Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, yet elegant dinner that comes together in under 40 minutes, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and vibrant broccoli swim in a silky garlic Parmesan sauce that feels like a big warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings something special, whether it’s flavor, texture, or a fresh pop of color on the plate that makes this dish shine.

• Fresh cheese tortellini: The star pasta here — it cooks quickly and adds cheesy pockets that melt in your mouth.
• Boneless chicken breast: Cubed for quick cooking and tender bites throughout the dish.
• Fresh broccoli florets: Steamed to bring bright color and a pleasant crunch for balance.
• Heavy cream: Creates the luscious base for the sauce, making every bite rich and decadent.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty depth that’s classic in Italian cooking.
• Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse the entire dish with that unmistakable aromatic punch.
• Butter and olive oil: These fats bring flavor and help in cooking the chicken and sauce perfectly.

Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations

One of the best things about this garlic Parmesan chicken tortellini is how you can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs without losing any of its soul. Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!

• Swap out the tortellini: Use spinach or mushroom-filled tortellini, or even ravioli for a delightful twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas for extra texture and color.
• Make it lighter: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream cheese for a lighter sauce.
• Spicy kick: Sprinkle in red chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for those who like a little heat.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Toss in the fresh cheese tortellini and cook until just al dente according to package instructions — this ensures the pasta holds its shape during tossing. Before draining, reserve a cup of the pasta water, which will help loosen the sauce later if needed. Set the tortellini aside once drained.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

Place the broccoli florets into a steamer basket and steam for 3 to 4 minutes—just enough to turn them bright green and keep that satisfying crisp-tender bite. To halt the cooking instantly and preserve color, plunge the broccoli into an ice water bath, then drain well and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Season the cubed chicken breast generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet, then add the chicken in a single layer. Sear until every side turns a lovely golden brown and the chicken is cooked through—this usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside, leaving any flavorful bits in the pan.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Lower the heat to medium, then melt the butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and let it sauté just about one minute until fragrant—be careful not to brown it, as burnt garlic can add bitterness. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously to marry the butter and cream. Remove the skillet from heat and gradually whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until you have a smooth, velvety sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water little by little to reach your perfect consistency.

Step 5: Combine and Toss Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the cooked tortellini and steamed broccoli. Gently stir everything together, making sure each piece is coated beautifully with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Once everything is well combined and heated through, it’s ready to serve. Don’t forget an extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top for that final touch!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe

Garnishes

Finish your dish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness. A light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a lovely depth, depending on your mood.

Side Dishes

This creamy chicken tortellini pairs perfectly with light sides like a crisp Caesar salad or roasted asparagus spears. For bread lovers, garlic bread or a warm focaccia rounds out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this dish in warm individual bowls with a small sprinkle of microgreens on top for an elegant touch. You can also plate it family-style in a large skillet or dish, letting everyone help themselves—nothing beats that communal feel!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, but a quick stir or splash of milk when reheating brings back the creamy texture.

Freezing

This recipe can be frozen but might lose some creaminess upon thawing. If freezing, separate the chicken and tortellini from the sauce, freeze individually, and combine when reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for long periods to prevent the chicken from drying out and the sauce from breaking.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feel both indulgent and homey. Its quick prep and cook time make it a lifesaver when you want something impressive without the fuss. Trust me, once you try it, this creamy, garlicky pasta will become a staple in your dinner rotation. Go ahead, give it a whirl—you’re going to love every bite!

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