I can’t help but get excited whenever a skillet full of creamy chicken tortellini with vibrant broccoli sizzles on the stove. There’s something inherently comforting about tender cheese-filled pasta swirled in a luxuriously rich sauce paired with bite-sized chicken pieces and bright-green florets. As a home cook who loves easy dinners that still feel indulgent, this recipe checks every box. The combination of hearty protein, cheesy tortellini, and crisp-tender broccoli creates a perfect harmony on your fork—creamy, savory, and colorful all at once. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary weeknight into a cozy culinary celebration without requiring hours of prep or fancy techniques.
Whether you’re feeding hungry kids, entertaining friends, or simply craving a soul-warming meal, this one-pot wonder is pure magic. The garlic-scented sauce thickens just right, blanketing each tortellini in a silky blanket of flavor. Every forkful offers a delightful contrast: the slight snap of broccoli against the melt-in-your-mouth pasta, all brought together by juicy chicken and a hint of Italian seasoning. Best of all, it’s beginner-friendly—about 15 minutes to prep, 25 minutes to cook, and voila! Dinner is served. I’ve lost count of how many evenings this dish has rescued me when the calendar looks too packed. Trust me, once you taste that first creamy bite, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY CHICKEN TORTELLINI WITH BROCCOLI
Every memorable meal starts with quality ingredients, and this creamy chicken tortellini with broccoli is no exception. Below are the stars of the show, each bringing its own flavor, texture, and purpose to create a cohesive, comforting dish.
- Fresh broccoli florets
Adds a bright pop of color and a tender-crisp texture. Steaming or blanching the broccoli preserves its nutrients and gives a mild, earthy bite that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Provides lean protein and a meaty, savory base. Cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces ensures even cooking and allows each piece to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Olive oil
Serves as the cooking medium for browning the chicken and sautéing the garlic. Its fruity aroma and healthy fats help develop a flavorful foundation in the skillet.
- Salt and black pepper
Essential seasonings that enhance every component. They balance the creaminess, highlight the garlic’s bite, and bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and broccoli.
- Minced garlic
Brings a fragrant punch and depth to the sauce. Sautéing garlic releases its natural oils and infuses the entire dish with savory, aromatic goodness.
- Chicken broth
Forms the thin base of the sauce, adding savory, umami richness. It also helps deglaze the pan, lifting flavorful bits from the skillet’s bottom.
- Heavy cream
Creates the luxuriously smooth and velvety backbone of the sauce. It envelops each tortellini piece and vegetable in creamy indulgence.
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Melts into the sauce for an extra layer of tangy, nutty flavor. It also helps thicken the sauce slightly, giving it that perfect cling.
- Cheese tortellini
Offers a tender, cheese-filled pasta pocket that bursts with creamy goodness when you bite into it. It’s the heart of this comforting one-pot meal.
- Butter
Finishes the sauce with a glossy sheen and smooth richness. It also helps bind the Italian seasoning and sauce together for perfect coating.
- Italian seasoning
A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme that adds aromatic warmth and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
- Chopped parsley (optional garnish)
Sprinkles a fresh, herbal note on top, brightening the dish visually and flavor-wise.
HOW TO MAKE CREAMY CHICKEN TORTELLINI WITH BROCCOLI
Ready to bring all these ingredients together into one irresistible skillet? Follow these steps for a foolproof, creamy, and flavorful result.
1. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets in a pot of boiling water for about 3–4 minutes until they turn bright green and become tender-crisp. Immediately drain and set aside to keep that perfect crunch.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Season generously with salt and black pepper, then cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful to keep the garlic moving so it doesn’t burn and turn bitter.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the broth up to a gentle simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly for richer flavor.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.
6. Add the cooked chicken and steamed broccoli back into the skillet. Stir gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce, ensuring each piece is heated through.
7. While the sauce simmers, cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta well to avoid diluting the sauce, then transfer the tortellini directly into the skillet.
8. Stir in the butter and Italian seasoning until the butter melts, infusing the dish with a glossy finish and herbal aroma. Mix thoroughly so every tortellini pocket is luxuriously coated.
9. Serve hot, topping each portion with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you love a fresh, green garnish.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY CHICKEN TORTELLINI WITH BROCCOLI
Enhancing the presentation and pairing this dish with complementary sides can elevate your meal from cozy to truly memorable. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply treating yourself to a special dinner, these serving ideas will help you enjoy every delicious bite.
- Serve with garlic bread toasted to golden perfection. The crisp exterior and soft, buttery center make the ideal tool for scooping up any leftover creamy sauce on your plate.
- Pair it alongside a crisp mixed greens salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The fresh, acidic notes of lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber balance the dish’s richness and add a refreshing crunch.
- Present in shallow pasta bowls for a restaurant-style experience. Nestle the tortellini and chicken in the center, drizzle any extra sauce around, and finish with a dusting of Parmesan and fresh parsley for an elegant look.
- Offer a small dish of red pepper flakes at the table. This lets diners customize the heat level, adding just the right kick to complement the creamy, cheesy flavors.
HOW TO STORE CREAMY CHICKEN TORTELLINI WITH BROCCOLI
Leftovers of this creamy chicken tortellini with broccoli are truly a blessing, especially when you want a quick, satisfying meal the next day. Proper storage ensures you maintain the rich flavor, creamy texture, and vibrant color without any sogginess or loss of taste.
- Store in airtight containers once the dish cools to room temperature. This prevents moisture loss and keeps both the pasta and broccoli from drying out. Place the containers in the fridge for up to three days.
- For longer storage, portion the meal into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Keep in the freezer for up to two months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- To reheat on the stovetop, transfer the leftovers to a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Stir gently until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the broccoli.
- If using a microwave, heat in short bursts—about 30 seconds each—stirring in between. Add a teaspoon of water or cream to prevent the sauce from tightening up and keep the tortellini tender.
CONCLUSION
After the hustle and bustle of daily life, whipping up this creamy chicken tortellini with vibrant broccoli offers a true taste of home. With only a handful of simple ingredients—fresh broccoli, tender chicken, cheese tortellini, a splash of chicken broth, heavy cream, and a touch of Parmesan—you’ll transform your kitchen into a cozy trattoria in under an hour. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, the straightforward steps guide you from steaming the broccoli to simmering a luscious sauce, ensuring that every bite is perfectly balanced. The ease of this recipe, combined with its comforting flavors and visual appeal, makes it a go-to option for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or whenever you need a delicious pick-me-up.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later—you’ll want to revisit these instructions whenever the craving for a filling, creamy one-pot meal strikes. And don’t forget: there’s a helpful FAQ section below to answer any lingering questions about substitutions, prep tips, or storing leftovers. I’d love to hear how your dinner turned out! If you have comments, questions, or need troubleshooting advice, drop a note below. Your feedback helps me continue sharing recipes that bring joy—one pan at a time.
Creamy Chicken Tortellini with Broccoli
Description
This creamy dish combines tender chicken, cheese tortellini, and bright broccoli in a rich sauce, creating a delightful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Begin by preparing the broccoli. Steam or blanch the broccoli florets in a pot of boiling water for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the broth to a simmer.
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Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
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Add the cooked chicken and broccoli to the skillet. Stir to combine and allow everything to heat through.
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While the sauce is heating, cook the cheese tortellini according to package instructions. Drain well and add them to the skillet.
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Stir in the butter and Italian seasoning until everything is well mixed and the butter has melted.
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Serve the creamy chicken tortellini topped with additional Parmesan cheese and garnished with chopped parsley, if desired.
Note
- Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- This dish can be made with other vegetables such as spinach or peas.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
