Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini: A Comforting One-Pan Pasta Dinner

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is a rich, creamy, and satisfying dish that delivers gourmet flavor without the fuss. Tender chicken breast, pillowy cheese tortellini, vibrant broccoli, and a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce come together in one skillet to create the ultimate weeknight meal — fast, easy, and packed with flavor.

This dish balances protein, carbs, and veggies beautifully, making it a complete meal on its own. It’s ideal for busy families, meal preppers, or anyone who loves restaurant-quality comfort food at home.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to make this delightful pasta dish, how to tweak it for your preferences, and how to store leftovers like a pro. Let’s dive in!

🍽️ Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini

✅ One-pot wonder: Fewer dishes, less mess.
✅ Hearty and wholesome: Chicken, tortellini, and broccoli make it a complete meal.
✅ Family-approved: Creamy, garlicky, and cheesy — what’s not to love?
✅ Customizable: You can change up the veggies, proteins, or even the pasta.

🧄 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into this flavorful pasta dish:

• 1 lb fresh cheese tortellini (refrigerated kind recommended for best texture)
• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (use real Parmesan for better flavor)
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

🛒 Ingredient Notes & Tips

• Tortellini: You can use refrigerated, frozen, or dried tortellini. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Chicken thighs may be substituted for breasts if you prefer a juicier bite.
• Broccoli: Use fresh for best results, but frozen works in a pinch — just thaw and drain first.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a deeper flavor than garlic powder.

👩‍🍳 How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden brown and cooked through — about 6–8 minutes.
3. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Steam the Broccoli

1. While the chicken cooks, bring a small pot of water to a boil.
2. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2–3 minutes, until bright green and slightly tender.
3. Drain and set aside. (You can also microwave them with a splash of water for a quicker option.)

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

1. In the same pot or a new one, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions (usually 3–5 minutes for fresh tortellini).
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat to medium.
2. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly — do not let it brown.
4. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened (about 3–5 minutes).

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken, tortellini, and broccoli to the skillet.
2. Gently toss everything in the sauce until well-coated and heated through.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. For an extra silky texture, add a splash more cream or a spoonful of pasta water.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a touch of color and freshness.

🧀 Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty dish with:

• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette
• Simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables like zucchini or carrots
• Chilled white wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio

🥶 Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

• While cream-based sauces don’t always freeze well, you can freeze portions for up to 1 month. Reheat slowly to maintain texture.

Reheating:

• Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
• Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

🔄 Variations and Add-Ons

Want to switch things up? Try these ideas:

Protein Variations:

• Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
• Make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.

Vegetable Swaps:

• Try asparagus, peas, or spinach in place of or in addition to broccoli.

Spicy Kick:

• Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for heat.

Herb Boost:

• Stir in fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary to complement the garlic.

🧾 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Calcium: 320mg
• Sodium: Varies depending on cheese and added salt

Note: Actual values depend on portion size and ingredient brands.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes! Frozen tortellini works great — just cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce.

Q2: What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich. Avoid regular milk unless thickened with flour or cornstarch.

Q3: Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a stronger flavor. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.

Q4: How do I make this dish low-carb or keto-friendly?

Replace tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets, and reduce the broccoli slightly. Use full-fat cream and cheese for a keto version.

Q5: Can I meal prep this for the week?

Yes! Cook, cool, and portion the pasta into containers. It reheats well for up to 4 days — perfect for weekday lunches or dinners.

Print

🥄 Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tortellini is the kind of dish that brings comfort to the table with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a casual dinner, or just craving something creamy and indulgent, this one-pan meal delivers on every front.

It’s rich, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable — the type of recipe that’s sure to make its way into your regular dinner rotation. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love with every creamy, cheesy bite.