Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

Quick Overview

Indulging in a bowl of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli is like wrapping yourself in comfort. This dish combines tender tortellini with juicy chicken and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe is both simple and satisfying. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this delightful meal that will impress your loved ones and leave them asking for more.

Ingredient Breakdown

Tortellini

For this recipe, you will need 12 ounces of fresh or frozen cheese tortellini. Tortellini adds a satisfying texture and flavor to the dish. It cooks quickly and absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.

Chicken Breast

Use 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breast. Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Chicken breast provides lean protein that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Broccoli

You will need 2 cups of broccoli florets. Fresh broccoli adds crunch and color to the dish while also delivering essential nutrients. Steam or blanch the broccoli for optimal tenderness.

Heavy Cream

Add 1 cup of heavy cream to create the creamy base. The heavy cream enriches the sauce, making it luxurious and flavorful without being overly heavy.

Parmesan Cheese

Grate 1 cup of fresh parmesan cheese for maximum flavor. The sharpness of parmesan enhances the overall taste of the dish while also helping to thicken the sauce.

Garlic

Use 4 cloves of minced garlic to infuse flavor throughout the dish. Garlic adds an aromatic quality that complements both the chicken and the creamy sauce perfectly.

Olive Oil

Include 2 tablespoons of olive oil for cooking. Olive oil helps prevent sticking while adding a subtle richness to the overall flavor profile.

Salt and Pepper

A pinch of salt and pepper enhances all flavors in this recipe. Adjust according to your taste preferences to ensure every bite is seasoned perfectly.

Step By Step Recipe: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli

Cook the Tortellini

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add 12 ounces of tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the tortellini and set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Sauté Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add 1 pound of cut chicken breast pieces into the skillet. Cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before removing it from heat.

Add Broccoli

Next, add 2 cups of broccoli florets directly into the skillet with cooked chicken. Stir well to combine and cover for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Adjust heat as necessary to avoid burning any ingredients.

Incorporate Garlic

Once broccoli is tender, add in 4 minced garlic cloves into the skillet. Sauté everything together for about one minute until fragrant but not browned; this step releases the essential oils from garlic without burning them.

Create Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream into your skillet mixture while stirring gently to combine everything evenly. Bring it to a simmer over low heat while allowing flavors meld together beautifully; this should take approximately two minutes.

Mix in Cheese

After simmering, gradually whisk in 1 cup grated parmesan cheese until melted completely into your creamy sauce mixture without lumps remaining; continue stirring until well-combined for about one minute more.

Combine Ingredients

Finally, gently fold in your cooked tortellini from earlier into this creamy blend along with salt and pepper seasoning as needed; coat everything evenly so each piece is luxuriously covered in sauce! Allow it all to warm through for another couple minutes before serving up immediately!

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini hot directly from the skillet or transfer it into warmed bowls for an inviting presentation! Garnish each serving with additional grated parmesan cheese or freshly chopped parsley if desired; this adds both color and flavor!

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container placed in your refrigerator for up to three days! Make sure it cools down before sealing; this helps maintain freshness longer! Reheat gently on low heat while stirring often when ready to enjoy again!

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze some portions instead, allow them fully cool first before transferring them into freezer-safe containers; label clearly! They can last up six months frozen—simply thaw overnight in your fridge prior reheating on stovetop or microwave!

This detailed recipe ensures every step is clear for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike! Enjoy creating this delightful dish that everyone will love!

Tips and tricks

To create the perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli, start by marinating your chicken. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper will infuse flavor into the meat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking to enhance its taste and tenderness.

Make sure to blanch your broccoli before adding it to the dish. Blanching not only brightens its color but also ensures it remains tender-crisp when mixed with tortellini and sauce. Simply boil for two minutes and then quickly transfer it to ice water to stop further cooking.

When preparing the creamy sauce, use heavy cream for richness and a velvety texture. Combine it with freshly grated parmesan cheese over low heat until melted and smooth. Stir continuously to prevent sticking or burning on the bottom of your pan.

Adjusting seasoning throughout cooking is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli. Start with minimal salt and pepper while cooking each component, then taste at each stage—this way, you can fine-tune flavors as needed.

Finally, consider using different proteins or veggies based on what you have available or prefer. Shrimp or mushrooms can be excellent alternatives to chicken, while spinach or asparagus can add variety instead of broccoli. Play around with these options for new twists on this classic recipe.

Summary

In summary, making Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken & Broccoli requires attention to detail through various steps like marinating chicken and adjusting flavors while cooking each component separately ensures balance throughout every bite! Avoid common mistakes like overcooking tortellini or skipping important steps while implementing clever tips will certainly elevate this comforting meal experience—perfectly complemented by sides such as salads or crusty bread!

 

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