Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is the kind of comfort food that wraps you in a warm hug with every bite. The cheesy tortellini are perfectly tender, the golden-seared chicken adds savory depth, and the crisp-tender broccoli brings a fresh balance to the rich, velvety garlic Parmesan sauce. This dish is a complete meal—hearty, satisfying, and bursting with flavor.

What makes this tortellini dish stand out is its combination of creamy indulgence and wholesome simplicity. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy enough for guests but easy enough for a weeknight dinner. The contrast of textures—soft pasta, juicy chicken, and snappy broccoli—creates a mouthwatering experience you’ll want to revisit often. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself, this recipe is pure dinnertime bliss.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli

1 lb cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 4–5 minutes for fresh tortellini. Once cooked, drain and set aside. Drizzle with a tiny bit of olive oil to prevent sticking if needed.

Step 2: Steam or Blanch the Broccoli

While the tortellini is cooking, steam or blanch the broccoli until just tender, about 3–4 minutes. It should remain bright green with a slight crunch. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low and add butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken, tortellini, and broccoli to the skillet. Gently toss to coat everything in the sauce. Simmer for 2 more minutes to heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers of this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli can be just as delicious the next day. Allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Freezing is not ideal due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing, but it can be done in a pinch—just be sure to store it in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.

Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving, based on 4 servings total)

Calories: 640
Protein: 35g
Fat: 36g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 520mg
Calcium: 280mg

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on exact ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of tortellini should I use?

Fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini works best for this recipe. Frozen can be used but may need a slightly longer cooking time.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Absolutely. Shrimp or Italian sausage make great alternatives. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add mushrooms or extra veggies.

How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?

If your sauce thickens too much, just stir in a bit more chicken broth, milk, or cream until it reaches your desired consistency.

Is there a lighter version of this recipe?

Yes! Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the Parmesan slightly. You can also swap olive oil for butter to cut down on saturated fat.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare all components ahead and assemble just before serving. Store the sauce separately to prevent the pasta from soaking it all up.

What herbs go well with this dish?

Parsley is classic, but basil, thyme, or a pinch of Italian seasoning also complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or zucchini all blend well with the creamy sauce.

What should I serve with this meal?

A crisp green salad and garlic bread or a warm baguette make great side dishes for a well-rounded dinner.