ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and dried oregano (if using). Add the chicken to the pan and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary, and sauté the minced garlic over medium heat for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should just become aromatic.
3. Cook the Broccoli:
Add the broccoli florets to the pan with the garlic. Stir to coat, and then add a small splash of water (about 2 tablespoons) to help steam the broccoli. Cover the skillet and let the broccoli cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until it’s tender but still bright green. Stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
While the chicken and broccoli are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 3-4 minutes for fresh tortellini or 7-8 minutes for frozen). Once the tortellini is done, drain it and set it aside.
5. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
Once the broccoli is tender, add the heavy cream to the skillet with the garlic and broccoli. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it begins to simmer, stir in the parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese (if using). Keep stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Add a tablespoon of butter for extra richness, and stir until fully melted into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked chicken back to the pan and stir to combine. Then, add the cooked tortellini to the skillet and gently toss everything together until the pasta, chicken, and broccoli are well-coated in the creamy garlic parmesan sauce.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once everything is heated through and well mixed, remove from the heat. Serve immediately, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness.
Why This Dish Is So Irresistible:
- Rich, Creamy Sauce: The sauce in this dish is the star. Made with heavy cream, parmesan, and mozzarella, it’s indulgent but not overly heavy, and it perfectly coats the pasta and chicken. The garlic adds just the right amount of depth and flavor.
- Tender Chicken: The chicken is cooked to perfection—juicy and flavorful, absorbing the flavors of the sauce without drying out. It complements the creamy sauce and adds protein to the dish.
- Perfectly Cooked Broccoli: The broccoli adds a nice crunch and a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the richness of the sauce. The quick steam in the pan ensures it stays bright green and tender, without losing its bite.
- Comfort in Every Bite: Tortellini is already a comforting pasta, and when combined with the creamy sauce, chicken, and broccoli, it’s the ultimate cozy meal. This dish will make you feel like you’re being wrapped in a warm blanket after a long day.
Tips for Making the Best Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli:
- Use Fresh Tortellini: Fresh cheese tortellini will cook quicker and has a wonderful texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. However, frozen tortellini will work just as well if that’s what you have on hand.
- Customize the Vegetables: While broccoli is a perfect pairing here, you can swap it out for other veggies like spinach, zucchini, or asparagus. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Add a Little Heat: If you like a little spice, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic, or drizzle the finished dish with hot sauce for a kick.
- Make It Lighter: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, and use grated parmesan instead of mozzarella to reduce the fat content while still keeping the flavor rich.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is great for meal prep! Simply cook and assemble everything, then store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce nice and creamy.
Conclusion: A Delicious and Easy Meal for Any Night
Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is a dish that delivers comfort, flavor, and simplicity all in one. Whether you’re craving a hearty weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with a flavorful, easy-to-make meal, this dish checks all the boxes. With a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked tortellini, it’s a satisfying and nutritious meal the whole family will love.
So next time you’re short on time but want something delicious and comforting, give this recipe a try. It’s sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation.
ADVERTISEMENT
