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If you are craving a dinner that feels both comforting and special, you absolutely must try this Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Skillet with Tender Chicken & Crisp Broccoli Recipe. Imagine pillowy cheese-filled tortellini coated in a luscious, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce, paired perfectly with juicy slices of golden chicken and vibrant, crisp broccoli. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, delivering a satisfying meal that can quickly become a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Skillet with Tender Chicken & Crisp Broccoli Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and pleasing textures. Each component, from the tender chicken to the fresh broccoli, plays a key role in the balance and vibrancy of the dish.
- Cheese-filled tortellini: The star of the dish, providing a rich, cheesy bite that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Adds protein and heartiness; cooking them golden ensures a savory depth.
- Broccoli florets: For a fresh, crisp element and a pop of green that brightens the skillet.
- Fresh garlic cloves: Infuses the sauce with aromatic, robust flavor that elevates every bite.
- Heavy cream: Creates a silky, rich base for the Parmesan to meld into.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated for the best texture and flavor punch.
- Butter and olive oil: The dynamic duo for sautéing and building flavor layers.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth while helping to create the creamy sauce.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties the herbs and flavors together harmoniously.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the dish perfectly.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Skillet with Tender Chicken & Crisp Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
Begin by boiling the cheese-filled tortellini in a large pot of salted water, following the package instructions. Once tender and soft, carefully drain the pasta and set it aside. This step prepares the foundation for your creamy skillet, ensuring the tortellini is perfectly cooked and ready to soak up all the sauce flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s beautifully golden and cooked through, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Then, transfer the chicken onto a plate and set aside to rest while keeping all those delicious crispy bits in the skillet for later.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
In the same skillet, toss in the broccoli florets. Sauté them for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn tender-crisp, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. This quick cook keeps the broccoli fresh and vibrant, adding just the right crunch to the finished dish. Remove and set the broccoli aside with the chicken.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter in the skillet. Add the freshly minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until its fragrance fills your kitchen—just be sure to watch closely so the garlic doesn’t burn and turn bitter. Next, pour in the chicken broth, gently scraping the skillet’s bottom to lift all those flavorful browned bits, creating a rich base for the sauce.
Step 5: Build the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing them to melt together and thicken the sauce over about 5 minutes. This step is where the magic happens—the sauce becomes silky, cheesy, and dreamy. Finish seasoning with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste, making sure the flavors are wonderfully balanced.
Step 6: Combine and Heat Through
Return the cooked chicken, broccoli, and tortellini to the skillet. Gently toss everything so each piece is generously coated with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Let the skillet cook for another 2 to 3 minutes to heat everything through and allow the flavors to meld into that irresistible harmony you’re aiming for.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once your Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Skillet with Tender Chicken & Crisp Broccoli Recipe is ready, serve it hot from the skillet. The moment you dig in, you’ll savor the perfect union of tender chicken, al dente tortellini, crisp broccoli, and that rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce that makes this dish an unbeatable crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Skillet with Tender Chicken & Crisp Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your skillet even further, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness. A little extra grated Parmesan just before serving adds an indulgent flourish that makes each bite even more decadent. For a subtle zest, a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil also works beautifully.
Side Dishes
While this skillet is wonderfully filling on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread can round out the meal nicely. A simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich Parmesan sauce, while warm, crusty bread helps soak up every last bit of that irresistible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Plate the skillet in rustic bowls or serve directly from the pan for an inviting family-style feel. For gatherings, consider dividing portions into individual ramekins and topping each with a sprig of herb and a Parmesan crisp to impress your guests with a touch of elegance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of this Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Skillet with Tender Chicken & Crisp Broccoli Recipe, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Stored properly, they will stay delicious for up to three days, making an easy and quick meal for the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to two months, but be mindful that the texture of the tortellini and broccoli can soften a bit upon thawing. To freeze, let the skillet cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and cover tightly. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally, to warm evenly without drying out the tortellini or chicken.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw it slightly and drain any excess water before sautéing to prevent the sauce from becoming too watery.
What type of cheese is best for the tortellini?
Cheese-filled tortellini with ricotta, mozzarella, or a blend works perfectly here since these cheeses melt beautifully and complement the creamy sauce.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
You can try half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich or thick. To maintain creaminess, consider adding a bit of cornstarch as a thickening agent.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra broccoli or other veggies like mushrooms or spinach for a vibrant, meatless version.
Can I prepare any parts of this dish in advance?
Definitely. You can cook the chicken and broccoli ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. When ready to cook, make the sauce and toss everything together for a quick assembly.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Skillet with Tender Chicken & Crisp Broccoli Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With its creamy sauce, tender meat, and fresh veggies, it’s an effortless yet impressive meal any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it part of your own favorite dinner rotation!
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Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Skillet with Tender Chicken & Crisp Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Skillet combines tender cooked chicken, crisp broccoli, and cheese-filled tortellini in a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a deliciously comforting one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb cheese-filled tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 chicken breasts or thighs (cooked and sliced)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cloves garlic (freshly minced)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (avoid powdered)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the Tortellini: In a large pot of salted water, cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts or thighs, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Broccoli: Using the same skillet, add the broccoli florets. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove the broccoli and set aside with the chicken.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to let it burn.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to build flavor.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and the cheese melts smoothly.
- Season the Sauce: Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken, broccoli, and drained tortellini to the skillet. Toss everything thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Finish Cooking: Let the combined ingredients cook together over medium heat for 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the skillet hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for added color and flavor. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful meal!
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen tortellini according to preference; fresh will cook faster.
- Chicken breasts or thighs can be substituted depending on your texture preference.
- Broccoli can be swapped for other vegetables like spinach or peas if desired.
- Make sure to not burn the garlic as it will turn bitter and affect the sauce flavor.
- If sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to adjust consistency.
- This recipe can be prepared ahead by cooking chicken and tortellini in advance and combining during final steps.
