Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a delightful dish that combines tender cheese tortellini with creamy garlic parmesan sauce, perfectly seared chicken, and vibrant fresh broccoli. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it a standout meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Creamy and Flavorful: The garlic parmesan sauce adds a rich flavor that elevates the dish.
- Versatile: Great for family dinners or entertaining guests; it fits any occasion.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli.
- Kid-Friendly: A tasty way to include vegetables in your children’s meals.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather all necessary tools to streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Steamer basket
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the tortellini, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Skillet: Ideal for searing chicken and making the creamy sauce in one pan.
- Whisk: Helps incorporate the parmesan cheese smoothly into the sauce.
Ingredients
Tender cheese tortellini tossed in creamy garlic parmesan sauce with perfectly seared chicken and vibrant fresh broccoli.
For the Tortellini Dish
- Cheese tortellini
- Chicken breast
- Fresh broccoli
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic cloves
- Butter
- Olive oil
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
Step 1: Cook the Tortellini
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
- Cook cheese tortellini according to package directions until al dente.
- Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
- Steam fresh broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
- Immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking, then drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- Season chicken breast cubes with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken until golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Slowly pour in heavy cream, whisking constantly.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
- Remove skillet from heat.
- Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
- Return chicken to skillet.
- Add cooked tortellini and steamed broccoli.
- Gently toss everything together until well coated with sauce.
- Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
Serving Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini can elevate your meal experience. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes for a complete dining experience.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds color and a burst of flavor.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Serve slices of garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
Enjoy with a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad complements the richness of the dish and adds crunch.
Serve with Grated Cheese
- Extra Parmesan: Offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese for those who love an extra cheesy touch.
Add a Squeeze of Lemon
- Lemon Wedge: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
To achieve the best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini possible, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality parmesan can significantly improve taste.
- Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Cook tortellini just until al dente to maintain texture in the dish.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired creaminess is reached.
- Sear Chicken Properly: Ensure chicken is seared well for depth of flavor; aim for golden-brown color on all sides.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
Complementing your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini with the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some tasty suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up leftover sauce, this classic favorite is easy to prepare.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender adds color and nutrition.
- Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil brings brightness to your plate.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a crunchy texture that pairs well with creamy pasta.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, olives, and cheeses offers variety and flavor.
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly gives a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tortellini.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking can be tricky, especially when making delicious dishes like Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. It helps adjust the sauce’s consistency.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken. Cook just until golden brown and cooked through for juicy bites.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly; sauté it until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Don’t forget to season each component, including the chicken and the sauce, for maximum flavor.
- Using Low-Quality Cheese: For the best creamy texture and taste, opt for high-quality Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated options.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
- Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat with a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini that might help you.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just cook according to package instructions without thawing.
What can I add to Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
How can I make this dish lighter?
To lighten it up, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reducing cheese.
Is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and makes great leftovers for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a delightful dish that’s both comforting and versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Give it a try, and enjoy a meal that brings joy and satisfaction!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a creamy and delicious dish that brings together tender cheese tortellini, perfectly seared chicken, and vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a rich garlic parmesan sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings, offering a comforting meal that everyone will love. With its balance of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite. In just 35 minutes, you can serve an impressive dish that’s not only satisfying but also nutritious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- Cheese tortellini
- Chicken breast
- Fresh broccoli
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic cloves
- Butter
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the cheese tortellini according to package directions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Steam fresh broccoli florets until bright green and crisp-tender, then set aside.
- Season chicken breast cubes with salt and pepper. Sear in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Gradually whisk in heavy cream followed by Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Return chicken to the skillet and add cooked tortellini and steamed broccoli, tossing gently to coat in the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
