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Let me share one of my favorite weeknight dinner miracles this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Tortellini. I first whipped it up on a busy evening when I needed something quick but special and now it's become our most requested comfort meal. The way those cheese filled tortellini swim in that garlic parmesan sauce alongside tender chicken and fresh broccoli it's simply heavenly.
Why You Need This Recipe
Trust me this dish is pure magic. It's got everything we love creamy sauce pillowy tortellini tender chicken and just enough broccoli to make it feel wholesome. The best part? It all comes together in just 30 minutes in one pan. Even my pickiest eater cleans their plate when this is on the menu.
Let's Gather Everything
- Chicken: 1 lb boneless skinless breasts cut into bite sized pieces.
- Broccoli: 2 cups fresh florets I try to cut them evenly.
- Tortellini: 1 lb fresh or frozen both work great.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons use the good stuff here.
- Garlic: 3 cloves minced fresh is worth it.
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup I prefer low sodium.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup this makes everything luxurious.
- Parmesan: ¾ cup freshly grated melts like a dream.
- Salt & Pepper: ½ teaspoon each adjust to taste.
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons fresh chopped for color.
Let's Cook Together
- Start With The Chicken
- Get your biggest skillet hot add that olive oil and cook your chicken until it's golden brown. This is where we build our first layer of flavor.
- Add Some Garlic Love
- Turn the heat down a bit and add your minced garlic. Let it get fragrant but watch it carefully garlic can burn in a blink.
- Create The Sauce
- Pour in your broth and cream scraping up all those tasty bits from the bottom of the pan. That's where the magic lives.
- Everything In The Pool
- Now add your tortellini and broccoli bring it to a gentle bubble cover and let everything cook together until tender.
- Make It Cheesy
- Stir in that beautiful Parmesan until it melts into the sauce. Top with fresh parsley and dinner is served.
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My Best Tips
I've made this countless times and here's what I've learned watch your sauce carefully add a splash of broth if it gets too thick. Always grate your own Parmesan the pre shredded stuff just doesn't melt right. And don't rush the chicken browning that's where so much flavor comes from.
Serving Ideas
We love this with garlic bread for soaking up every drop of that amazing sauce. A simple green salad on the side makes it feel complete. My spice loving husband always adds red pepper flakes to his bowl but it's perfect just as is.
Save Some For Later
If you're lucky enough to have leftovers they'll keep nicely in the fridge for about three days. When you're ready for round two warm it gently with a splash of cream or broth to bring back that silky sauce. Just keep the heat low and stir often it's worth the extra attention.
Why We Love It
This dish has saved dinner at my house more times than I can count. It's got that restaurant quality taste but comes together so easily. Between the creamy sauce tender chicken and those perfect little tortellini it hits all the right notes. Once you try it I bet it becomes your go to comfort meal too.
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Make It Your Own
Don't be afraid to switch things up. Sometimes I'll use turkey instead of chicken or throw in different vegetables based on what's in my fridge. Extra garlic is always welcome in our house and a handful of spinach at the end adds beautiful color and extra nutrition.
Meal Prep Magic
This recipe is perfect for planning ahead. I often make a double batch and portion it out for lunches through the week. Just remember when you reheat it add a little splash of cream and warm it slowly. Your coworkers will be jealous of your gourmet lunch.
Kids Love It Too
I've found this is the perfect way to get kids excited about eating their vegetables. Something about that cheesy sauce makes everything irresistible. My little ones actually get excited when they smell the garlic and Parmesan cooking it's become their favorite dinner.
Fancy Enough for Company
Don't let the quick cooking time fool you this dish is elegant enough for guests. The colors are beautiful the aroma is amazing and everyone thinks you've spent hours in the kitchen. It's my secret weapon for easy entertaining.
Reinvent Your Leftovers
Sometimes I'll turn leftovers into a whole new meal by adding extra cheese on top and baking it until bubbly. Or toss in some fresh vegetables to create a completely different dinner. It's like having two meals in one and nothing goes to waste.
Pure Comfort Food
Every time I make this dish I'm reminded why simple ingredients combined with a little love make the best meals. That creamy garlic Parmesan sauce those tender tortellini the perfectly cooked chicken and broccoli it all comes together to create something truly special. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to ours.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use fresh or frozen tortellini. Fresh takes 3-5 minutes to cook, while frozen needs 8-10 minutes. Both work well in this recipe.
- → Why save the pasta water?
Pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency. The starchy water can thin out the sauce if it gets too thick, while maintaining its creamy texture.
- → Why steam broccoli first?
Steaming broccoli before adding it helps maintain its bright green color and ensures it's perfectly tender without overcooking in the sauce.
- → Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
Fresh grated Parmesan is recommended as it melts better and has better flavor. Pre-grated cheese often contains additives that prevent smooth melting.
- → How do I prevent the chicken from sticking?
Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken, and ensure the pan is hot before adding the pieces. This helps achieve a golden crust and prevents sticking.