredients are warmed through, remove the pan from heat. Scoop into bowls, enjoy the aromas, and prepare for a delightfully creamy and comforting meal.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli

• Use fresh tortellini: When possible, choose fresh over dried for creamier texture and shorter cooking time.
• Don’t overcook the broccoli: Keep it crisp to maintain color, nutrients, and a slight crunch in the dish.
• Grate cheese fresh: Pre-grated Parmesan often contains additives, so fresh cheese will melt better and taste richer.
• Simmer gently: Avoid boiling cream to prevent curdling; keep heat low once cream is added.
• Reserve pasta water: Save a bit of cooking liquid to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and a fresh herby note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also brighten up the dish.

Side Dishes

Pair this creamy chicken tortellini with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm focaccia also makes a wonderful accompaniment to soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the dish in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant broccoli and creamy sauce. For entertaining, dish portions onto warmed plates and garnish individually for a polished, restaurant-style presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover creamy chicken tortellini with broccoli in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, perfect for quick lunches or dinners.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you plan to store it longer. Use a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Rewarm leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to keep the sauce smooth.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well and is a convenient substitute; just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding to avoid excess water in the sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish holds up great for meal prep, staying flavorful and creamy even after a few days in the fridge.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to maintain heartiness.

What kind of tortellini is best?

Fresh cheese tortellini is ideal for creamy dishes due to its soft texture and rich filling, but frozen or refrigerated options work well too.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Add a bit more Parmesan cheese or cook the sauce a few extra minutes on low heat to reduce it and increase creaminess.

Final Thoughts

Give this Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli recipe a try and watch it quickly become a family favorite. Its rich sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli deliver a homemade touch with minimal effort. Once you make this dish, you’ll love how easy and rewarding dinner can be on even the busiest nights!

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