Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Cheese Tortellini: 1 pound Chicken Breast: 2 breasts, cubed Fresh Broccoli: 2 cups florets Heavy Cream: 1 cup Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated Garlic Cloves: 3 cloves, minced Butter: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that delivers creamy comfort, restaurant-quality flavors, and minimal fuss, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is pure mealtime magic. Think plump, pillowy tortellini swimming in a silky Parmesan garlic sauce, tender bites of juicy chicken, and bursts of fresh green broccoli all in one skillet. This is a dinner that tastes like you worked on it all day—yet it comes together in a snap. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini isn’t just a meal; it’s a showstopper you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of stellar ingredients, you can elevate every bite and master the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini. Each item plays a key role in creating this irresistible harmony of flavors and textures, making every step worth savoring.

Cheese tortellini: These tender, cheesy pasta pockets soak up all the creamy sauce and provide the ultimate comfort food base.
Chicken breast: Diced and seared for juicy, protein-packed bites that bulk up the dish and pair beautifully with the cheesy flavors.
Fresh broccoli: Adds a pop of color and a crisp-tender crunch, balancing out the richness of the sauce and cheese.
Heavy cream: Lends a luscious, velvety texture to the sauce, making every bite absolutely decadent.
Parmesan cheese: The true star—choose freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for the most depth and creaminess in your sauce.
Garlic cloves: A few cloves sautéed to golden perfection infuse the whole dish with fragrant, savory goodness.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create the ideal creamy sauce when combined with garlic and cream.
Olive oil: Essential for searing the chicken to a golden crust and bringing extra flavor to each step.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—this step is essential for seasoning the pasta itself. Add your cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions just until al dente. Right before draining, scoop out a cup of the starchy pasta water; this little trick will help loosen or smooth out your sauce later. Drain the tortellini and set it aside so it’s ready to soak up that creamy goodness.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

While the pasta is bubbling away, steam your broccoli florets for about three to four minutes, just until they turn bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately give them a cold plunge in ice water to stop the cooking process—this locks in the color and keeps them perfectly snappy instead of mushy. Drain them well and set aside with the tortellini.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Next, cube your chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken on all sides until each piece is golden and cooked through—this usually takes around six to eight minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken out of the skillet to make room for the next steps, but keep those tasty pan juices.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out—you want all those flavorful bits!), melt your butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for about a minute until it becomes wonderfully fragrant without browning. Then, slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking steadily so everything melds into a smooth, thick sauce base.

Step 5: Add the Parmesan Cheese

Take the skillet off the heat and gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is silky and perfectly creamy. If it feels a bit thick, this is where that reserved pasta water works its magic—add a splash at a time until you hit your ideal consistency. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste for that custom finish.

Step 6: Combine Everything for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Perfection

Now comes the truly fun part! Return the seared chicken to the skillet, then add your cooked tortellini and crisp broccoli. Gently toss everything together so each bite is generously coated in sauce. Serve right away with an extra snowfall of Parmesan and watch everyone at the table light up.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini

Garnishes

A final flourish can take Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini from comforting to eye-catching. A sprinkle of fresh Parmesan, finely chopped parsley, or even a dash of red pepper flakes add both color and a flavor boost right before serving. Don’t skip these little touches—they turn a humble skillet into a restaurant-worthy presentation.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich and satisfying all on its own, but Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini always shines next to a crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette. A hunk of warm, crusty bread or garlic knots is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, too. For a little extra indulgence, roasted veggies or a simple tomato salad are excellent sidekicks.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, try serving individual portions of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini in shallow bowls topped with a Parmesan crisp or microgreens. For family-style dining, garnish a big platter and let everyone help themselves. You can even bake leftovers in a small casserole, topping with extra cheese and broiling until golden for a cozy, bubbling effect.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini left after dinner, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep beautifully for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld and deepen, making leftovers just as tempting for tomorrow’s lunch or a quick weeknight dinner.

Freezing

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini can be frozen for up to two months, though the sauce might thicken or separate slightly upon thawing. For best results, let the dish cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and reheat slowly. Add a splash of milk or cream while reheating to help restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini on the stovetop over low heat, adding a touch of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as needed. If microwaving, sprinkle a few drops of water on top and cover loosely to keep the pasta moist. Stir halfway through to make sure everything heats evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?

Absolutely! While cheese tortellini brings tons of flavor and texture, you can substitute with ravioli, gnocchi, or even simple penne—just adjust the cooking time as needed for the best results.

What’s the best way to avoid greasy or separated sauce?

Make sure to slowly add the cream and cheese off the heat to prevent overheating. Whisk continuously and add some reserved pasta water if the sauce looks too thick, ensuring everything stays silky and smooth.

Can I add other vegetables to Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini?

Definitely. Peas, baby spinach, or sautéed mushrooms all play well with the creamy garlic sauce. Just be sure not to overload the skillet—pick one or two veggie additions for balance.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply skip the chicken and add extra broccoli or swap in meatless chicken strips. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce and tortellini are just as delicious all on their own!

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

You sure can. Prepare the sauce up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to assemble, gently reheat the sauce and proceed with combining the chicken, pasta, and broccoli for a quick finish.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a repeat favorite in so many kitchens—it’s easy, crazy delicious, and sure to win over even picky eaters. I hope you’ll give this recipe a spin and make your weeknights just a bit more special. Let this cheesy, garlicky goodness become a new classic at your table!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 6 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender cheese tortellini with seared chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce.

Ingredients

Cheese Tortellini:

1 pound

Chicken Breast:

2 breasts, cubed

Fresh Broccoli:

2 cups florets

Heavy Cream:

1 cup

Parmesan Cheese:

1 cup, grated

Garlic Cloves:

3 cloves, minced

Butter:

2 tablespoons

Olive Oil: