Step 1: Sear the Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Broccoli
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften but remain bright green.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt and thicken the sauce, about 3-4 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid clumps and ensure a creamy texture.
Step 4: Add the Tortellini and Chicken
- Add the cheese tortellini to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the tortellini are tender and heated through.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring everything together. Simmer until the sauce reaches your desired thickness and all ingredients are hot.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, garlicky, and cheesy flavors in every bite!
Tips for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Tortellini
- Control the Sauce Thickness: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer. For a thinner consistency, add a splash of milk or more chicken broth.
- Cook Broccoli to Preference: For softer broccoli, cook it a bit longer before adding the tortellini. For a slight crunch, follow the timing above.
- Use Fresh Tortellini: Fresh tortellini works best for a quick cook and soft texture, but frozen can be used with a bit longer cooking time.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli is a satisfying and quick weeknight meal, with a rich, creamy sauce and a delightful mix of flavors. Ideal for family dinners or when you’re craving a creamy pasta dish with a twist, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!