Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines the cheesy goodness of tortellini with the savory flavors of chicken and broccoli, all enhanced by a rich garlic parmesan sauce. It's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to become a family favorite. Let's dive into the delicious details!
What Makes This Dish So Appealing?
This dish hits all the right notes: it's comfort food elevated, offering a sophisticated twist on classic pasta. The combination of creamy tortellini, tender chicken, and vibrant broccoli creates a delightful textural and flavor experience. The garlic parmesan sauce ties everything together beautifully, adding a rich and savory depth. Furthermore, it's remarkably versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences and what you have on hand.
How to Make the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli
This recipe requires minimal prep time and cooks quickly, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner. Here's a breakdown of the process:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (16 ounce) package cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken and Broccoli: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, until tender-crisp.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook the Tortellini: While the garlic cooks, cook the tortellini according to package directions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
- Create the Sauce: Stir in the butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra zest, if desired.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked tortellini, cooked chicken, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Serve: Serve immediately and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (PAAs)
This section addresses common questions people have about this dish.
What kind of tortellini is best for this recipe?
Cheese tortellini is the classic choice for this dish, but you can certainly experiment with other fillings, such as spinach and ricotta or meat tortellini. The important thing is to choose a tortellini that you enjoy!
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the skillet. This will prevent it from releasing excess water and making the sauce watery.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, you can use light cream or even milk instead of heavy cream. You can also add more vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to increase the nutritional value. Using whole wheat tortellini can also boost the fiber content.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This recipe is best served fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and broccoli ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Then, when you're ready to serve, simply cook the tortellini and combine everything as directed.
What are some good side dishes to serve with this?
This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but a simple side salad or some crusty bread would be a nice accompaniment.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. Its versatility allows you to customize it to your liking, and the combination of flavors and textures is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Give this recipe a try and experience a comforting and flavorful meal that's sure to become a new favorite.
