Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a comforting and delicious dish that combines succulent chicken, tender cheese-filled pasta, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. This recipe highlights the beautiful blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for family dinners or a cozy night in. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, the ease of this dish will make cooking a pleasure and delight.
Why We Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini stands out for a multitude of reasons. First, it’s a one-pan wonder that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The rich, creamy sauce is an instant flavor enhancer, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet meal. Additionally, the combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a taste that is both robust and comforting. Plus, with the addition of broccoli, you are not only boosting the nutritional content but also adding a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta. It’s a dish that always leaves you satisfied, whether you’re serving it for a gathering or enjoying a quiet night at home.
Ingredients about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
To whip up this delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini
- 2 medium chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 cups fresh broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini Directions
Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Once bubbling, add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until they reach an al dente texture. This should typically take about 3-5 minutes, but make sure you check the package to be certain. After they are cooked, reserve one cup of the pasta water—this will help make your sauce creamy. Drain the tortellini and set it aside.
Next, it’s time to prepare the broccoli. You’ll want to steam the broccoli florets to retain their vibrant color and crisp texture. Doing this for about 3-4 minutes should suffice. Once they are bright green and tender, plunge them into a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process. After they have cooled down, drain and set aside.
Season your cubed chicken with salt and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated for optimum flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and then add the chicken, searing it until cooked through and golden brown, typically around 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Reduce the heat under your skillet and add the butter. Wait for it to melt before adding the minced garlic. Sauté this mixture for about one minute, or until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it since overcooked garlic can turn bitter. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while whisking continuously—this helps prevent any lumps from forming.
Off the heat, introduce the grated Parmesan cheese into the mixture, whisking until it creates a creamy sauce. If the sauce appears thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. You’ll notice how the creamy sauce combines beautifully with the rich flavor of the cheese.
Now, return the cooked chicken, tortellini, and steamed broccoli back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together, coating the chicken and pasta in that luscious sauce. Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini immediately, giving yourself a moment to appreciate how effortlessly this meal came together.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
Serving Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is as pleasurable as preparing it. For the best presentation, consider garnishing your meal with freshly chopped parsley or an additional sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. You can serve it in a large bowl or plate it individually for a more polished setting. Pair this dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread to create a well-rounded meal. As you indulge in your creamy tortellini, take a moment to enjoy the delight of every bite with its blend of savory chicken, rich cheese, and crisp broccoli. You may also want to keep some extra grated Parmesan on the table for those who enjoy a cheesier flavor.
Expert Tips: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
To ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind. First, pay close attention to the cooking time of the tortellini; overcooking can make them mushy. Second, to maintain the vibrant color and crispness of your broccoli, don’t skip the ice water bath once they are steamed. This technique halts the cooking process and locks in the lovely green hue.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic before you add the cream. This will introduce a gentle warmth that elevates the dish without overpowering it. Lastly, if you happen to have any leftovers, only toss the remaining chicken, tortellini, and broccoli with the sauce you need right before serving to keep everything fresh and avoid sogginess.
How to Store Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
If you have any leftovers, storing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is simple and straightforward. Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to 3 days. This makes for a wonderful next-day lunch or dinner option. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to restore its creamy texture if needed.
Variation of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
While the classic Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is delightful as it is, there are plenty of ways to mix things up. For a twist, consider swapping out the chicken for shrimp or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. If you love a bit of heat, try adding some diced sun-dried tomatoes or cherry tomatoes into the mix, as they pop with flavor and add a vibrant color contrast.
You can also experiment with cheese; instead of Parmesan, try using Asiago or Pecorino for a sharper taste. If you want to incorporate even more veggies, consider adding bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. These additions aren’t just great for flavor but can also increase the nutrient content of the dish.
FAQ
What is the main ingredient in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini?
The main ingredient in Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is cheese tortellini, which serves as the comforting base for the chicken, broccoli, and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini! Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as frozen tortellini may require a slightly longer cooking time than fresh.
Is this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free as it contains cheese tortellini made from wheat. However, you can find gluten-free tortellini at many grocery stores as a substitute if needed.
How long does it take to make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini?
This dish usually takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it quick and easy for a weeknight dinner.
Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the individual components ahead of time and store them separately. Combine just before serving to ensure optimal flavor and texture.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces cheese tortellini Can use frozen tortellini, adjust cooking time if needed.
- 2 medium chicken breasts, cubed Season with salt and pepper.
- 2 cups fresh broccoli, cut into florets Steam to retain color and crispness.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Extra for serving if desired.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Be careful not to burn.
- 2 tablespoons butter Used for sautéing.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For searing chicken.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 3-5 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set tortellini aside.
- Steam the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender. Plunge into ice water to stop cooking. Drain and set aside.
- Season cubed chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Gradually pour in heavy cream while whisking to prevent lumps. Add grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until a creamy sauce forms. If too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Return cubed chicken, tortellini, and steamed broccoli to the skillet. Toss gently to coat in the sauce. Serve immediately.
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