Let me tell you, this creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli is one of my go-to comfort meals! Seriously, there’s just something magical about the combination of tender tortellini, juicy chicken, and vibrant broccoli all swimming in that luscious, creamy garlic sauce. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! This dish has become a family favorite because it’s not only delicious, but it’s also super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want to impress your friends with your cooking skills.
And here’s the best part: you can customize it to your heart’s content! Want to swap out the chicken for shrimp? Go for it! Feeling adventurous and want to add some extra veggies? Absolutely! This recipe is versatile enough to fit whatever mood you’re in, and trust me, it never disappoints. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into making this delightful dish together!
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli
Alright, here’s what you’ll need to bring this creamy goodness to life! Gather these ingredients, and let’s get cooking:
- 8 oz tortellini – I love using cheese-filled tortellini, but any kind you fancy will work!
- 2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen, just make sure they’re bite-sized for easy mixing!
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded – This is a great way to use up leftover chicken. If you don’t have any, rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver!
- 2 tbsp olive oil – This adds a rich flavor when sautéing the garlic.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Trust me, the more garlic the better! It gives that aromatic punch.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This is where the creaminess comes from. Pure bliss!
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese – Freshly grated if you can, it melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out all those wonderful flavors!
Once you’ve got all these goodies, you’ll be just a few steps away from a bowl of creamy, dreamy deliciousness!
How to Prepare Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli! I promise, it’s easier than you might think, and the result is absolutely drool-worthy. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
First things first, let’s get that tortellini cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, toss in your 8 oz of tortellini. Now, cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. You want it to be al dente, so it has a nice bite to it. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking! Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside for later. Easy peasy!
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Next up, let’s give our 2 cups of broccoli florets some love! If you have a steamer basket, great! Just place the florets in there and steam them over boiling water for about 5-7 minutes until they’re tender but still bright green. If you don’t have a steamer, you can microwave them with a splash of water in a covered bowl for about 3-4 minutes. Either way, you want them perfectly cooked but not mushy. We’re aiming for that beautiful crunch!
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Now, let’s make that luscious sauce! In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add in the 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Ooh, that smell is heavenly! Then, pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese and mix until it’s melted and smooth. This is where the magic starts! You can taste it at this point and add a pinch of salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Finally, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked tortellini, shredded chicken, and steamed broccoli into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Gently mix everything until it’s all coated in that heavenly sauce. This is where you want to taste it again and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve it hot, and get ready to dig in! I can’t wait for you to experience this creamy delight!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can whip up this creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich Flavors: The combination of garlic, parmesan, and cream creates a luscious sauce that’s absolutely irresistible. Every bite is a flavor explosion!
- Nutritional Value: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the broccoli, this dish is not only delicious but also satisfying and nutritious.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute chicken for shrimp or tofu, and mix in your favorite veggies to make it your own!
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to option for family dinners.
- Comfort Food Classic: There’s something so comforting about a creamy pasta dish that warms you right up, perfect for any occasion!
Tips for Success
Alright, before you dive headfirst into this creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!
- Adjust the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add an extra clove or two! But if you’re looking for a milder flavor, start with the recommended amount and taste as you go.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli really makes a difference in both flavor and texture. But hey, if frozen is what you’ve got, don’t hesitate to use it! Just make sure to thaw it properly first.
- Shred Your Own Chicken: If you have the time, cooking and shredding your own chicken adds a homemade touch and allows you to control the seasoning. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers!
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Remember, you want your tortellini al dente! It’ll continue cooking a bit when you mix it with the hot sauce, so take it off the heat just before it’s fully done.
- Experiment with Herbs: Toss in some fresh basil or parsley at the end for an extra burst of freshness! You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a little kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Make It Ahead: If you’re planning a busy week, you can prepare everything in advance—just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to bring it back to life!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a creamy, dreamy dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!
Variations to Try
Now, let’s talk about how you can mix things up with this creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli! One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun variations you can try to keep things exciting:
- Swap the Protein: If you’re in the mood for something different, consider using shrimp or even tofu instead of chicken. Both options will soak up that creamy sauce beautifully!
- Mix in Different Veggies: Feel free to add in other veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms. They’ll add great texture and flavor, plus a pop of color!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs! Basil and parsley are fantastic choices, but don’t shy away from trying thyme or even a sprinkle of dill for a refreshing twist.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. It’ll add a nice kick that complements the creaminess!
- Cheese Variety: While parmesan is a classic, you can also mix in some mozzarella or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just think about what you love and go for it!
- Italian Flair: Add a tablespoon of pesto for a burst of herby goodness! It’ll give your dish an Italian twist that you’ll absolutely love.
With these variations, you can keep this dish fresh and exciting every time you make it! So, have fun mixing and matching flavors until you find your perfect combination! I can’t wait to hear which one you try!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers of your creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli! If you’re lucky enough to have some extra, you’ll want to store it properly so it stays just as tasty for your next meal.
First things first, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your pasta soggy. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to label it so you don’t forget about it lurking in the back of the fridge!
Now, when it comes to reheating, I recommend using the stovetop for the best results. Just add your leftover tortellini to a skillet over medium heat and stir in a splash of cream or a little bit of water to help bring it back to life. This way, it’ll heat evenly without drying out. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through, and voila! You’ll be enjoying that creamy goodness all over again.
If you’re in a rush, you can certainly use the microwave—just make sure to heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, so it doesn’t get too hot in some spots and cold in others. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to keep the moisture in. But honestly, the stovetop is where the magic happens!
And if you happen to have more than you can eat within a few days, you can freeze it! Just pack it in a freezer-safe container, and it should stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. You might want to add a splash of cream when reheating to help it regain that creamy texture.
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll never waste a bite of this creamy delight! Happy storing!
Nutritional Information
So, you might be wondering just how hearty this creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli is! Here’s a quick breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving. Keep in mind, these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
This dish packs a good punch of protein, thanks to the chicken, and offers a nice balance of carbs and fats. It’s comfort food that won’t leave you feeling guilty! So go ahead and enjoy every creamy bite, knowing you’re treating yourself to something delicious and satisfying.
Share Your Experience
I’d love to hear all about your adventures with this creamy garlic parmesan tortellini with chicken and broccoli! Did you try any fun variations? Maybe you swapped in shrimp or added some colorful veggies? Whatever it was, please share it with me! Your tips and experiences not only make my day, but they also help others in the kitchen, too.
If you enjoyed this recipe, I’d be thrilled if you could take a moment to rate it! Your feedback means the world to me and helps build this amazing community of home cooks. And don’t forget to snap a pic of your delicious creation and share it on social media! Tag me so I can see your beautiful dishes and cheer you on. Let’s spread the love for cooking together!
Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear from you!
Imprimer
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli Bliss
- Temps Total: 25 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Faible En Calories
Description
A creamy garlic parmesan tortellini dish with chicken and broccoli.
Ingrédients
- 8 oz tortellini
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions.
- Steam broccoli until tender.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
- Add cooked tortellini, chicken, and broccoli. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variety.
- Adjust garlic quantity based on preference.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 15 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Course
- Méthode: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 600mg
- La graisse: 25g
- Graisses Saturées: 15g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 7g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 40g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 20g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 80mg
Mots-clés: creamy garlic parmesan tortellini, chicken and broccoli, easy pasta recipe
