Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting dish that’s simple to whip up but bursts with flavor, this Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe is just what you need. Tender cheese-filled tortellini bathed in a rich, velvety Parmesan cream sauce combined with juicy chicken pieces and vibrant green broccoli makes for a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re after a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to impress friends, this recipe delivers indulgence without fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe plays a key role in building layers of flavor and creating that luscious texture we all crave. Each element is straightforward and easy to find, yet together they create something truly special.

• 12 oz cheese tortellini: Fresh or frozen, these little pillows of cheesy goodness are the heart of the dish.
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and tender bites.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing the chicken and garlic with a subtle fruity undertone.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant warmth that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• 1 cup heavy cream: The star ingredient that makes the sauce irresistibly smooth and rich.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and helps balance the creaminess without overpowering.
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Melts into the sauce for that signature cheesy tang and silkiness.
• 2 cups broccoli florets: Steamed or cooked, they bring freshness, color, and a healthy crunch.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings to enhance every component.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevates the flavor with an herbaceous note.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: Used as a garnish, it adds a pop of green and a bright, fresh finish.

How to Make Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This ensures your tortellini cooks evenly and gains just the right texture. Whether fresh or frozen, follow the package instructions closely — usually 3-5 minutes for fresh or 8-10 for frozen — then drain carefully and set aside. Cooking the tortellini properly sets a great foundation for the whole dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they’re golden on the outside and cooked through inside. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning as they cook — this infuses them with lovely herbaceous notes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside so you can build the sauce in the same pan.

Step 3: Build the Cream Sauce

Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté briefly for about a minute until fragrant but not browned — this releases its aromatic flavor perfectly. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Let it cook undisturbed for 2 or 3 minutes until it begins to thicken. Then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy sauce that clings luxuriously to every bite.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the steamed broccoli florets. Finally, toss in the cooked tortellini and stir gently to combine everything evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Give everything a good taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Final Touch and Serve

Transfer your creamy creation to warm plates and garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley. This simple herb adds brightness that cuts through the richness and makes the dish look as inviting as it tastes. Serve it while hot and watch everyone dive right in!

How to Serve Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

Garnishes

To make this dish even more appealing, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor. You can also add a little extra grated Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy kick. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few chili flakes can add another dimension if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

This creamy tortellini pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf also complements the creamy sauce perfectly, soaking up every last drop. For a vegetable side, roasted asparagus or a simple tomato bruschetta keeps things fresh and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve the tortellini in shallow bowls to emphasize the creamy sauce. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch. If you want a family-style presentation, a large serving dish with sprigs of fresh herbs and lemon wedges on the side invites everyone to dig in together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce and tortellini intact to preserve flavor and texture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, it’s best to do so without the broccoli, as it can become mushy. Portion the tortellini and chicken with sauce in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid microwaving at full power to prevent the sauce from breaking. Slow and gentle warming helps maintain that creamy texture you love.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta instead of tortellini?

Absolutely! While tortellini is perfect for this recipe, you can substitute with ravioli, gnocchi, or even penne for a slightly different texture. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Is it okay to use low-fat cream or milk?

Using lighter dairy options is possible, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be as rich and velvety. Heavy cream is recommended to get that luscious, creamy texture everyone loves in this dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. You can also use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for the sauce.

How do I prevent the broccoli from getting mushy?

Steam or cook the broccoli just until bright green and slightly tender—overcooking will cause it to become mushy once combined with the sauce. Adding it at the final step ensures it stays crisp and vibrant.

What can I add to spice up the dish?

A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika stirred into the sauce can add warmth and depth without overpowering the creamy balance of flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Creamy Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to meals whenever I want something comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. The combination of tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and fresh broccoli in a rich sauce is simply irresistible. I promise once you try it, it will become a staple in your kitchen too—so grab your ingredients and start cooking!

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